When you first start out in business, it’s important to save money wherever possible. However, it can be challenging to know where to cut corners when you don’t have a good idea of your profit margin yet. The following tips can give you some inspiration, no matter where you’re at in the start-up process:

Determine what is a must-have and which things you simply prefer to have. To avoid long-term debt, discipline yourself to save for the latter items rather than buying them on credit.

Work from home if possible. This eliminates having double the expenses for mortgage or rent, utilities, trash pick-up, and other essential services needed to operate a business.

Start with inexpensive or free advertising. While you don’t want to spam your friends or followers, no one should mind you sharing details of your new business a few times. Better yet, ask them to do the same on their social media platforms. 

Barter your services. Entrepreneurs usually like to support one another. Rather than spending limited funds, consider trading a skill you have for a skill you need to get your business going.

Buy office furniture, computers, and other higher-priced necessities at second-hand retailers. You can save significant money when you buy slightly used items over brand new ones. 

Cut the learning curve and reduce costly mistakes by joining a trade organization or online forums where you can learn from others in your industry.

With careful attention to what you’re spending, your business start-up costs don’t have to put you in debt.