Seven common startup challenges and how to solve them

Seven common startup challenges and how to solve them

Put your startup on the right track by following the tips in our guide

Starting a business requires significant time and effort, an adequate funding source and an ability to navigate risks with ease. So, the entrepreneurial lifestyle isn't something to jump into lightly.

With the right skill set, though, startup founders can find success. The University of Cincinnati's 1819 Innovation Hub is dedicated to helping founders thrive by equipping them with the knowledge, connections and mindset needed to launch a startup venture.

Below are seven challenges you'll likely face when launching a startup - along with in-depth resources for overcoming them.

1819 visitors speaking in a meeting room. Photo/Andrew Higley

1. Raising money

It's challenging to successfully grow a business if you haven't secured enough funding. Read our team's comprehensive guide to discover potential funding sources for your startup.

How to raise money for your startup

2. Locating mentors

Aspiring startup founders often look for mentorship when they launch businesses. Consider our tips to find wise and knowledgeable mentors for your entrepreneurial journey.

How to find startup mentors for your business

3. Increasing brand awareness

Building positive brand awareness is necessary for anyone hoping to scale a small business. Our guide offers tips for how - and when - to consider investing in brand awareness strategies.

How to increase brand awareness for your startup

4. Managing time

With an unrelenting array of tasks washing over entrepreneurs, it's tough to prioritize one's workload. Read on for tips about focusing on what matters - from top business needs to your mental and physical health.

An entrepreneur's guide to time management

5. Scaling a startup

As you scale a startup venture, you'll almost certainly encounter pressing questions. Our guide will explain which questions are worth asking for the long-term success of a small business.

5 questions to ask when scaling a business

6. Adapting to change

Change is a constant in the entrepreneurial world, and those who tactfully embrace it are most likely to succeed. We'll offer methods for responsibly dealing with a changing business environment.

6 tips for adapting to change as an entrepreneur

7. Staying motivated

Staying motivated as an entrepreneur can be challenging, especially during stressful or difficult situations. Keep reading to discover ways to avoid burnout and maintain a sense of ambition.

6 tips for staying motivated as an entrepreneur

1819 is home to countless startup resources. Photo/Gregory Glevicky

In summary

Here at the University of Cincinnati, we get it: launching a startup is laden with challenges. That's why we've invested in a robust entrepreneurship program at the Carl H. Lindner College of Business and set up a dedicated Center for Entrepreneurship to train founders.

On top of that, the 1819 Innovation Hub is home to the Venture Lab startup accelerator program, the region's largest and most advanced makerspace and an array of industry experts willing to train and mentor startup founders.

At UC, you'll find all the tools needed to help your small business succeed. We wish you luck as you begin this exciting entrepreneurial journey and would be delighted to help you along the way.

Featured image at top: UC experts offer tips about starting a new business. Photo/Gregory Glevicky

Become a Bearcat

Have aspirations to become an entrepreneur one day? Whether you're a first-generation student or from a family of Bearcats, UC is proud to support you at every step along your journey. We want to make sure you succeed - and feel right at home. Apply today.

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