graphic designing business plan

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

How to Start a Graphic Design Business

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Deciding to start a business is a big step for any entrepreneur. However, what follows are many more steps to successfully launch and grow your business.

For those with an eye for design and the technical skills, you may be wondering how to start a graphic design business. In this guide, we’ll break down all of the steps you need to know to take your graphic design business from idea to reality. Let’s get started.

Looking for tools to help grow your business?

Tell us where you're at in your business journey, and we'll direct you to the experience that fits.

on NerdWallet's secure site

Step 1: Choose a name and business entity

The first step in starting a graphic design business is to choose a name and business entity.

When choosing a business name , you want to make sure you pick something that represents your personality while also making it clear to potential customers what type of business you operate. Once you have some ideas in mind, you’ll need to make sure they’re available for use. Searching your secretary of state’s business portal, Google, and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office are all good places to start. You’ll also want to make sure any domains or social media handles are available for your business name, as well.

Once you’ve chosen your business name, it’s time to choose the business entity you’d like for your business. This is a crucial step, as the business entity you choose will dictate how you pay taxes, your degree of personal liability, and how to structure your business. We recommend consulting with a business attorney at this stage if you’re unsure how to choose. Some common options are:

Sole proprietorship: A sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure you can have. While they’re easy to set up, though, you will not have any personal protections in the event that your business runs into legal or financial troubles—you and your business are seen as the same entity. You will also file business taxes on your personal return.

LLC : An LLC is a popular option because they’re fairly simple to set up and they provide the business owners with a degree of personal protection. You can choose to be taxed either as a corporation or pass-through entity.

Corporation : You may also choose to structure your business as a corporation. The most common types are S-corps and C-corps, and how you’re taxed and the structure of your business will depend on which type you choose.

Once you have decided on your name and business entity, you can register your business with your state. This will likely be done with your secretary of state’s office. Keep in mind, you typically don’t have to register a sole proprietorship; however, if you want to operate under a business name different from your own, legal name, you will have to file a DBA, or “doing business as.”

Step 2: Choose your niche

As a graphic designer, there are a number of specialties you can have. While it may be tempting to do it all—and you may need to be open to accepting a variety of projects as you grow your customer base—placing yourself in a niche market can be a smart decision.

Some niche graphic design ideas include:

Logo design

Brochure design

Poster design

Brand strategy

Infographics

You likely already have specific expertise in a certain area, or you may just enjoy one facet of graphic design the most. Either way, once you’ve established that there is demand for this type of work, keep this niche in mind while making your other business decisions.

Step 3: Write a business plan

No matter what kind of business you’re starting, you should always write a business plan . Even if no one else ever sees it, your business plan will provide a roadmap to help keep you on track through the launch and all-important early years of your business. However, should you seek outside funding or an investor down the road, you will also need to provide your business plan to prove that your business is worth investing in.

Your business plan will cover a lot of information—from a market analysis and competitor research to an overview of what services you’ll provide, financial projections, and more. You should outline how much startup money you’ll need to launch your business, and where this will come from (i.e. your own savings, friends and family, or business loans).

This is also a good time to set your prices and make sure they’re in line with what similar graphic designers charge. You’ll also want to decide if you want to charge an hourly or per-project rate. Researching your market will help you settle on an appropriate rate, but this Bonsai rate explorer can also help.

Step 4: Organize your marketing materials

In order to grow your business and find more clients, you’ll want to start formalizing your business through marketing materials. Marketing materials can help spread the word about your business, showcase your portfolio, and give prospective clients a way to contact you and learn more about your experience. Here are some marketing materials to consider.

One of the most important marketing materials you can have as a small business owner is a website.

As a graphic designer, your website is a great way to show what you’re capable of producing for your clients. Include a portfolio of your past work, whether for clients, an agency, or your own passion projects, as well as the types of projects you’re willing to work on, contact information, positive customer testimonials, and more.

Your graphic design background will make designing a website simple, but don’t get too hung up on the details. Creating a simple website that clearly shows off your work should be plenty to start attracting clients.

Social media

Beyond a business website, you’ll also want to set up social media profiles for your business. Because graphic design is so visual, you’ll want to choose the platforms that lend themselves to images over text, such as Instagram.

Additionally, you should consider creating a LinkedIn profile as well to connect with your network, showcase your work, and find prospective clients.

Step 5: Build your client base

With your business officially registered, your niche defined, and your business website created, you’re ready to start finding work.

Some ideas to help you find your first clients include:

Sign up for job boards

Join freelance graphic design groups on Facebook

Register for a freelancing site such as Upwork or Fiverr

Start networking with other creatives in your city

Attend industry events

All of these options can help you find your first few clients, and from there your business will likely grow organically. By delivering your projects on time and to your clients’ specifications, you’ll slowly but surely build a reputation that will speak for itself. And never underestimate the power of word-of-mouth marketing. Make sure anyone in your network—even people who aren’t in your industry—know that you’ve gone into business for yourself, so they can recommend you to their networks and further expand your reach.

Step 6: Separate your business and personal finances

As you start taking on clients, you’ll need somewhere to put your business income. While you may be tempted to use your personal bank account, this would be a mistake. Keeping your business and personal finances separate serves some very important purposes. First of all, it will make filing your taxes much easier if you don’t have to sort through every credit card charge or bank transaction to figure out which were for your business. Second, keeping this separation will help protect your personal assets in the event that your business gets into trouble.

Explore your business checking account options to find the right one for you, paying close attention to maintenance fees, transaction allowances, account minimums, and more. Next, find a business credit card that will reward you for spending (whether that’s in miles, cash back, or another rewards structure).

It’s also worth looking into accounting software to help manage your finances and invoice clients. These self-employed accounting software options are a good place to start.

Step 7: Consider your financing options

As you take on more clients and your business grows, you may need to expand in a meaningful way to keep up with demand. Maybe you need to hire some employees so you can take on more jobs or you need to invest in some pricey equipment to keep up with the latest technology, for example.

If this expansion costs more than you can manage on your own but would make a big difference in your bottom line, you may look into a business loan or other financing option.

When you’re just starting out, it will be difficult to qualify for traditional business loans; however, once you’ve been in business for a year or more and have positive financials to show for it, you’ll have more favorable options.

Here are some options you may want to explore:

Business line of credit: A business line of credit is a useful financing tool for any business owner. In fact, even if you don’t have financing needs right away, it’s good to have in your back pocket for any emergency cash flow issues or time-sensitive opportunities. A line of credit will provide you with a set amount of funds that you can draw against for any business-related purpose. You’ll only pay interest on the amount you use, and once you repay it, your balance will typically reset to its original value and you can continue to dip into it as needed.

Equipment financing: If your graphic design business needs new computers or other equipment to help you complete your work, equipment financing may be an ideal solution. You’ll take a quote for the equipment you want to buy to a lender, and if approved, you will receive the funds to make the purchase. The equipment will also serve as collateral, so if you fail to repay the loan, the lender can seize the equipment and liquidate it to recoup their losses.

Invoice financing: As a graphic designer, you may work on an invoice basis, where you send an invoice to your client once you’ve completed the work they requested. If this is the case, waiting for those invoices to be paid can put a strain on your cash flow. With invoice financing, a lender will front you a percentage (typically up to 85%) of your unpaid invoices so you get cash when you need it. Then once your customer pays, you repay the loan plus the lender fees.

Start Your Dream Business

The bottom line

When you’re learning how to start a graphic design business, all the steps that you need to take to get started can seem overwhelming. However, taking the time to complete each step will help ensure you’re truly prepared—financially and otherwise—to start a business in the first place. By taking your time and doing your due diligence, you’re sure to start a graphic design business that can grow into a successful enterprise.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

On a similar note...

This post may contain affiliate links. See our affiliate disclosure for more.

How to Start a Graphic Design Business in 10 Steps

BIG NEWS! We just released The Freelance Files , a collection of professional done-for-you email scripts, contracts, invoices, and more for smarter freelancing. The first 50 customers, save 50% with this link .

1. Find your first graphic design clients

2. set your pricing, 3. name your graphic design business, 4. build a basic website, 5. develop a simple business plan, 6. communicate with your clients, 7. deliver high-quality projects on-time, 8. write and send professional invoices, 9. collect payments from your design clients, 10. ask for referrals, repeat steps 5-10 regularly in order to grow.

Starting a graphic design business can be an exhilarating and exciting adventure whether you’re hoping to work for yourself full-time or just make a little extra money from an on-the-side design business.

And it’s pretty straightforward too if you’re willing to put in the work.

I’ve coached thousands of graphic designers over the last 10+ years through this blog , our podcast , and our mastermind group . So in this article, I’ll take everything I’ve learned after a decade of coaching to help you know exactly what to do to start a graphic design business . I’ve broken the process into 10 steps, which you’ll find below.

• Always start with finding clients—never anything else.
• Develop a solid business plan that includes your pricing structure, marketing strategy, and financial projections.
• Build a strong online presence and create a professional portfolio that showcases your skills and expertise.
• Establish relationships with other designers, freelancers, and industry professionals to build a strong network and generate referrals.
• Focus on providing exceptional customer service and building positive relationships with clients to ensure repeat business and ongoing success.

You might find it surprising, but my first step is to secure design clients.

What about crafting your portfolio, deciding on a business name, or obtaining a business license, you might ask?

Indeed, these elements are crucial.

However, I’ve observed many designers get lost in these preliminary tasks and burn out before they even engage with potential clients. Initiating a graphic design venture can become daunting if you start with the minutiae of business operations.

Therefore, we’ll kick off your design business on a positive note by securing your initial design clients. Once you have a few clients ready to compensate you for your work, you’ll be amazed at the surge of excitement, energy, and drive within you.

With this newfound momentum, you’ll find yourself well-equipped to address the remaining tasks.

Therefore, goal #1: find graphic design clients .

Where do you find graphic design clients?

If you’re a beginner at small business, you might be asking yourself: Where can I even begin to find my first design clients?

Lucky for you, finding graphic design clients has literally never been easier. There are hundreds of freelance job sites around the web to help you find exactly the kinds of clients you’re looking for.

For example, sites like Fiverr offer a huge marketplace of entry-level clients that can get you started when learning how to start a graphic design business. These most likely aren’t the kinds of clients you want to work with forever (although some may be), but they’re a great way to get some experience, a few portfolio pieces, some cash, and some confidence.

You can also find some nice entry-level work on sites like Upwork . Upwork is one of the most popular freelance marketplaces in the world and you’ll find access to thousands of graphic design jobs there.

To take action: here are 2 of our favorite sites to find design clients fast:

SolidGigs’ team of fellow freelancers combs through thousands of freelance job boards every weekday and posts the very best leads to your custom inbox.

You can learn more about SolidGigs here .

Next up is the largest freelance services marketplace in the world (at least I think it is). It’s called Upwork and lots of freelancers have built their own six-figure businesses on the back of this powerful platform, including this guy .

In the beginning, don’t be too picky

When you’re in the early stages, you might encounter seasoned freelancers and “experts” advising you to be choosy about your clientele.

They can afford such selectiveness, can’t they? After all, they’ve been at the helm of their small businesses for years, with client acquisition now a routine matter for them.

But you? You’re in immediate need of graphic design clients.

In the beginning, it’s wise to accept any reasonable graphic design work at a fair price. The potential of these initial projects is often underestimated.

At the very least, they’ll furnish you with confidence, experience, and valuable additions to your portfolio. In the best-case scenario, they might evolve into enduring, profitable business connections or serve as gateways to additional clientele.

Your client roster can be refined over time. However, for now, avoid being overly selective to the point where your graphic design venture never takes flight. This very trap has led to the downfall of many aspiring designers.

Now, let’s dive into the topic of your pricing structure.

Are you thinking of billing your clients on an hourly basis, per project, or according to the value you provide?

For those just beginning, hourly rates are straightforward and quite prevalent, but you might consider other pricing strategies as you gain more ground.

Figuring out what to charge graphic design clients

Deciding on your rates can be daunting. To assist, we’ve developed a complimentary calculator to help pinpoint your ideal charge.

But let’s be real—if you’re at a complete loss about your rates, just pick a starting point. Should a prospect hesitate at your quote, you might adjust downward slightly. Conversely, if there’s no negotiation from the client’s side, consider increasing your rate for the next project.

You’ll eventually find a sweet spot for your pricing. Make it a habit to reassess your rates regularly. You might be surprised at how much you can command as you progress.

With a few clients under your belt and the confidence for the long journey ahead, it’s time to establish the foundation of your solid small business, beginning with a thoughtfully chosen business name.

Deciding between using your own name or creating a business name

A common initial query for anyone starting in graphic design might be:

“Should I use my own name, or should I craft a unique business name?”

The straightforward answer is: it’s not overly critical. Choose something that resonates with you. Remember, you can always opt for a change down the line.

Delving deeper, the decision warrants some consideration.

While my suggestion is to select a name and forge ahead (bearing in mind that changes are feasible, albeit not ideal, but certainly manageable), the process of choosing your graphic design business’s name might necessitate more deliberation.

The name you settle on can influence various aspects of your design business, such as:

• Your potential to command higher rates for your design work.
• The ease with which people recall your brand.
• The type of design projects you’ll attract, including the industry, quality, and magnitude.
• The likelihood of being recommended by others.
• Your legal ability to operate without violating copyright or trademark laws.
• And much more…

My top advice for naming your graphic design business

To keep the process straightforward, here’s my prime piece of advice for naming:

Prioritize simplicity: ensure it’s easy to pronounce, remember, and spell

It’s tempting to get overly intricate, witty, or inventive with your design business’s name. Instead, aim for simplicity. Your business name should be easily articulated, spelled, and recalled by potential clients.

Make sure it’s available on the web

Before you fall in love with any name too much, you should check its availability around the web. Are the social media channels you hope to use (if any) available? Is there a domain that works well for your design company name?

In order to keep your ideas safe from domain squatters use something like Bluehost or Dreamhost  to check domain availability without risking it being parked or squatted.

Ensure you personally love it & it speaks to the vision of your company

While I really don’t want you to get paralyzed by the task of choosing a domain name (see the next point) it’s also critical that you feel good about your name and it speaks to the vision of your graphic design business.

You’re going to have to say the name of your business a lot. You’ll have to type it. You’ll have to speak it out loud. And if you feel silly about it or have to explain the context or feel the need to pronounce it for people, that’s going to get old really fast.

Don’t get paralyzed by decision

The biggest error I see people make in this regard is getting stuck on all the possible graphic design business names that are available.

The ultimate enemy here is indecision. Because while this is an important decision for your business, getting back to the revenue-driving decisions is far more critical at this stage.

For more help, you can also download my business-naming workbook which will walk you through an easy-to-follow process for naming your design business successfully.

The next step is to build a basic website. I say basic because, just like naming your design business, it’s easy to get stuck or paralyzed by the seemingly overwhelming task of building your website. That’s why you can use an AI website generator to speed up the process of designing a website but if not you can use other tools.

Lucky for you, there are loads of very easy-to-use and affordable website builders to build your first portfolio website .

My top beginner website builder recommendations

Here are my personal top picks. None of them requires you to learn to code and they’re all affordable.

• Wix is an easy-to-use website builder with hundreds of beautifully designed templates to choose from—all with drag-and-drop functionality. They’ve even got quite a few portfolio-centric options to get you started.
• WordPress may require a little bit more technical know-how (still no coding required) but it definitely gives you more flexibility in the long run. And because it continues to be the most-used website builder on the Internet, there are millions of tutorials to help you if you get stuck.
• Pixpa is designed specifically for creatives and includes cool add-ons like a client-proofing area or a simple gallery feature.

The “minimum viable” portfolio site

For years, I have preached the importance of what I call a minimum viable portfolio .

As a designer you care very much about how things look, making it far too easy to overdo things, keep adding more and more, editing, adjusting tweaking.

Which often leads to never publishing your portfolio. Which means no clients. And no graphic design business.

The better path (the one I hope you’ll take) is to aim for a “minimum-viable” portfolio.

The term “minimum-viable” answers the question “what is the least I can do to prove my portfolio can generate sales?”

Then start with that. It doesn’t mean, as you grow your business you can’t revisit your site and optimize it for getting more clients ? You can. And you should.

For now, your mission is to learn how to start a graphic design business and get it off the ground. All the fancy stuff can come later once you have revenue coming in.

Once you’ve got a few clients in the door, you’ve named your business, and you’ve got a minimum-viable portfolio site, you can finally start thinking more strategically about how to start a graphic design business the right way.

In my experience, the best next step is to develop a business plan .

Why isn’t that the first step on the list? Because I didn’t want you to get stuck forever in the “planning” stage only to never actually make it to the executing stage. Far too many design businesses (and businesses of all kinds) get lost in the planning stage and never see the light of day.

But not your design business. No. You are going to be different.

You only need a very basic business plan. In fact, it doesn’t need to be more than one page long. You can follow our freelance business plan template here and fill it out in less than 30 minutes.

For an even shorter business plan, grab a piece of paper or a computer and answer the following questions:

• What services will my design business provide?
• Who is the ideal client for my graphic design business?
• How much will my design business charge for the work I do?
• What are your monthly design business revenue goals?
• How many clients do I need each month to hit my revenue goals?
• Where/how will I find new design clients? Or how will I retain current design clients?

Answering these and similar questions will help you maintain traction and gain momentum when getting started.

One thing you’d find out extremely quickly is you have to wear a lot of different hats. Not only are you a graphic designer, but you’re also the bookkeeper, the marketing manager, and the account manager.

Communicating regularly and effectively with your clients is an absolute must. Luckily, you can interact with them in various ways; some examples are phone calls, emails, direct messaging on social media, and webinars.

Make your lines of communication open to nurture leads and clients. You can set up a toll-free number or a business email to make your graphic design business look more professional to prospects. Remember that addressing client concerns outright with a positive approach is key to good customer service.

If you want to exercise good communication, keep in mind that the clients are the people who keep your business afloat. The freelance designers who I see succeed the fastest are the ones that realize their clients aren’t some burden they have to deal with, but an essential and wonderful part of their graphic design business.

If you find yourself overwhelmed with all the client communication, try using a CRM tool to keep track of all client interactions.

If being unprofessional in your communication methods doesn’t kill your business, then failing to deliver on your promises will.

This is another huge fail-point for many designers because they mistakenly think the hardest work is finding design clients when in reality, it can often be more difficult to manage multiple projects and always deliver on time.

Project management tools can help you manage your projects and tasks, keeping you on track and ensuring you give your design clients a positive experience every time.

This can be especially important in the early days of your graphic design business since a few bad reviews or bad word-of-mouth reports around your local city could signify a real setback for you.

Once you’ve delivered your work to your clients and you’re ready to get paid , you’ll want to create and send a professional invoice.

The most basic option is to just write an invoice in Google Docs, Word, or InDesign and send it over via email. But I recommend eventually using a professional invoice tool —where you can create and send invoices quickly and efficiently.

Plus, using tools like these mean your clients can pay directly from the invoice when they open it on their computer. And, if after a while, your client forgets to pay the invoice, many of these apps will remind them for you automatically.

When you’re first learning how to start a graphic design business, the idea of doing work you love every day can be exhilarating.

In fact, depending on how much you hate your day job , you might be hoping this business can be an escape from your cubicle into work you actually care about. But if you get so caught up in the day-to-day creative work that you forget to manage your business properly, you won’t be in business for long.

Indeed, a business that doesn’t generate income essentially remains a hobby, underlining the paramount importance of securing payments.

Easing the Awkwardness of Payment Collection

Requesting payment can feel uncomfortable, particularly for those new to the business world. To mitigate this discomfort, consider two straightforward strategies:

1. Normalize the Payment

It’s essential to recognize that exchanging money for services rendered is a standard business practice, occurring daily across various industries. Launching a graphic design venture is no exception.

Your clients routinely pay for services, whether it’s shipping costs with FedEx, electrical repairs, or even the weekly office donuts. It’s all part of conducting business. By treating payment collection as a routine aspect of your operations, you’ll help normalize the process for both parties.

2. Simplify the Payment Process for Clients

Difficulty in receiving payments might indicate a cumbersome payment process for your clients. Given that people often juggle busy schedules or may procrastinate, simplifying the payment process can significantly benefit both you and your clients.

Employing an online payment tool that facilitates direct bank transfers can streamline transactions. As your business evolves, you might consider setting up recurring invoices or securely storing client credit card details for seamless future payments.

With more experience, you could even prioritize payment collection by requiring it before delivering the final product. This approach can prevent protracted disputes or the hassle of pursuing overdue payments, though it’s advisable to adopt this practice once your business is more established.

No matter how many times I ask business owners what the most common way of getting new business is, I always get the same response:

Word of mouth .

Asking your graphic design clients for referrals can be a really great way to establish yourself. If you’re not sure where to get started, you can download our referral-generating email template .

But asking for referrals for your graphic design business shouldn’t be awkward or difficult. In fact, with a lot of practice you might even get good enough to ask for referrals throughout your process without ever blatantly begging for them .

Remember, part of the challenge of learning how to start a design business is ensuring you have continuous design work every month (not just this month) and referrals are a fantastic way to keep the client pool full.

This brings me to my last (unofficial) step in this process:

If you want your graphic design business to grow, you’ll need to constantly be making adjustments to your pricing, your client communications processes, your invoicing habits, and lots more.

That’s the fun of building a small business.

It’s like any great design project: it takes a lot of brainstorming, tweaking, adjusting, and refining. It’s a lot of hard work.

But you can do it. I know you can. And we’re here to help. Subscribe to our newsletter and join our FB mastermind group for added support and we’ll help you wherever we can along the way.

Keep the conversation going...

Over 10,000 of us are having daily conversations over in our free Facebook group and we'd love to see you there. Join us!

Freelancing Growth

Written by Preston Lee

Editor at millo.co.

Preston Lee is the founder of Millo where he and his team have been helping freelancers thrive for over a decade. His advice has been featured by Entrepreneur , Inc , Forbes , Adobe, and many more.

Preston's Articles

Reviewed & edited by Adam Wright , at Millo.

At Millo, we strive to publish only the best, most trustworthy and reliable content for freelancers. You can learn more by reviewing our editorial policy .

Comments from the community

This is a very helpful article. It covers all the questions and doubts every beginner has.

Great Guide Greer!

Starting a new business …it’s not an easy task but you have written what exactly required to start a design business.

All these things are matter but the main thing is to know how the successful business owners like to shape the plans. We should check their footprints and follow –up them.

I think the best business plan is your words….

Keep up the awesome work!!!

Great and helpful blog to everyone. Thanks a lot for sharing this amazing article.

I’ve started freelancing a few months ago and a lot of what you wrote resonates with me. Especially the bit about finding good clients that you work well with.

I was also curious about how you get briefs from your clients. Do you have a template you get them to fill out or do you work with what they give you? I have recently found myself doing a lot of extra work which I feel is not on the initial brief but some how my client feels it is. It’s especially around brand ID stuff. Dose anyone find this difficult as well? Do you have any tips how I can ease my pain? Especially when there are multiple stakeholders in place who all feel like they require sign off, on every aspect of things.

Thanks for this, also i really appreciate those tools you recommended

thank you so much ,it helped me!

Very helpful .Thanks for sharing ☺

Hello April, I found this article very helpful! My question for you is what assets if any should I look forward into investing in, for example should I invest in some sort of printing machine, certain computer programs, scanners, etc.

Fantastic resource!

Structuring your business for taxes

When was this article published?

Great article! I really enjoy read each of sections. I only did a few of these aspects for my business, and i think i would add these steps to my business.

This was extremely helpful. Starting your own business is a daunting task and by breaking it down for viewers in such an organized and insightful manner is inspiring and palatable. I feel so inspired and motivated to begin.

i am totally agree with your all point. For me, one of the hard work is finding a reliable client for design business. I am enthusiast to follow your guidelines. Hope it will working for me to find few more client.

this article is very useful and have inspired me. thanks!

I wish everyone read this post before they startup.

How to make a proper portfolio for design and web firm. It would be great if you can send me some samples/

Very useful article thanks

Thank you for this great article, I like it, it’s very practical.

Great article

To tell about Web Design like producing a two Web pages can be skilled by just about anyone, but to build a self-sustaining work one needs the right tools, planning,training and experience. http://goo.gl/fsRNBT

Some great advice here. I have recently started my own Graphic and Design and Illustration business at http://nylelevi.com.com

Please take a look if you are interested in seeing what I do. You may even pick up some tips on how to present yourself online if you are planning to start your own business soon.

5 star on this one. copy/paste to clip board 😉

good ideas when you have enough capital

Great tips.. They can be applied not only to design business but to other kinds of businesses too.

I want to start my own business doing design

me too. Hope its moving forward for you. Reading this article and comments on my 9 to 5 London commute has made me think hard about next steps. I’d love to set my self up, just need to take the plunge i guess with lots of positive affirmations, 🙂

I started http://2cooldesign.co.za in 2005 and have never looked back, I’m always looking for more work. Want to be inspired, come see my awesome portfolio, Recommend me to your friends, please & thank you for taking a look ! All the best Guy Tasker creator of 2cooldesign.co.za Awesome Graphic design company based in South Africa. Online based Business, I work from home 🙂

Excellent article. Starting any business can be difficult, but if your passionate about what you want to achieve, it’s possible. It’s also advisable to participate in forums , you can learn and network with other professionals within the industry.

I fully agree with Mel on the emphasis upon work and letting it speak for itself. Also, as Kristine puts it, referrals are an essential customer-base but winning them requires a happy client network that will spread your word. Alongside putting up a team of incentive-driven, passionate & like-minded people, is something that greatly helps in the long run. They bring ideas, networks, energy and add a lot of support. Five year vision, six monthly targets, professional advisers, masters of business administration, etc. are sure-shot recipe, I feel, to bog down budding entrepreneurs, but become necessary when external opinions (investors, shareholders etc.) are unavoidable.

Hmmm… Great info!

On a side note, as I have learned from several business owners, clients are important, and so is marketing, but if you are good at what you do you really don’t have to spend as much time and cash on advertising as you think. Referrals help, but can and does give your client the impression you are looking to expand or take the focus away from them. It just needs to be tastefully done.

I’m thinking an infographic on the best ways to ask for a referral??

Otherwise this content is good. It seems a little heavy, as far as getting exposure etc, and simply to make money, but in my experience I’d rather focus on the work then what I’m trying to achieve financially (at least this is how it comes across) because if you’re good at what you do money will come 🙂

From my own experience, for a business the most important thing is Clients and Cash. Enough Cash at hand to keep rolling till Clients start filling in Cash and repeat. While most of your points address the Client angle, none of the points actual talk about Cash, for a new startup business keep the Cash register ringing is equally important 🙂

Great post, John! I would add that, along with the business plan, one should write a marketing plan. This plan should outline how the business owner will make the business plan a reality, from strategizing what to sell and when, to networking and proper utilization of social media. Without this supporting document, even the best business plan is just words.

Ah, #10! Can’t say enough about it….

I’m a believer in preframing for referrals. Each time I land a new account, I say to the Client, “I’m going to make you very happy. Your business will shine, you’ll feel like a rock star, and you will thrilled with the result. And when that happens, would you mind if I asked you to refer your colleagues/associates to me?” Of course, the response is always “I’d be happy to refer you – IF you impress me first!” Once the project is complete, I say to the Client “Remember when I asked you if you wouldn’t mind referring your colleagues/associates to me? What do you think, are you confident enough in my ability to send your friends or family my way?”

It’s a lot easier to ask for a referral when you’ve preframed your Client for it from the start. 95% of my work now is by referral/word of mouth, and I believe this is the reason. I rarely get a new client any other way anymore.

How to Start a Graphic Design Business

Starting a graphic design business can be very profitable. With proper planning, execution and hard work, you can enjoy great success. Below you will learn the keys to launching a successful graphic design business.

Importantly, a critical step in starting a graphic design business is to complete your business plan. To help you out, you should download Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template here .

Download our Ultimate Business Plan Template here

14 Steps To Start a Graphic Design Business :

• Choose the Name for Your Graphic Design Business
• Develop Your Graphic Design Business Plan
• Choose the Legal Structure for Your Graphic Design Business
• Secure Startup Funding for Your Graphic Design Business (If Needed)
• Secure a Location for Your Business
• Register Your Graphic Design Business with the IRS
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get a Business Credit Card
• Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits
• Get Business Insurance for Your Graphic Design Business
• Buy or Lease the Right Graphic Design Business Equipment
• Develop Your Graphic Design Business Marketing Materials
• Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Graphic Design Business
• Open for Business

1. Choose the Name for Your Graphic Design Business

The first step to starting a graphic design business is to choose your business’ name.  

This is a very important choice since your company name is your brand and will last for the lifetime of your business. Ideally you choose a name that is meaningful and memorable. Here are some tips for choosing a name for your own graphic design business:

• Make sure the name is available . Check your desired name against trademark databases and your state’s list of registered business names to see if it’s available. Also check to see if a suitable domain name is available.
• Keep it simple . The best names are usually ones that are easy to remember, pronounce and spell.
• Think about marketing . Come up with a name that reflects the desired brand and/or focus of your graphic design business.

2. Develop Your Graphic Design Business Plan

One of the most important steps in starting a graphic design business is to develop your graphic design business plan . The process of creating your plan ensures that you fully understand your market and your business strategy. The plan also provides you with a roadmap to follow and if needed, to present to funding sources to raise capital for your business.

Your business plan should include the following sections:

• Executive Summary – this section should summarize your entire business plan so readers can quickly understand the key details of your own business.
• Company Overview – this section tells the reader about the history of your graphic design business and what type of graphic design business you operate. For example, are you a freelance graphic designer, in-house designer, or a graphic design studio?
• Industry Analysis – here you will document key information about the graphic design industry. Conduct market research and document how big the industry is and what trends are affecting it.
• Customer Analysis – in this section, you will document who your ideal or target customers are and their demographics. For example, how old are they? Where do they live? What do they find important when purchasing services like the ones you will offer?
• Competitive Analysis – here you will document the key direct and indirect competitors you will face and how you will build competitive advantage.
• Marketing Plan – your marketing plan should address the 4Ps: Product, Price, Promotions and Place.
• Product : Determine and document what products/services you will offer 
• Prices : Document the prices of your products/services
• Place : Where will your business be located and how will that location help you increase sales?
• Promotions : What promotional methods will you use to attract customers to your graphic design business? For example, you might decide to use pay-per-click advertising, public relations, search engine optimization and/or social media marketing.
• Operations Plan – here you will determine the key processes you will need to run your day-to-day operations. You will also determine your staffing needs. Finally, in this section of your plan, you will create a projected growth timeline showing the milestones you hope to achieve in the coming years.
• Management Team – this section details the background of your company’s management team.
• Financial Plan – finally, the financial plan answers questions including the following:
• What startup costs will you incur?
• How will your graphic design business make money?
• What are your projected sales and expenses for the next five years?
• Do you need to raise funding to launch your business?

Finish Your Business Plan Today!

3. choose the legal structure for your graphic design business.

Next you need to choose a legal structure for your graphic design business and register it and your business name with the Secretary of State in each state where you operate your business.

Below are the five most common legal structures:

1) Sole proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity in which the business owner and the business are the same legal person. The owner of a sole proprietorship is responsible for all debts and obligations of the business. There are no formalities required to establish a sole proprietorship, and it is easy to set up and operate. The main advantage of a sole proprietorship is that it is simple and inexpensive to establish. The main disadvantage is that the owner is liable for all debts and obligations of the business.

2) Partnerships

A partnership is a legal structure that is popular among small business owners. It is an agreement between two or more people who want to start a graphic design business together. The partners share in the profits and losses of the business. 

The advantages of a partnership are that it is easy to set up, and the partners share in the profits and losses of the business. The disadvantages of a partnership are that the partners are jointly liable for the debts of the business, and disagreements between partners can be difficult to resolve.

3) Limited Liability Company (LLC)

A limited liability company, or LLC, is a type of business entity that provides limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners of an LLC are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The advantages of an LLC for a graphic design business include flexibility in management, pass-through taxation (avoids double taxation as explained below), and limited personal liability. The disadvantages of an LLC include lack of availability in some states and self-employment taxes.

4) C Corporation

A C Corporation is a business entity that is separate from its owners. It has its own tax ID and can have shareholders. The main advantage of a C Corporation for a graphic design business is that it offers limited liability to its owners. This means that the owners are not personally responsible for the debts and liabilities of the business. The disadvantage is that C Corporations are subject to double taxation. This means that the corporation pays taxes on its profits, and the shareholders also pay taxes on their dividends.

5) S Corporation

An S Corporation is a type of corporation that provides its owners with limited liability protection and allows them to pass their business income through to their personal income tax returns, thus avoiding double taxation. There are several limitations on S Corporations including the number of shareholders they can have among others.

Once you register your own business, your state will send you your official “Articles of Incorporation.” You will need this among other documentation when establishing your banking account (see below). We recommend that you consult an attorney in determining which legal structure is best suited for your company.

Incorporate Your Business at the Guaranteed Lowest Price

We are proud to have partnered with Business Rocket to help you incorporate your business at the lowest price, guaranteed.

Not only does BusinessRocket have a 4.9 out of 5 rating on TrustPilot (with over 1,000 reviews) because of their amazing quality…but they also guarantee the most affordable incorporation packages and the fastest processing time in the industry.

4. Secure Startup Funding for Your Graphic Design Business (If Needed)

In developing your graphic design business plan , you might have determined that you need to raise funding to launch your business. 

If so, the main sources of funding for a graphic design business to consider are personal savings, family and friends, credit card financing, bank loans, crowdfunding and angel investors. Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to early-stage businesses. Angel investors typically will invest in a graphic design business that they believe has high potential for growth.

5. Secure a Location for Your Business

The first thing to consider when looking for a location for your graphic design business is your target market. You’ll want to find a location that is accessible and convenient for your customers. Additionally, you should consider the cost of rent and other business expenses when choosing a location. It’s important to secure a site that is affordable. 

6. Register Your Graphic Design Business with the IRS

Next, you need to register your business with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which will result in the IRS issuing you an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Most banks will require you to have an EIN in order to open up an account. In addition, in order to hire employees, you will need an EIN since that is how the IRS tracks your payroll tax payments.

Note that if you are a sole proprietor without employees, you generally do not need to get an EIN. Rather, you would use your social security number (instead of your EIN) as your taxpayer identification number.

7. Open a Business Bank Account

It is important to establish a bank account in your graphic design business’ name. This process is fairly simple and involves the following steps:

• Identify and contact the bank you want to use
• Gather and present the required documents (generally include your company’s Articles of Incorporation, driver’s license or passport, and proof of address)
• Complete the bank’s application form and provide all relevant information
• Meet with a banker to discuss your business needs and establish a relationship with them

8. Get a Business Credit Card

You should get a business credit card for your graphic design business to help you separate personal and business expenses.

You can either apply for a business credit card through your bank or apply for one through a credit card company.

When you’re applying for a business credit card, you’ll need to provide some information about your business. This includes the name of your business, the address of your business, and the type of business you’re running. You’ll also need to provide some information about yourself, including your name, Social Security number, and date of birth.

Once you’ve been approved for a business credit card, you’ll be able to use it to make purchases for your business. You can also use it to build your credit history which could be very important in securing loans and getting credit lines for your business in the future.

9. Get the Required Business Licenses and Permits

The licenses and permits you need to start a graphic design business will vary depending on your location. However, some of the most common licenses and permits you may need include a business license, a trade name registration, and a zoning permit.

10. Get Business Insurance for Your Graphic Design Business

There are a few different types of insurance you will need to operate a graphic design business.

Some business insurance policies you should consider for your graphic design business include:

• General liability insurance : This covers accidents and injuries that occur on your property. It also covers damages caused by your employees or products.
• Workers’ compensation insurance : If you have employees, this type of policy works with your general liability policy to protect against workplace injuries and accidents. It also covers medical expenses and lost wages.
• Commercial property insurance : This covers damage to your property caused by fire, theft, or vandalism.
• Business interruption insurance : This covers lost income and expenses if your business is forced to close due to a covered event.
• Professional liability insurance : This protects your business against claims of professional negligence.

Find an insurance agent, tell them about your business and its needs, and they will recommend policies that fit those needs. 

11. Buy or Lease the Right Graphic Design Business Equipment

To start a graphic design business, you will need some basic equipment. This includes a computer, software, printer, and scanner. You may also want to invest in a graphics tablet to help with your design work.

12. Develop Your Graphic Design Business Marketing Materials

Marketing materials will be required to attract and retain customers to your graphic design business.

The key marketing materials you will need are as follows:

• Logo : Spend some time developing a good logo for your graphic design business. Your logo will be printed on company stationery, business cards, marketing materials and so forth. The right logo can increase customer trust and awareness of your brand.
• Website : Likewise, a professional graphic design business website provides prospective clients with information about the services you offer, your company’s history, and contact information. Importantly, remember that the look and feel of your website will affect how customers perceive you.
• Social Media Accounts : establish social media accounts in your company’s name. Accounts on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and/or other social media platforms will help customers and others find and interact with your graphic design business.

13. Purchase and Setup the Software Needed to Run Your Graphic Design Business

To start a graphic design business, you will need design software. You may also need software for designing websites, creating logos and illustrations, and editing videos. 

14. Open for Business

You are now ready to open your graphic design business. If you followed the steps above, you should be in a great position to build a successful business. Below are answers to frequently asked questions that might further help you.

How to Finish Your Ultimate Business Plan in 1 Day!

Don’t you wish there was a faster, easier way to finish your graphic design business plan?

With Growthink’s Ultimate Business Plan Template you can finish your plan in just 8 hours or less!

How to Start a Graphic Design Business FAQs

Where can i download a graphic design business plan pdf.

You can download our graphic design business plan PDF  here. This is a business plan template you can use in PDF format.

How much does it cost to start a graphic design business?

To start a graphic design business, it will cost approximately $5,000. This includes setting up a basic website and purchasing necessary software. You will also need to factor in the cost of marketing and advertising your new business.

Is it hard to start a graphic design business?

No, it is not hard to start a graphic design business if you have the skills and motivation to get started. There are online resources and tools that can help you learn how to start and grow your business. Additionally, there are a number of online marketplaces where you can sell your designs.

How can I start a graphic design business with no experience?

There are a few ways to start a graphic design business with no experience. One way is to find a mentor to guide you through the process. Another way is to take some online courses or read some books about graphic design. You could also try volunteering for a graphic design company to get some experience.

What type of graphic design business is most profitable?

The type of graphic design business that is most profitable specializes in creating logos and brand identities. This is because there is a high demand for logo and brand design services, and businesses are willing to pay a premium for high-quality work.

What are the ongoing expenses for a graphic design business?

The ongoing expenses for a graphic design business can vary depending on the size of the business and the services offered. Some common expenses include marketing and advertising, website maintenance, software and hardware upgrades, and employee salaries.

How does a graphic design business make money?

A graphic design business usually makes money by charging a fee for services. A freelance graphic design business may also make money by selling products such as fonts, templates, or other design-related items. A graphic design business may also earn revenue through advertising or affiliate marketing.

Is owning a graphic design business profitable?

Yes, owning a graphic design business can be profitable. Graphic designers are in high demand, as businesses increasingly rely on visuals to communicate their messages. In addition, freelance graphic designers often have the flexibility to work from home, which can save on overhead costs. Furthermore, there is a growing trend of businesses outsourcing their graphic design needs, which can provide a steady stream of work for a graphic design business.

Why do graphic design businesses fail?

One of the main reasons graphic design companies fail is because they do not have a clear business plan or strategy. To be successful, you need to have a plan for how you will market your business, find graphic design clients, and keep your existing clients happy. You also need to be realistic about how much revenue you can generate and how much you can afford to spend on marketing and overhead.

Other Helpful Business Plan Articles & Templates

Free Download

Graphic Design Business Plan Template

Download this free graphic design business plan template, with pre-filled examples, to create your own plan..

Or plan with professional support in LivePlan. Save 50% today

Available formats:

What you get with this template

A complete business plan.

Text and financials are already filled out and ready for you to update.

• SBA-lender approved format

Your plan is formatted the way lenders and investors expect.

Edit to your needs

Download as a Word document and edit your business plan right away.

• Detailed instructions

Features clear and simple instructions from expert business plan writers.

All 100% free. We're here to help you succeed in business, no strings attached.

Get the most out of your business plan example

Follow these tips to quickly develop a working business plan from this sample.

1. Don't worry about finding an exact match

We have over 550 sample business plan templates . So, make sure the plan is a close match, but don't get hung up on the details.

Your business is unique and will differ from any example or template you come across. So, use this example as a starting point and customize it to your needs.

2. Remember it's just an example

Our sample business plans are examples of what one business owner did. That doesn't make them perfect or require you to cram your business idea to fit the plan structure.

Use the information, financials, and formatting for inspiration. It will speed up and guide the plan writing process.

3. Know why you're writing a business plan

To create a plan that fits your needs , you need to know what you intend to do with it.

Are you planning to use your plan to apply for a loan or pitch to investors? Then it's worth following the format from your chosen sample plan to ensure you cover all necessary information.

But, if you don't plan to share your plan with anyone outside of your business—you likely don't need everything.

More business planning resources

How to Write a Business Plan

Industry Business Planning Guides

Business Plan Template

How to Write a Business Plan for Investors

10 Qualities of a Good Business Plan

How to Create a Business Plan Presentation

Simple Business Plan Outline

How to Start a Business With No Money

Download your template now

Need to validate your idea, secure funding, or grow your business this template is for you..

• Fill-in-the-blank simplicity
• Expert tips & tricks

We care about your privacy. See our privacy policy .

Not ready to download right now? We'll email you the link so you can download it whenever you're ready.

Download as Docx

Download as PDF

Finish your business plan with confidence

Step-by-step guidance and world-class support from the #1 business planning software

From template to plan in 30 minutes

• Step-by-step guidance
• Crystal clear financials
• Expert advice at your fingertips
• Funding & lender ready formats
• PLUS all the tools to manage & grow

The quickest way to turn a business idea into a business plan

Fill-in-the-blanks and automatic financials make it easy.

No thanks, I prefer writing 40-page documents.

Discover the world’s #1 plan building software

Item added to your cart

Here is a free business plan sample for a graphic design services.

If you're passionate about graphic design and are considering turning your creativity into a career, you've landed on the perfect page.

In the content that follows, we will present you with a comprehensive business plan outline tailored for a graphic design venture.

As you might be aware, a strategic business plan is crucial for any aspiring entrepreneur. It serves as a roadmap, guiding you through establishing your brand, setting clear objectives, and outlining your approach to attract clients and grow your business.

To jumpstart your journey, you can utilize our graphic designer business plan template. Our team is also on standby to provide a free review and offer feedback on your completed plan.

How to draft a great business plan for your graphic design services?

A good business plan for a graphic designer must reflect the unique aspects of the creative services industry.

To start, it's important to provide a comprehensive overview of the design market. This includes current statistics and identifying emerging trends within the industry, similar to what we've incorporated in our graphic design business plan template .

Your business plan should articulate your vision clearly. Define your niche (such as logo design, branding, web design, etc.), identify your target market (startups, small businesses, large corporations, individual clients), and establish your unique value proposition (customized solutions, quick turnaround, specific design expertise).

Market analysis is a critical component. This means understanding your competitors, staying abreast of design trends, and knowing your potential clients' needs and preferences.

For a graphic designer, it's essential to showcase your portfolio. Detail the range of services you offer - from print to digital design - and demonstrate how these services can solve the problems or meet the needs of your target audience.

The operational plan should outline your work environment, whether it's a home office or a rented studio space, your hardware and software setup, and your process for managing projects and client communications.

Quality of work is paramount in graphic design. Emphasize your design process, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful designs.

Discuss your marketing and sales strategy. How will you build your brand and attract new clients? Consider your promotional tactics, networking strategies, and client retention plans.

Having a digital strategy, including a professional website and an active presence on platforms like Instagram or Behance, is crucial for showcasing your work and reaching potential clients.

The financial section is vital. It should cover your pricing model, sales projections, operational expenses, and the point at which your business will become profitable.

As a graphic designer, your income may vary based on project size and frequency, so it's important to have a clear financial plan. For assistance, you can refer to our financial forecast for graphic designers .

Compared to other business plans, a graphic design plan must focus more on intellectual property rights, portfolio development, and client acquisition strategies.

A well-crafted business plan will not only help you clarify your business strategy but also attract clients or secure financing.

Lenders and investors are interested in a solid market analysis, realistic financial projections, and a clear understanding of how you will manage your design projects and client relationships.

By presenting a detailed and substantiated plan, you show your professionalism and dedication to the success of your graphic design business.

To achieve these goals efficiently, you can fill out our graphic design business plan template .

A free example of business plan for a graphic design services

Here, we will provide a concise and illustrative example of a business plan for a specific project.

This example aims to provide an overview of the essential components of a business plan. It is important to note that this version is only a summary. As it stands, this business plan is not sufficiently developed to support a profitability strategy or convince a bank to provide financing.

To be effective, the business plan should be significantly more detailed, including up-to-date market data, more persuasive arguments, a thorough market study, a three-year action plan, as well as detailed financial tables such as a projected income statement, projected balance sheet, cash flow budget, and break-even analysis.

All these elements have been thoroughly included by our experts in the business plan template they have designed for a graphic designer .

Here, we will follow the same structure as in our business plan template.

Market Opportunity

Market data and figures.

The graphic design industry is a dynamic and evolving field with significant impact on various sectors.

Recent estimates value the global graphic design market at over $45 billion, with expectations for continued growth as businesses increasingly rely on visual content to communicate with their audiences.

In the United States alone, there are over 250,000 graphic design businesses, contributing to an annual revenue of approximately $15 billion for the industry.

These figures underscore the critical role of graphic designers in branding, marketing, and multimedia industries, highlighting their economic importance.

The graphic design landscape is shaped by several emerging trends and technological advancements.

Minimalism continues to dominate design preferences, with a focus on simplicity and clean lines. This is complemented by bold typography and vibrant color schemes that capture attention.

There is a growing emphasis on personalized and custom graphics, as businesses seek to stand out in a crowded marketplace with unique visual identities.

Advancements in design software and tools, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, are opening new avenues for immersive and interactive designs.

Additionally, the rise of social media platforms has led to an increased demand for engaging and shareable graphic content.

Environmental consciousness is also influencing design choices, with a push towards sustainable practices and materials in print design.

These trends reflect the graphic design industry's adaptability and its role in shaping how businesses and individuals communicate visually in the digital age.

Success Factors

Several factors contribute to the success of a graphic designer or design firm.

First and foremost, the ability to produce high-quality, innovative designs that effectively communicate a client's message is paramount.

Creativity and a strong understanding of design principles are essential for delivering compelling visual content.

Staying current with the latest design software and technologies can provide a competitive edge and enable designers to offer cutting-edge solutions.

Networking and building strong relationships with clients and other industry professionals can lead to referrals and repeat business.

Excellent customer service and the ability to work within deadlines and budgets are also critical for client satisfaction and retention.

Ultimately, a graphic designer's success hinges on their ability to adapt to industry trends, manage projects efficiently, and consistently deliver designs that resonate with target audiences.

The Project

Project presentation.

Our graphic design venture is tailored to cater to the increasing need for professional and creative visual communication solutions. Situated in a vibrant business district or operating online, this service will offer a comprehensive suite of graphic design services, including branding, logo design, marketing materials, web design, and more, all crafted with a keen eye for detail and contemporary aesthetics.

The emphasis will be on delivering bespoke, impactful, and visually compelling designs that resonate with the target audience and enhance our clients' brand identity.

This graphic design initiative aims to become a go-to resource for businesses and individuals alike, seeking to elevate their visual presence in a competitive market.

Value Proposition

The value proposition of our graphic design service is centered around providing innovative and personalized design solutions that effectively communicate our clients' brand message.

Our dedication to artistic excellence, strategic thinking, and customer satisfaction offers a transformative visual experience, while supporting the marketing goals and brand recognition of our clients.

We are committed to fostering a collaborative environment where clients feel understood and valued, and aim to educate them on the importance of professional design in achieving business success.

Our graphic design service strives to be a cornerstone for clients, delivering not just designs, but a visual language that speaks directly to their audience and distinguishes them from the competition.

Project Owner

The project owner is a seasoned graphic designer with a passion for visual storytelling and a knack for translating ideas into compelling design concepts.

With a background in graphic design and a portfolio that showcases a wide range of successful projects, they are poised to create a graphic design service that is renowned for its creativity, client-focused approach, and ability to deliver results.

Driven by a mission to empower brands through design, they are committed to staying ahead of industry trends and leveraging their expertise to provide clients with cutting-edge visual solutions.

Their dedication to the craft of design and their desire to make a lasting impact on clients' businesses are the driving forces behind this venture, aiming to set a new standard in the graphic design landscape.

The Market Study

Target market.

The target market for a graphic design business can be segmented into various groups.

Firstly, there are small to medium-sized businesses in need of branding, marketing materials, and digital design services to establish and maintain their market presence.

Secondly, individual entrepreneurs and professionals who require personal branding and promotional designs to enhance their visibility and credibility in their respective fields.

Additionally, the market includes larger corporations seeking to outsource creative projects, such as annual reports, corporate identity packages, and advertising campaigns.

Lastly, other potential clients include non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and event planners looking for design services for campaigns, events, and informational materials.

SWOT Analysis

A SWOT analysis for a graphic design business might highlight the following:

Strengths could include a strong portfolio showcasing a wide range of design skills, a well-established network of clients, and a reputation for creativity and timely delivery.

Weaknesses might involve the challenge of staying updated with the latest design software and trends, or the potential for workload fluctuations due to project-based work.

Opportunities could arise from the growing need for digital design with the increase in online businesses, as well as the potential to expand services to include web design and social media management.

Threats may include intense competition from other freelance designers and design agencies, as well as the need to continuously adapt to changing design technologies and client preferences.

Competitor Analysis

Competitor analysis for a graphic design business shows a diverse and competitive landscape.

Direct competitors include other freelance graphic designers and design agencies that offer similar services.

These competitors vie for clients by showcasing their design expertise, client testimonials, and portfolio quality.

Competitive advantages may be found in specialized design services, niche market expertise, strong client relationships, and a unique creative approach.

Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of these competitors is crucial for carving out a unique market position and developing client acquisition and retention strategies.

Competitive Advantages

The competitive advantages of a graphic design business may revolve around personalized service and a unique design aesthetic.

Offering tailored design solutions that align with a client's brand identity and business goals can set a designer apart from competitors.

Additionally, staying abreast of design trends and incorporating innovative techniques can enhance the appeal of the services offered.

Building a reputation for reliability, effective communication, and exceeding client expectations can foster long-term relationships and lead to repeat business and referrals.

Transparency in the design process and clear pricing structures also contribute to building trust and satisfaction among clients.

You can also read our articles about: - how to offer graphic design services: a complete guide - the customer segments of a graphic design services - the competition study for a graphic design services

The Strategy

Development plan.

Our three-year development plan for the graphic design business is designed to be dynamic and responsive to the evolving market.

In the first year, we will concentrate on building a robust portfolio and establishing a strong online presence to attract a diverse client base.

The second year will be focused on expanding our services to include branding packages, web design, and digital marketing, thereby offering a comprehensive suite of design solutions to our clients.

In the third year, we aim to collaborate with advertising agencies and corporate clients to secure larger projects and recurring contracts.

Throughout this period, we will prioritize staying ahead of design trends, investing in cutting-edge software, and continuously improving our technical skills to deliver exceptional value to our clients.

Business Model Canvas

The Business Model Canvas for our graphic design business targets entrepreneurs, small businesses, and corporations in need of professional visual content.

Our value proposition is centered on delivering high-quality, custom design work that effectively communicates our clients' brand messages.

We offer our services through various online platforms, utilizing key resources such as our design software, creative expertise, and a network of professional contacts.

Key activities include client consultations, design creation, project management, and ongoing client support.

Our revenue streams are generated from project-based fees, retainer agreements, and design service packages, while our costs are mainly associated with software subscriptions, marketing, and professional development.

Access a detailed and editable real Business Model Canvas in our business plan template .

Marketing Strategy

Our marketing strategy is built on showcasing our design expertise and building relationships with clients.

We plan to create a strong portfolio that demonstrates our range of skills and past successes. This will be complemented by testimonials and case studies to build credibility.

Networking events, social media marketing, and collaborations with influencers in the design community will help us reach a wider audience.

We will also offer free resources, such as design tips and templates, to engage potential clients and position ourselves as thought leaders in the industry.

Risk Policy

The risk policy for our graphic design business focuses on mitigating risks associated with client acquisition, project delivery, and data security.

We will implement clear contracts to define project scopes and deliverables, ensuring client expectations are managed effectively.

Regular data backups and adherence to cybersecurity best practices will protect our work and client information.

Cost management strategies will be in place to maintain financial stability, and professional indemnity insurance will cover any potential legal issues related to our design work.

Our commitment is to provide high-quality design services while safeguarding our business and our clients' interests.

Why Our Project is Viable

We are confident in the viability of our graphic design business due to the ever-increasing demand for professional visual content across all sectors.

With a focus on creativity, client satisfaction, and adaptability, we are well-positioned to capture market share and build a reputable brand.

We are enthusiastic about the opportunity to enhance our clients' visual communication strategies while growing a sustainable and innovative design business.

We remain flexible to industry changes and client needs, and we are excited about the future prospects of our graphic design venture.

You can also read our articles about: - the Business Model Canvas of a graphic design services - the marketing strategy for a graphic design services

The Financial Plan

Of course, the text presented below is far from sufficient to serve as a solid and credible financial analysis for a bank or potential investor. They expect specific numbers, financial statements, and charts demonstrating the profitability of your project.

All these elements are available in our business plan template for a graphic designer and our financial plan for a graphic designer .

Initial expenses for our graphic design business include investing in high-quality design software, powerful computing equipment to handle complex design tasks, setting up a professional website portfolio, acquiring licenses for stock images and fonts, and costs related to brand creation and launching targeted marketing campaigns to reach potential clients.

Our revenue assumptions are based on a thorough analysis of the market demand for graphic design services, considering the importance of strong visual branding for businesses and the increasing need for digital content.

We anticipate a steady growth in client acquisition, starting modestly and expanding as our portfolio and reputation in the graphic design industry strengthen.

The projected income statement indicates expected revenues from our design services, production costs (software subscriptions, design assets), and operating expenses (workspace rent, marketing, salaries for any support staff, etc.).

This results in a forecasted net profit essential for assessing the profitability of our graphic design venture over time.

The projected balance sheet reflects assets specific to our business, such as design software, hardware, and any pre-paid subscriptions, and liabilities including debts and anticipated expenses.

It shows the overall financial health of our graphic design business at the end of each period.

Our projected cash flow budget details incoming and outgoing cash flows, allowing us to anticipate our cash needs at any given time. This will enable us to manage our finances effectively and avoid cash flow problems.

The projected financing plan lists the specific financing sources we plan to use to cover our startup expenses.

The working capital requirement for our graphic design business will be closely monitored to ensure we have the necessary liquidity to finance our daily operations, including software subscription fees, marketing efforts, and any outsourced services or staff salaries.

The break-even point specific to our project is the level of sales needed to cover all our costs, including startup expenses, and start making a profit.

It will indicate when our business will become profitable.

Performance indicators we will track include the profit margin rate on our design services, the liquidity ratio to assess our ability to cover short-term financial obligations, and the return on investment to measure the effectiveness of our capital invested in the business.

These indicators will help us evaluate the financial health and overall success of our graphic design business.

If you want to know more about the financial analysis of this type of activity, please read our article about the financial plan for a graphic design services .

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Opens in a new window.

How to write a business plan for a graphic design agency?

Writing a business plan for a graphic design agency can be an intimidating task, especially for those just starting.

This in-depth guide is designed to help entrepreneurs like you understand how to create a comprehensive business plan so that you can approach the exercise with method and confidence.

We'll cover: why writing a graphic design agency business plan is so important - both when starting up, and when running and growing the business - what information you need to include in your plan, how it should be structured, and what tools you can use to get the job done efficiently.

Let's get started!

In this guide:

Why write a business plan for a graphic design agency?

• What information is needed to create a business plan for a graphic design agency?
• What goes in the financial forecast for a graphic design agency?
• What goes in the written part of a graphic design agency business plan?
• What tool can I use to write my graphic design agency business plan?

Having a clear understanding of why you want to write a business plan for your graphic design agency will make it simpler for you to grasp the rationale behind its structure and content. So before delving into the plan's actual details, let's take a moment to remind ourselves of the primary reasons why you'd want to create a graphic design agency business plan.

To have a clear roadmap to grow the business

Small businesses rarely experience a constant and predictable environment. Economic cycles go up and down, while the business landscape is mutating constantly with new regulations, technologies, competitors, and consumer behaviours emerging when we least expect it.

In this dynamic context, it's essential to have a clear roadmap for your graphic design agency. Otherwise, you are navigating in the dark which is dangerous given that - as a business owner - your capital is at risk.

That's why crafting a well-thought-out business plan is crucial to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of your venture.

To create an effective business plan, you'll need to take a step-by-step approach. First, you'll have to assess your current position (if you're already in business), and then identify where you'd like your graphic design agency to be in the next three to five years.

Once you have a clear destination for your graphic design agency, you'll focus on three key areas:

• Resources: you'll determine the human, equipment, and capital resources needed to reach your goals successfully.
• Speed: you'll establish the optimal pace at which your business needs to grow if it is to meet its objectives within the desired timeframe.
• Risks: you'll identify and address potential risks you might encounter along the way.

By going through this process regularly, you'll be able to make informed decisions about resource allocation, paving the way for the long-term success of your business.

Need a convincing business plan?

The Business Plan Shop makes it easy to create a financial forecast to assess the potential profitability of your projects, and write a business plan that’ll wow investors.

To maintain visibility on future cash flows

Businesses can go for years without making a profit, but they go bust as soon as they run out of cash. That's why "cash is king", and maintaining visibility on your graphic design agency's future cash flows is critical.

How do I do that? That's simple: you need an up-to-date financial forecast.

The good news is that your graphic design agency business plan already contains a financial forecast (more on that later in this guide), so all you have to do is to keep it up-to-date.

To do this, you need to regularly compare the actual financial performance of your business to what was planned in your financial forecast, and adjust the forecast based on the current trajectory of your business.

Monitoring your graphic design agency's financial health will enable you to identify potential financial problems (such as an unexpected cash shortfall) early and to put in place corrective measures. It will also allow you to detect and capitalize on potential growth opportunities (higher demand from a given segment of customers for example).

To secure financing

Whether you are a startup or an existing business, writing a detailed graphic design agency business plan is essential when seeking financing from banks or investors.

This makes sense given what we've just seen: financiers want to ensure you have a clear roadmap and visibility on your future cash flows.

Banks will use the information included in the plan to assess your borrowing capacity (how much debt your business can support) and your ability to repay the loan before deciding whether they will extend credit to your business and on what terms.

Similarly, investors will review your plan carefully to assess if their investment can generate an attractive return on investment.

To do so, they will be looking for evidence that your graphic design agency has the potential for healthy growth, profitability, and cash flow generation over time.

Now that you understand why it is important to create a business plan for a graphic design agency, let's take a look at what information is needed to create one.

Need inspiration for your business plan?

The Business Plan Shop has dozens of business plan templates that you can use to get a clear idea of what a complete business plan looks like.

Information needed to create a business plan for a graphic design agency

You need the right data in order to project sales, investments and costs accurately in the financial forecast of your graphic design agency business plan.

Below, we'll cover three key pieces of information you should gather before drafting your business plan.

Carrying out market research for a graphic design agency

Before you begin writing your business plan for a graphic design agency, conducting market research is a critical step in ensuring precise and realistic financial projections.

Market research grants you valuable insights into your target customer base, competitors, pricing strategies, and other crucial factors that can impact the success of your business.

In the course of this research, you may stumble upon trends that could impact your graphic design agency.

Your market research may reveal that some clients may be looking for more complex or specialized graphic design services, such as 3D animation or motion graphics. Additionally, your research might uncover that there could be an increased demand for graphic design services that are tailored to social media platforms.

Such market trends play a pivotal role in revenue forecasting, as they provide essential data regarding potential customers' spending habits and preferences.

By integrating these findings into your financial projections, you can provide investors with more accurate information, enabling them to make well-informed decisions about investing in your graphic design agency.

Developing the sales and marketing plan for a graphic design agency

Budgeting sales and marketing expenses is essential before creating a graphic design agency business plan.

A comprehensive sales and marketing plan should provide an accurate projection of what actions need to be implemented to acquire and retain customers, how many people are needed to carry out these initiatives, and how much needs to be spent on promotions, advertising, and other aspects.

This helps ensure that the right amount of resources is allocated to these activities in order to hit the sales and growth objectives forecasted in your business plan.

The staffing and capital expenditure requirements of a graphic design agency

Whether you are starting or expanding a graphic design agency, it is important to have a clear plan for recruitment and capital expenditures (investment in equipment and real estate) in order to ensure the success of the business.

Both the recruitment and investment plans need to be coherent with the timing and level of growth planned in your forecast, and require appropriate funding.

A graphic design agency might incur staffing costs such as salaries for graphic designers, illustrators, copywriters, web developers, and other creative professionals. They might also need to purchase equipment such as computers, tablets, software licenses, cameras, lighting equipment, and other specialized tools for their projects.

In order to create a realistic financial forecast, you will also need to consider the other operating expenses associated with running the business on a day-to-day basis (insurance, bookkeeping, etc.). 

Once you have all the necessary information to create a business plan for your graphic design agency, it is time to start creating your financial forecast.

Need a solid financial forecast?

The Business Plan Shop does the maths for you. Simply enter your revenues, costs and investments. Click save and our online tool builds a three-way forecast for you instantly.

What goes into your graphic design agency's financial forecast?

The financial forecast of your graphic design agency's business plan will enable you to assess the growth, profitability, funding requirements, and cash generation potential of your business in the coming years.

The four key outputs of a financial forecast for a graphic design agency are:

• The profit and loss (P&L) statement ,
• The projected balance sheet ,
• The cash flow forecast ,
• And the sources and uses table .

Let's look at each of these in a bit more detail.

The projected P&L statement

Your graphic design agency forecasted P&L statement enables the reader of your business plan to get an idea of how much revenue and profits your business is expected to make in the near future.

Ideally, your reader will want to see:

• Growth above the inflation level
• Expanding profit margins
• Positive net profit throughout the plan

Expectations for an established graphic design agency will of course be different than for a startup. Existing businesses which have reached their cruising altitude might have slower growth and higher margins than ventures just being started.

The forecasted balance sheet of your graphic design agency

The projected balance sheet of your graphic design agency will enable the reader of your business plan to assess the overall financial health of your business.

It shows three elements: assets, liabilities and equity:

• Assets: are productive resources owned by the business, such as equipment, cash, and accounts receivable (money owed by clients).
• Liabilities: are debts owed to creditors, lenders, and other entities, such as accounts payable (money owed to suppliers).
• Equity: includes the sums invested by the shareholders or business owners and the profits and losses accumulated by the business to date (which are called retained earnings). It is a proxy for the value of the owner's stake in the business.

Analysing your graphic design agency projected balance sheet provides an understanding of your graphic design agency's working capital structure, investment and financing policies.

In particular, the readers of your plan can compare the level of financial debt on the balance sheet to the equity value to measure the level of financial risk (equity doesn't need to be reimbursed, while financial debt must be repaid, making it riskier).

They can also use your balance sheet to assess your graphic design agency's liquidity and solvency:

• A liquidity analysis: focuses on whether or not your business has sufficient cash and short-term assets to cover its liabilities due in the next 12 months.
• A solvency analysis: takes and longer view to assess whether or not your business has the capacity to repay its debts over the medium-term.

The cash flow forecast

As we've seen earlier in this guide, monitoring future cash flows is the key to success and the only way of ensuring that your graphic design agency has enough cash to operate.

As you can expect showing future cash flows is the main role of the cash flow forecast in your graphic design agency business plan.

It is best practice to organise the cash flow statement by nature in order to show the cash impact of the following areas:

• Cash flow generated from operations: the operating cash flow shows how much cash is generated or consumed by the business's commercial activities
• Cash flow from investing activities: the investing cash flow shows how much cash is being invested in capital expenditure (equipment, real estate, etc.) either to maintain the business's equipment or to expand its capabilities
• Cash flow from financing activities: the financing cash flow shows how much cash is raised or distributed to financiers

Looking at the cash flow forecast helps you to make sure that your business has enough cash to keep running, and can help you anticipate potential cash shortfalls.

Your graphic design agency business plan will normally include both yearly and monthly cash flow forecasts so that the readers can view the impact of seasonality on your business cash position and generation.

The initial financing plan

The sources and uses table or initial financing plan is a key component of your business plan when starting a graphic design agency.

It shows where the capital needed to set up the business will come from (sources) and how it will be spent (uses).

This table helps size the investment required to set up the graphic design agency, and understand how risks will be distributed between the business owners, and the financiers.

The sources and uses table also highlights what the starting cash position will be. This is key for startups as the business needs to have sufficient funding to sustain operations until the break-even point is reached.

Now that you have a clear understanding of what will go into the financial forecast of your graphic design agency business plan, let's have a look at the written part of the plan.

The written part of a graphic design agency business plan

The written part of a graphic design agency business plan is composed of 7 main sections:

• The executive summary
• The presentation of the company
• The products and services
• The market analysis
• The strategy
• The operations
• The financial plan

Throughout these sections, you will seek to provide the reader with the details and context needed for them to form a view on whether or not your business plan is achievable and your forecast a realistic possibility.

Let's go through the content of each section in more detail!

1. The executive summary

The first section of your graphic design agency's business plan is the executive summary which provides, as its name suggests, an enticing summary of your plan which should hook the reader and make them want to know more about your business.

When writing the executive summary, it is important to provide an overview of the business, the market, the key financials, and what you are asking from the reader.

Start with a brief introduction of the business, its name, concept, location, how long it has been in operation, and what makes it unique. Mention any services or products you plan to offer and who you sell to.

Then you should follow with an overview of the addressable market for your graphic design agency, current trends, and potential growth opportunities.

You should then include a summary of your key financial figures such as projected revenues, profits, and cash flows.

Finally, you should detail any funding requirements in the ask section.

2. The presentation of the company

As you build your graphic design agency business plan, the second section deserves attention as it delves into the structure and ownership, location, and management team of your company.

In the structure and ownership part, you'll provide valuable insights into the legal structure of the business, the identities of the owners, and their respective investments and ownership stakes. This level of transparency is vital, particularly if you're seeking financing, as it clarifies which legal entity will receive the funds and who holds the reins of the business.

Moving to the location part, you'll offer a comprehensive view of the company's premises and articulate why this specific location is strategic for the business, emphasizing factors like catchment area, accessibility, and nearby amenities.

When describing the location of your graphic design agency, you may emphasize the potential for growth it has. You might highlight that it is in a region that is experiencing growth in terms of businesses and population. You could also point out that it is close to major transportation routes, allowing for easy access for customers and employees. Additionally, you may emphasize the diverse talent pool in the area, suggesting that your graphic design agency could benefit from the different mindsets and skill sets available. Finally, you could emphasize the potential for networking opportunities with other local businesses. All of these factors could make for an attractive investment opportunity.

Lastly, you should introduce your esteemed management team. Provide a thorough explanation of each member's role, background, and extensive experience.

It's equally important to highlight any past successes the management team has achieved and underscore the duration they've been working together. This information will instil trust in potential lenders or investors, showcasing the strength and expertise of your leadership team and their ability to deliver the business plan.

3. The products and services section

The products and services section of your graphic design agency business plan should include a detailed description of what your company sells to its customers. 

For example, your graphic design agency could offer logo design, website design, and brochure design to its customers. Logo design helps customers create a recognizable brand identity, while website design can help customers reach a wider audience. Brochure design can be used for print advertising to help customers promote their products and services. All of these services can help customers create a cohesive design that reflects their brand and values.

The reader will want to understand what makes your graphic design agency unique from other businesses in this competitive market.

When drafting this section, you should be precise about the categories of products or services you sell, the clients you are targeting and the channels that you are targeting them through. 

4. The market analysis

When outlining your market analysis in the graphic design agency business plan, it's essential to include comprehensive details about customers' demographics and segmentation, target market, competition, barriers to entry, and relevant regulations.

The primary aim of this section is to give the reader an understanding of the market size and appeal while demonstrating your expertise in the industry.

To begin, delve into the demographics and segmentation subsection, providing an overview of the addressable market for your graphic design agency, key marketplace trends, and introducing various customer segments and their preferences in terms of purchasing habits and budgets.

Next, shift your focus to the target market subsection, where you can zoom in on the specific customer segments your graphic design agency targets. Explain how your products and services are tailored to meet the unique needs of these customers.

For example, your target market might include small businesses who are looking to create a professional website or marketing materials. These businesses may not have the resources to hire a full-time graphic designer, but are willing to invest in high-quality design work to boost their brand recognition. Finally, the target market would include entrepreneurs who need a logo or other visuals to start their company.

In the competition subsection, introduce your main competitors and explain what sets your graphic design agency apart from them.

Finally, round off your market analysis by providing an overview of the main regulations that apply to your graphic design agency.

5. The strategy section

When writing the strategy section of a business plan for your graphic design agency, it is essential to include information about your competitive edge, pricing strategy, sales & marketing plan, milestones, and risks and mitigants.

The competitive edge subsection should explain what sets your company apart from its competitors. This part is especially key if you are writing the business plan of a startup, as you have to make a name for yourself in the marketplace against established players.

The pricing strategy subsection should demonstrate how you intend to remain profitable while still offering competitive prices to your customers.

The sales & marketing plan should outline how you intend to reach out and acquire new customers, as well as retain existing ones with loyalty programs or special offers. 

The milestones subsection should outline what your company has achieved to date, and its main objectives for the years to come - along with dates so that everyone involved has clear expectations of when progress can be expected.

The risks and mitigants subsection should list the main risks that jeopardize the execution of your plan and explain what measures you have taken to minimize these. This is essential in order for investors or lenders to feel secure in investing in your venture.

Your graphic design agency could face financial risks, such as not collecting payments on time or not getting paid at all. Additionally, your agency might run into risks related to human resources, such as having to terminate a contract with a freelancer or having to hire a new employee if an existing one leaves. All of these things could lead to a decrease in business and a disruption in workflow.

6. The operations section

In your business plan, it's also essential to provide a detailed overview of the operations of your graphic design agency.

Start by covering your team, highlighting key roles and your recruitment plan to support the expected growth. Outline the qualifications and experience required for each role and your intended recruitment methods, whether through job boards, referrals, or headhunters.

Next, clearly state your graphic design agency's operating hours, allowing the reader to assess staffing levels adequately. Additionally, mention any plans for varying opening times during peak seasons and how you'll handle customer queries outside normal operating hours.

Then, shift your focus to the key assets and intellectual property (IP) necessary for your business. If you rely on licenses, trademarks, physical structures like equipment or property, or lease agreements, make sure to include them in this section.

You may have key assets such as a well-established brand and a portfolio of graphic designs that could be a valuable source of intellectual property. You might also have a suite of software tools, templates and artwork that could be used to create custom graphics and designs. These could be invaluable pieces of IP that can be used to create a competitive advantage for your agency.

Lastly, include a list of suppliers you plan to work with, detailing their services and main commercial terms, such as price, payment terms, and contract duration. Investors are interested in understanding why you've chosen specific suppliers, which may be due to higher-quality products or established relationships from previous ventures.

7. The presentation of the financial plan

The financial plan section is where we will present the financial forecast we talked about earlier in this guide.

Now that you have a clear idea of what goes in your graphic design agency business plan, let's look at the solutions you can use to draft yours.

What tool should I use to write my graphic design agency's business plan?

In this section, we will be reviewing the two main solutions for creating a graphic design agency business plan:

• Using specialized online business plan software,
• Outsourcing the plan to the business plan writer.

Using an online business plan software for your graphic design agency's business plan

The modern and most efficient way to write a graphic design agency business plan is to use business plan software .

There are several advantages to using specialized software:

• You can easily create your financial forecast by letting the software take care of the financial calculations for you without errors
• You are guided through the writing process by detailed instructions and examples for each part of the plan
• You can access a library of dozens of complete business plan samples and templates for inspiration
• You get a professional business plan, formatted and ready to be sent to your bank or investors
• You can easily track your actual financial performance against your financial forecast
• You can create scenarios to stress test your forecast's main assumptions
• You can easily update your forecast as time goes by to maintain visibility on future cash flows
• You have a friendly support team on standby to assist you when you are stuck

If you're interested in using this type of solution, you can try The Business Plan Shop for free by signing up here .

Hiring a business plan writer to write your graphic design agency's business plan

Outsourcing your graphic design agency business plan to a business plan writer can also be a viable option.

These writers possess valuable experience in crafting business plans and creating accurate financial forecasts. Additionally, enlisting their services can save you precious time, enabling you to concentrate on the day-to-day operations of your business.

It's important to be mindful, though, that hiring business plan writers comes with a cost. You'll be paying not just for their time but also for the software they use, and their profit margin.

Based on experience, a complete business plan usually requires a budget of at least £1.5k ($2.0k) excluding tax, and more if revisions are needed after initial meetings with lenders or investors - changes often arise following these discussions.

When seeking investment, be cautious about spending too much on consulting fees. Investors prefer their funds to contribute directly to business growth. Thus, the amount you spend on business plan writing services and other consulting services should be negligible compared to the amount you raise.

Another aspect to consider is that while you'll receive the output of the business plan, you usually won't own the actual document. It will be saved in the consultant's business plan software, which will make updating the plan challenging without retaining the consultant on a retainer.

Given these factors, it's essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons of outsourcing your graphic design agency business plan to a business plan writer and decide what best suits your business's unique needs.

Why not create your graphic design agency's business plan using Word or Excel?

Using Microsoft Excel and Word (or their Google, Apple, or open-source equivalents) to write a graphic design agency business plan is a terrible idea.

For starters, creating an accurate and error-free financial forecast on Excel (or any spreadsheet) is very technical and requires both a strong grasp of accounting principles and solid skills in financial modelling.

As a result, it is unlikely anyone will trust your numbers unless - like us at The Business Plan Shop - you hold a degree in finance and accounting and have significant financial modelling experience in your past.

The second reason is that it is inefficient. Building forecasts on spreadsheets was the only option in the 1990s and early 2000s, nowadays technology has advanced and software can do it much faster and much more accurately.

And with the rise of AI, software is also becoming smarter at helping us detect mistakes in our forecasts and helping us analyse the numbers to make better decisions.

Also, using software makes it easy to compare actuals vs. forecasts and maintain our forecasts up to date to maintain visibility on future cash flows - as we discussed earlier in this guide - whereas this is a pain to do with a spreadsheet.

That's for the forecast, but what about the written part of my graphic design agency business plan?

This part is less error-prone, but here also software brings tremendous gains in productivity:

• Word processors don't include instructions and examples for each part of your business plan
• Word processors don't update your numbers automatically when they change in your forecast
• Word processors don't handle the formatting for you

Overall, while Word or Excel may be viable options for creating a graphic design agency business plan for some entrepreneurs, it is by far not the best or most efficient solution.

• Using business plan software is a modern and cost-effective way of writing and maintaining business plans.
• A business plan is not a one-shot exercise as maintaining it current is the only way to keep visibility on your future cash flows.
• A business plan has 2 main parts: a financial forecast outlining the funding requirements of your graphic design agency and the expected growth, profits and cash flows for the next 3 to 5 years; and a written part which gives the reader the information needed to decide if they believe the forecast is achievable.

We hope that this in-depth guide met your expectations and that you now have a clear understanding of how to write your graphic design agency business plan. Do not hesitate to contact our friendly team if you have questions additional questions we haven't addressed here.

Also on The Business Plan Shop

• How to write a business plan to secure a bank loan?
• Key steps to write a business plan?
• Top mistakes to avoid in your business plan

Do you know entrepreneurs interested in starting or growing a graphic design agency? Share this article with them!

Founder & CEO at The Business Plan Shop Ltd

Guillaume Le Brouster is a seasoned entrepreneur and financier.

Guillaume has been an entrepreneur for more than a decade and has first-hand experience of starting, running, and growing a successful business.

Prior to being a business owner, Guillaume worked in investment banking and private equity, where he spent most of his time creating complex financial forecasts, writing business plans, and analysing financial statements to make financing and investment decisions.

Guillaume holds a Master's Degree in Finance from ESCP Business School and a Bachelor of Science in Business & Management from Paris Dauphine University.

Create a convincing business plan

Assess the profitability of your business idea and create a persuasive business plan to pitch to investors

500,000+ entrepreneurs have already tried our solution - why not join them?

Not ready to try our on-line tool ? Learn more about our solution here

Need some inspiration for your business plan?

Subscribe to The Business Plan Shop and gain access to our business plan template library.

Need a professional business plan? Discover our solution

Write your business plan with ease!

It's easy to create a professional business plan with The Business Plan Shop

Want to find out more before you try? Learn more about our solution here

Business Plan Template for Graphic Designer

• Great for beginners
• Ready-to-use, fully customizable Subcategory
• Get started in seconds

As a freelance graphic designer or a graphic design agency, you understand the importance of having a solid business plan. It's the blueprint that guides your success, helping you set clear goals, define your target audience, and map out effective marketing strategies. That's why ClickUp's Business Plan Template for Graphic Designers is a game-changer for your creative business!

With this template, you can:

• Identify your unique selling proposition and differentiate yourself from the competition
• Set realistic pricing strategies that ensure profitability without undervaluing your talent
• Create a comprehensive marketing plan to attract your ideal clients and stand out in a crowded market
• Develop financial projections that help you track your progress and make informed business decisions

Don't let your graphic design business run on guesswork. Get the ClickUp Business Plan Template for Graphic Designers and take control of your creative future today!

Business Plan Template for Graphic Designer Benefits

When using the Business Plan Template for Graphic Designers, you can expect the following benefits:

• Clear roadmap: Outline your business goals and strategies to stay focused and on track.
• Target audience insights: Identify and understand your target audience to tailor your services and marketing efforts.
• Pricing strategies: Determine competitive pricing that maximizes profitability while attracting clients.
• Effective marketing plans: Develop a comprehensive marketing strategy to reach and attract your target audience.
• Financial projections: Plan and forecast your finances to ensure profitability and make informed business decisions.

Main Elements of Graphic Designer Business Plan Template

ClickUp's Business Plan Template for Graphic Designers provides a comprehensive framework to help you outline and organize your business strategy in one place. Here are the main elements of this template:

• Custom Statuses: Keep track of your progress with four different statuses: Complete, In Progress, Needs Revision, and To Do.
• Custom Fields: Add specific details to your business plan using three custom fields: Reference, Approved, and Section, to ensure accuracy and organization.
• Custom Views: Utilize five different views, including Topics, Status, Timeline, Business Plan, and Getting Started Guide, to visualize your business plan from different perspectives and easily navigate through your content.
• Collaboration Tools: Collaborate with team members or clients using ClickUp's features such as comments, mentions, and task assignments, to gather feedback and ensure everyone is on the same page.
• Goal Tracking: Set goals and track progress towards them using ClickUp's Goals feature, ensuring you stay focused and accountable throughout the business planning process.

How To Use Business Plan Template for Graphic Designer

If you're a graphic designer looking to create a comprehensive business plan, follow these steps using the Business Plan Template in ClickUp:

1. Define your business vision and goals

Start by clearly defining your business vision and goals. Consider what you want to achieve as a graphic designer, such as expanding your client base, increasing revenue, or specializing in a particular niche.

Use the Goals feature in ClickUp to set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals for your business.

2. Conduct market research and competitive analysis

Take the time to research your target market and understand your competition. Identify your ideal clients, their needs, and preferences. Analyze your competitors' strengths and weaknesses to identify opportunities and differentiate yourself in the market.

Use the Table view in ClickUp to gather and organize your market research data, including demographics, industry trends, and competitor analysis.

3. Develop your service offerings and pricing strategy

Determine the range of services you will offer as a graphic designer. Consider your skills, expertise, and the needs of your target market. Decide on the pricing structure for each service, taking into account factors such as your experience, overhead costs, and market rates.

Use custom fields in ClickUp to track and compare different service offerings, pricing options, and profit margins.

4. Create a marketing and sales plan

Outline your marketing and sales strategies to attract and retain clients. Identify the channels and tactics you will use to promote your services, such as social media marketing, networking events, or referrals. Develop a sales process that outlines how you will convert leads into paying clients.

Use the Automations feature in ClickUp to automate repetitive marketing tasks, such as social media scheduling or email campaigns. Use the Calendar view to plan and schedule your marketing and sales activities.

By following these steps and utilizing the Business Plan Template in ClickUp, you can create a solid foundation for your graphic design business and set yourself up for success.

Get Started with ClickUp’s Business Plan Template for Graphic Designer

Graphic designers and design agencies can use this Business Plan Template to outline their goals, strategies, and financial projections to ensure the success of their graphic design business.

First, hit “Add Template” to sign up for ClickUp and add the template to your Workspace. Make sure you designate which Space or location in your Workspace you’d like this template applied.

Next, invite relevant members or guests to your Workspace to start collaborating.

Now you can take advantage of the full potential of this template to create a comprehensive business plan:

• Use the Topics View to organize your business plan into different sections such as goals, target audience, pricing strategies, and marketing plans
• The Status View will help you track the progress of each section, whether it's complete, in progress, needs revision, or to do
• The Timeline View will help you set deadlines and visualize the timeline of your business plan
• The Business Plan View will give you an overview of your entire business plan in one place
• The Getting Started Guide View will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to use the template effectively
• Add custom fields like Reference, Approved, and Section to provide additional information and categorize your business plan
• Update statuses and custom fields as you work on each section to keep track of progress
• Monitor and analyze your business plan to ensure it aligns with your goals and objectives
• Business Plan Template for Oracle
• Business Plan Template for Jaguar Land Rover
• Business Plan Template for Retail Clothing Store
• Business Plan Template for Physicians
• Business Plan Template for Government Officials

Template details

Free forever with 100mb storage.

Free training & 24-hours support

Serious about security & privacy

Highest levels of uptime the last 12 months

• Product Roadmap
• Affiliate & Referrals
• On-Demand Demo
• Integrations
• Consultants
• Gantt Chart
• Native Time Tracking
• Automations
• Kanban Board
• vs Airtable
• vs Basecamp
• vs MS Project
• vs Smartsheet
• Software Team Hub
• PM Software Guide

GRAPHIC DESIGN BUSINESS PLAN: 2023 Template & Easy Detailed Guide

• by Kenechukwu Muoghalu
• August 13, 2023
• No comments
• 8 minute read

Table of Contents Hide

What is a business plan in graphic design, what is the importance of a graphic design business plan, how do you write a business plan example, #1. executive summary, #2. company overview, #3. market analysis, #4. competitive analysis, #5. sales and marketing strategy, #6. operational plan, #7. management team, #8. financial plan, #9. appendix, how do i start a graphic design business, how much do i need to start a graphic design business, what type of business is graphic design, what equipment do you need to start a graphic design business, a graphic design business plan template for your company , how do graphic designers find clients, is graphic design profitable, how much should a graphic designer charge, what are the 7 types of graphic design, do you wish to finish your graphic design business plan in 1 day, where is a good place to start when starting a graphic design business, what are some legal aspects to keep in mind when starting your own design business, what skills should i have as a graphic designer.

Graphic design covers a wide range of functions, which include branding, making posters, print advertisements, publications, handbills, or billboards. This description alone will highlight the workload to expect as a graphic designer. Now, to curb these many responsibilities in your company, you will need a graphic design business plan. This article has provided all the necessary information you need to know about a graphic design business plan and how you can create one for your company using our unique template. 

We also have a pre-made graphic design business plan. In any case, you wish to get a business plan today. 

A graphic design business plan is a document that provides a snapshot of your company as it stands and also lays out your future growth plan. This same business plan can help you achieve those mapped-out goals over a given period. As a graphic designer, a business plan will serve as an organizer and companion to help you keep track of every business activity and also stay updated. 

The work of a business plan is to carefully analyze your business goals and strategies while showing you how you can attain them. Even as a startup business, you might need some means of financial assistance to help the growth of your company, and for you to achieve that aim, you will also need a business plan. 

Most times, entrepreneurs fail to embrace the importance of a business plan, but it is almost impossible for you to overlook the essence of a graphic design business plan in any company. Now that you understand the basics and importance of a graphic design business plan for your company, you will learn how to write one using this brief template below. 

To write your graphic design business plan, you can follow the easy-step template that we have provided below. With that template, you can come up with a compelling business plan that your readers will love. If you have trouble composing one, you can choose our pre-made business plan to get your company running.

How to Write a Business Plan for a Graphic Design Company

Writing a business plan does not just come from inspiration. To write a business plan, you will need to follow some processes in order to achieve a professional business plan. These steps include

Your executive summary , being the first section your readers will see, should provide an introduction to your business. The main goal of this section is to engage your reader by explaining the kind of services you offer and how you offer them. You should also include a brief summary of all the sections that will appear in your business plan. Talk about your competitors, marketing, management team, and target market. 

This is where you will give an in-depth explanation of the business. Tell your readers about your company’s history and how you started your graphic design business. You should also specify the type of graphic design business you offer. Is it a publishing graphic design, a website graphic design, a product graphic design, or all? 

Before writing the market analysis of your graphic design business plan, you should research thoroughly on your market. Any information that you provide here should be clear and accurate. It should show your readers how well you understand your market and how you can take advantage of that to make your business grow. You can also include a little information about your customer here and how you intend to serve them well.

Your competitive analysis is also another piece of research that needs to be carried out in your industry. Every business has a competitor, and to get ahead of them, you need to research them to know what they do best. You should also know their strengths and weaknesses. Also, discover how well they serve customers and then include the full details here. Lastly, tell your readers what makes your business unique and special compared to theirs.

A proper marketing plan should cover your product, price, place, and promotion. The essence of formulating a marketing plan is to increase sales with your potential clients and also create awareness for your company. In this section, you will need to tell your readers how you intend to attract customers and what your marketing plan entails. 

Every business has a goal and objective that they need to achieve over a given period of time. This section of your graphic design business plan should cover how you intend to achieve those goals and the basic operations you would follow to make it happen, either as a short-term goal or a long-term goal. 

To show your readers your graphic design business’s ability to succeed, you will need a strong management team. In this section, you will highlight your key players’ backgrounds and also mention their skills and experience in their mode of work. You can indirectly tell your readers how your team has the ability to grow a company. 

This is also a crucial part of any business plan, especially when seeking financial support from lenders or investors. It is essential that you include an income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement in this section of your plan. This information should clearly analyze your financial projections and how you intend to make profits over a given period. 

Lastly, this section should contain supporting documents that will make your plan more valid and compelling to me to add any license, certification, or qualifications to this section of your business plan. 

You need to put in your all-in commitment to your work to start your graphic design business in 2023. There is also a need to have a clear understanding of the market and any potential competitors you might encounter in your industry. You will also need to pay special attention to your target market. If you maintain a strong online presence and promote your website through digital marketing, then you will scale up your business in no time. The road to success is clear; you only need to follow the right route. 

It can cost approximately £18,000 to £23,000 to start a graphic design business in the UK. However, this cost can also differ depending on how advanced you want your business to be. If it is a more detailed start-up then it would cost you more. 

Graphic design can be classified on a freelance basis and can create materials for corporate clients, advertising agencies, public relations firms, and publishers, inclusive. They can also work as full-timers that provide visual solutions to a particular problem a company might be facing. 

When starting up as a designer, there are some important tools you need to show off your abilities efficiently. You will need a laptop, a high-resolution monitor, a portable hard drive, a graphics tablet, and some color swatches for extra creativity and practicality. As you expand more in your business, you might also discover more handling equipment you might need. 

Aside from following the above steps to create a compelling graphic design business plan for your company, you also need to make use of a template checklist. The essence of a checklist is to help you keep track of all the necessary processes you need to achieve while starting your new business. 

• Understand your skill
• Develop your skills.
• Identify your potential clients.
• Carry out a competitive analysis
• Set your price.
• Get your legal certification.
• Get a workspace 
• Design your marketing plan.

Before you think about finding a client, you must do some basic research to identify who your target audience really is. They can be large and medium corporate companies or even small local businesses. Once you have this information, then you will need to develop a marketing strategy that will enable you to find and attract your potential clients. 

Aside from the work and difficulty that are involved with being a graphic designer, it has also proven to be a highly reputable job in the UK that can earn you good cash. An average UK graphic designer earns a total of £31,000 a year and £12.37 per hour. 

If you are not a new designer, it is advisable to charge your services based on your portfolio or previous clients. However, if you are starting new in the industry and have had no clients in the past, it is best to charge according to other graphic designers in the industry. You can engage in market research to discover how much to charge, and from this, you will get an idea of how you want to charge your clients.  

The seven types of graphic design can be said to be product design, animation design, branding design, website design, print design, publishing design, and environmental design. With these options, a graphic designer will then choose a specific niche to work on.

Creating a business plan from scratch is a daunting task, especially when it is your first time, so you are not alone. It is understandable if you got hooked on a particular section of your plan, all you need is a little help, and I’ve got just the right idea. 

Have you tried using a professional pre-made graphic design business plan made by us? At Businessyield Consult, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs like you compose a professional business plan that works! We have helped multiple businesses and are looking forward to helping more. Grab a copy here and get your business on the go .

Once you have gotten hold of your graphic design business plan, it does not just end with having a plan. If you want your graphic design business to grow, you will need to constantly make adjustments to every little update and information about your business. When you make those changes, you can then measure if you are making progress or not. 

A graphic design business does not need a large space and location to start. As a graphic designer, all you need is a desk, table, and a laptop set-up or study space and you are good to go. If you are working with a large group of people, then you should consider getting an affordable co-working space for a start. 

A graphic design business does not need many requirements to start up. You only need to register your business with the government and get insurance for your company. You will also need copyrighting, trademarking, licensing, tax requirements, and some legal policies just to keep your business valid. 

As a graphic designer, there are some skills that can help you scale more. brand strategy, logo designing, social media branding, animation, typography, web designing, creating brochures, infographics, and some poster design skills. You can register for some courses that can help you acquire these skills if you lack any. 

Related Articles

• SMALL BUSINESS IDEAS IN UK: 65+ Profitable Ideas
• MORTGAGE BROKER TOOLS: The Best Marketing Tools for Mortgage Brokers
• BUSINESS PLAN COVER PAGE: How To Write Your Business Plan Cover Page

Kenechukwu Muoghalu

Kenny, an accomplished business writer with a decade of experience, excels in translating intricate industry insights into engaging articles. Her passion revolves around distilling the latest trends, offering actionable advice, and nurturing a comprehensive understanding of the business landscape. With a proven track record of delivering insightful content, Kenny is dedicated to empowering her readers with the knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of business.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How to Start an Estate Agency: Easy Guide For Beginners

Food truck business plan: best easy guide in 2023.

We noticed you're visiting from Netherlands. We've updated our prices to Euro for your shopping convenience. Use Pound sterling instead. Dismiss

How to Start a Profitable Graphic Design Business [11 Steps]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 02, 2024

Business Steps:

1. perform market analysis., 2. draft a graphic design business plan., 3. develop a graphic design brand., 4. formalize your business registration., 5. acquire necessary licenses and permits for graphic design., 6. open a business bank account and secure funding as needed., 7. set pricing for graphic design services., 8. acquire graphic design equipment and supplies., 9. obtain business insurance for graphic design, if required., 10. begin marketing your graphic design services., 11. expand your graphic design business..

Starting a graphic design business requires a thorough understanding of the current market. An effective market analysis will help you identify your target audience, understand the competitive landscape, and align your services with market needs. Follow these steps to perform an in-depth market analysis:

• Research your target demographic by gathering data on potential clients who need graphic design services, such as small businesses, publishers, or advertisers.
• Analyze competitors by reviewing their service offerings, pricing structures, and market positioning to identify gaps and opportunities for differentiation.
• Examine industry trends by staying updated with design publications, blogs, and forums to anticipate future demands and emerging design styles or technologies.
• Survey potential clients to gain insights into their specific needs, preferences, and pain points regarding graphic design services.
• Assess the supply and demand within the market, looking at the number of available designers versus the quantity of work available, to gauge market saturation.
• Identify potential niches or areas of specialization where your skills or unique approach could fulfill unmet market needs or solve specific problems.

Are graphic design businesses profitable?

Yes, graphic design businesses can be very profitable. Depending on the services they provide and the pricing structure they use, graphic design businesses can generate significant income and profits. Many graphic designers focus on providing services to local businesses, while others focus on creating unique artwork for a global clientele. With effective marketing strategies, a well-developed portfolio, and a commitment to client satisfaction, any graphic design business can be successful.

Creating a business plan is crucial for the success of your graphic design enterprise. It outlines your business objectives, strategies, and how you plan to achieve your goals. Here's a concise guide to drafting your graphic design business plan:

• Define your business goals: Establish clear, measurable, and realistic goals for your business that you aim to achieve within specific timeframes.
• Identify your target market: Research and describe your ideal clients, their needs, and how your services will meet those needs.
• Analyze competitors: Understand your competition, their strengths and weaknesses, and how you can differentiate yourself in the market.
• Services and pricing: List the services you will offer, including specialized design work, and determine a pricing strategy that reflects your skills and market demand.
• Marketing and sales strategies: Develop a plan on how you will attract and retain clients through various marketing channels and sales tactics.
• Financial projections: Prepare realistic revenue forecasts, budget for expenses, and plan for cash flow management.
• Operational plan: Outline the daily operations of your business, including the tools and resources needed for your design work.

How does a graphic design business make money?

A graphic design business makes money by providing graphic design services to target audiences. For example, a company offering 11 Steps to Starting a Successful Spice Business may target aspiring entrepreneurs looking to start their own business. The graphic design business could provide services such as creating logo designs, website designs, and printed materials such as pamphlets and posters to help the business promote itself. In return, the business will charge an hourly rate or a flat fee for the service provided. This revenue would then be used to keep the graphic design business running.

Creating a strong graphic design brand is vital for distinguishing your business in a competitive market. Your brand should reflect your unique style, values, and the quality of work you deliver. Here are some guidelines to help you develop your graphic design brand:

• Define Your Brand Personality: Decide on the character and tone you want your brand to convey - professional, creative, quirky, sophisticated, or approachable.
• Design a Memorable Logo: Your logo should be distinctive and scalable, working across various mediums from business cards to billboards.
• Choose Your Color Palette: Select colors that not only complement each other but also communicate your brand's personality and values.
• Create a Consistent Visual Style: Apply your logo, color palette, and typography consistently across all your marketing materials and online presence.
• Develop a Tagline: Craft a succinct, memorable tagline that encapsulates what you do and what sets you apart.
• Build a Portfolio: Showcase your best work that aligns with your brand's focus, demonstrating your skills and range.
• Establish an Online Presence: Create a professional website and actively engage on social media platforms where your target audience is present.

How to come up with a name for your graphic design business?

Brainstorming is the best way to come up with a name for a graphic design business. Think of words that relate to graphic design and combine them with words that have a personal meaning to you. Look for names that are unique and memorable, so they stand out from other design businesses. Seek feedback from family and friends on different name ideas, as they may be able to provide useful insights. Ultimately, the process of choosing a business name should be enjoyable and creative.

Once you've honed your graphic design skills and crafted a business plan, the next crucial step is formalizing your business registration. This process gives your business a legal structure, protecting your personal assets and establishing credibility with clients. Follow these guidelines to ensure proper registration:

• Choose a Business Structure: Decide on the legal structure of your business—such as sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, or corporation—which will impact your taxes, liability, and business operations.
• Register Your Business Name: If your business name is different from your own, you may need to register a Doing Business As (DBA). Check with local and state authorities for specific naming rules and registration processes.
• Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Research which licenses and permits you need to legally operate your graphic design business, which can vary by location, industry, and other factors.
• Apply for an EIN: If your business structure requires it, apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes, even if you don't have employees.
• Register for State Taxes: Depending on your location, you may need to register for state taxes, such as sales tax or unemployment insurance.
• Open a Business Bank Account: Keep your personal and business finances separate by opening a business bank account, which often requires your EIN and business registration documents.

Resources to help get you started:

Explore vital resources ideal for graphic design entrepreneurs aiming for market insights, operational excellence, and strategic growth advice:

• AIGA | Eye on Design: Explores the world's most exciting designers and uncovers the trends before they're trends. Visit site
• Graphic Design USA (GDUSA): Offers news, trends, and projects in the graphic design industry. Visit site
• The Futur: Provides educational videos and podcasts on design and business strategies. Visit site
• Behance: Showcases latest work from top online portfolios by creative professionals across industries. Visit site
• Design Week: Features the latest from the design world, including graphics, branding, interiors, digital, product, and more. Visit site
• Smashing Magazine: Offers articles on web design, graphic design, and user experience with practical advice and examples. Visit site

Starting a graphic design business involves more than just creativity and the ability to design. It's crucial to ensure that your business operates legally by acquiring the necessary licenses and permits. Depending on your location and the nature of your services, the requirements may vary. Here are the steps to guide you through the process:

• Research Local Regulations: Check with your city or county clerk's office for local business license requirements. You may also need a zoning permit if you work from home.
• Obtain a Business License: Apply for a general business license. This is a basic permit that allows you to operate a business in your city or county.
• Special Permits: If you plan to sell goods along with your services, you might need a seller's permit or a resale certificate.
• Professional Business Licenses: Some jurisdictions may require a specific professional license for graphic design services. Check with your state's business licensing office.
• Trademark Your Brand: Consider registering your business name and logo as a trademark to protect your brand identity.
• Stay Updated: Licenses and permits have expiration dates. Keep track of renewal deadlines to maintain compliance.

What licenses and permits are needed to run a graphic design business?

To run a graphic design business, you may need the following licenses and permits, depending on your local laws and regulations:

• Business or professional license from your city, county or state
• Certificate of Occupancy
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Sales Tax Permit Number
• Sign Permit
• Zoning Permits or Clearance Certificates

Opening a business bank account is a vital step for separating personal and business finances, while securing funding ensures you have the capital needed to grow your graphic design business. Below are the vital steps to take in order to establish your financial foundation and secure the necessary funds.

• Research banks and credit unions to find the best business banking options, considering fees, services, and convenience.
• Gather required documents including your business license, EIN, and ownership agreements to open your account.
• Apply for a business credit card to help manage expenses and build your company's credit history.
• Explore different funding options, such as small business loans, lines of credit, or grants tailored for creative industries or entrepreneurs.
• Consider crowdfunding or reaching out to angel investors if your business model is particularly innovative or has high growth potential.
• Create a solid business plan to present to potential lenders or investors, showcasing your market analysis, services, and financial projections.
• Keep a close eye on your cash flow once you start operating, ensuring you have enough funds to cover business expenses and growth initiatives.

Pricing your graphic design services appropriately is crucial to ensuring a profitable and sustainable business. Consider the value you bring to clients, your experience, and the market rates. Below are guidelines to help set your prices:

• Assess Your Costs: Calculate your overhead costs, software subscriptions, hardware investments, and any other business expenses to establish a baseline for your pricing.
• Research Market Rates: Look into what other graphic designers with similar skills and experience are charging to gauge competitive pricing.
• Value-Based Pricing: Set prices based on the value and results your design work offers to clients rather than just the time spent.
• Offer Packages: Create service bundles with set prices for common design needs like branding packages, social media graphics, or web design.
• Consider Licensing and Rights: Factor in the cost for different levels of usage rights or exclusivity that you may provide to clients.
• Be Transparent: Clearly communicate your pricing structure to avoid misunderstandings and to build trust with clients.
• Review Regularly: Periodically review your pricing to ensure it remains fair for both you and your clients and adjusts for your growing experience and inflation.

What does it cost to start a graphic design business?

Initiating a graphic design business can involve substantial financial commitment, the scale of which is significantly influenced by factors such as geographical location, market dynamics, and operational expenses, among others. Nonetheless, our extensive research and hands-on experience have revealed an estimated starting cost of approximately $4100 for launching such an business. Please note, not all of these costs may be necessary to start up your graphic design business.

Having the right tools is essential for delivering high-quality graphic design services. From powerful hardware to creative software, acquiring the necessary equipment and supplies will set the foundation for your business. Here are some key items to consider for your graphic design setup:

• Computer: Invest in a reliable, high-performance computer with a color-accurate monitor for designing and multitasking efficiently.
• Graphic Tablet: A graphic tablet or drawing monitor can greatly enhance precision and control in digital illustration and photo editing.
• Design Software: Purchase or subscribe to industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
• Printer: A high-quality printer can produce proofs and small runs of client work. Consider color accuracy and resolution in your selection.
• Storage: Secure digital storage solutions, such as external hard drives or cloud services, are essential for backing up and archiving projects.
• Office Supplies: Stock up on basics such as sketchbooks, pens, markers, and paper for initial concept drafting and note-taking.
• Color Reference Guides: Pantone color guides or other color reference tools can help with color matching and selection.
• Desk and Chair: An ergonomic workspace with a comfortable chair and ample desk space is vital for long hours of work.

List of software, tools and supplies needed to start a graphic design business:

• Computer: $700-$3000
• Design Software: $30-$400/month
• High-quality Printer: $1000-$3000
• Photo Editing Software: Free-Paid
• Logo Design Software: $50-$200
• Adobe Creative Cloud Subscription: $99/month
• Scanner: $200-$500
• Storage and Backup Device: $100-$1000+
• Business Card Design Software: Free-Paid
• Social Media Management Software: Free-Paid

Ensuring your graphic design business is protected with the right insurance is a crucial step. It not only safeguards your operations but also provides peace of mind as you serve your clients. Here's a quick guide on obtaining the necessary business insurance:

• Professional Liability Insurance: Also known as errors and omissions insurance, this coverage can protect you in case of claims alleging negligence or mistakes in your work.
• General Liability Insurance: This insurance protects against claims of bodily injury or property damage caused by your business activities.
• Business Owners Policy (BOP): A BOP typically combines general liability with property insurance, often at a more affordable rate than purchasing them separately.
• Property Insurance: If you own or lease a physical space, property insurance will cover equipment and inventory in the event of damage or theft.
• Home-Based Business Insurance: If you work from home, your homeowner's policy might not cover business-related claims, so consider a policy that does.
• Workers' Compensation: If you have employees, most states will require you to carry workers' compensation insurance.

Always consult with an insurance agent or broker who specializes in business policies to ensure you get coverage tailored to your specific needs.

Now that your graphic design business is set up, it's time to spread the word and attract clients. Effective marketing is key to establishing your brand and generating interest. Here are some essential steps to kickstart your marketing efforts:

• Build a Portfolio: Create a professional online portfolio showcasing your best work. This will serve as your visual resume and help potential clients gauge your style and capabilities.
• Utilize Social Media: Leverage platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook to display your work, share updates, and engage with your audience.
• Networking: Attend industry meetups, conferences, and other events to connect with potential clients and fellow designers.
• Content Marketing: Start a blog or YouTube channel offering design tips and insights, establishing yourself as an expert in the field.
• Email Marketing: Collect emails through your website and send out newsletters with your latest projects, offers, and design news.
• Referral Programs: Encourage word-of-mouth marketing by offering incentives to clients who refer new business to you.
• Collaborate: Partner with other businesses or influencers to expand your reach and tap into new networks.
• Paid Advertising: Consider using targeted ads on Google or social media to reach potential clients actively searching for design services.

As your graphic design business matures, it's time to look at expansion strategies to scale up and reach new markets. Whether through diversifying your services, leveraging online platforms, or forming strategic partnerships, growth is within reach. Here are some key points to consider for expanding your graphic design business:

• Explore New Markets: Research and target new industries or niches that could benefit from your design expertise.
• Diversify Services: Offer additional services such as web design, animation, or social media management to provide a more comprehensive package to your clients.
• Invest in Marketing: Increase your marketing efforts through social media advertising, content marketing, and attending industry events to gain more exposure.
• Build a Team: Hire additional designers or freelancers to increase your capacity for taking on new projects.
• Collaborate with Others: Form partnerships with complementary businesses to offer bundled services to clients.
• Improve Online Presence: Optimize your website for SEO, maintain an active blog, and showcase your portfolio to attract more online traffic.
• Seek Client Feedback: Regularly solicit feedback and testimonials from clients to improve your services and build social proof.

Work with me

Home         Blog        Shop        Course        Work Style Quiz        Contact

A Business Plan for Freelance Graphic Designers

There were so many times in my business that I just stopped in my tracks. I was working on something for so long, like a client project, that when I was done I almost didn’t know what was next. I was missing a small business plan that really worked for me.

The ironic thing about freezing up and not knowing what to do is that we most likely have a long list already made. And that list has all of the good intentions to grow your business. However, the priorities are a little blurred when there is so much busyness all around.

I love using project management software for my business (Asana and Notion). I always had a section on there to brainstorm ideas. But oftentimes they would just stay there and never go anywhere. And when I would finally get around to looking at it, I’d close the window!

In those times, I’m running around like a headless chicken trying to figure out my next step. I learned from school and also from a few resources about how to make a formal business plan. It was very daunting, structured, and a little hard to follow.

I think the reason for that is small business plans are different for solo entrepreneurs and designers. We constantly have to be moving and thinking on our feet. The best thing to do is to create a more flexible business plan that actually makes sense for a  graphic designer.

Regularly ask yourself what you want for your graphic design business

My assumption is that most of us are not asking ourselves questions often enough. We evolve as business owners and as people.  We go through phases of life or struggles, and suddenly those things that were once important aren’t anymore. And we may have redefined values.

Because we are always changing, it should be a regular practice to ask yourself what you want. First of all, do you like what you’re doing? Are you in the right headspace? Is it good for your mental health? Is it helping with creativity? Is it healthy for your relationships?

It’s crucial to audit your business in terms of your lifestyle. The goal of having a design business should be to enhance your life based on your definitions of that. Check on yourself every quarter and make sure everything is in alignment.

Add short and long-term goals to the small business plan

I know some people like to ask you what your 5 and 10-year goals are. It really depends on how you like to imagine these things. For me, I have a vision of what I’d like my future self to be, but it’s really hard to see that far out.

If you’re able to do so, envisioning your life that far ahead is a great skill, and you can write all of that down. But if you can’t, don’t fret. Because sometimes the short-term goals are just as good and helpful for your business.

Annual business plan

Start with an annual plan and then work backward.  I tend to be on the more conservative and practical side and often don’t practice dreaming big. But don’t be like me!

You should absolutely be stretching your goals to something you can’t even imagine right now.  list out these items and you can add or remove them to your liking:

• Annual income
• Number of clients
• Type of clients
• Average price of services
• Types/streams of income
• Number of hours worked (broken up by week)
• Relationships

I kept it pretty broad because I want you to interpret this in a way that makes sense for you. Write down what excites you and figure out how you can make your design business support these things. Besides being a long-term plan, this is really a mindset exercise to get you to start thinking of your business working for you.

Your mission and vision

I love creating an annual plan first because it can manifest what I want in life. I can see from here what my true priorities are, and it is easier to figure out my vision.  You’ve written out what’s most important to you and your ambition to accomplish it.

You know what kind of service is you want to offer and who you want to help. That right there is your mission.

Put it at the top of your business plan so you can be reminded of it. It will help you not stray too far if you’re feeling that shiny object syndrome.

Weekly + monthly plan

You can now break up your annual plan to come up with your weekly and monthly plans. What do you need to do in order to reach your goals this month? How can you divide that by the weeks?

Create an Asana board (or any other project management tool. Google Sheets or Airtable work really well too), and break up your workweek.

Categorize and prioritize your small business plan by timeline

It’s time to categorize these into more digestible tasks. If you want two large clients a month, you have to figure out who these clients could potentially be and where you can find them.

So maybe in this case your ideal clients are on Instagram. Now you have to come up with an Instagram strategy where you put out content that attracts them.  You can also message certain businesses and connect with them.

Next, add time for social media marketing and content creation in a way that helps you do it every week.

Keep your design business plan flexible

Even though you have everything written down, it doesn’t have to be rigid. Always remind yourself of your vision, and for this year that should pretty much stay the same. Your approaches to your clients and marketing will be the flexible part.

There are so many new things coming out that will help you during this time whether those are resources, software, or other tools.  On the other hand, platforms are constantly changing which may make things more difficult. Adapting to the changes is what will keep your business strong as long as you keep your overall messaging consistent.

Related Posts

« ideal clients: find ones that are made for you, font styles for your brand: typography basics ».

Do you have your website on Showit? Get this free template to add a beautiful lead magnet page on your site and start growing your email list today.

Showit Lead Magnet Template

Website template freebie.

Get the free template

Need customer-focused brand & web design to build loyal fans.

What's your ideal work method as a creative entrepreneur?

Take the quiz

Copyright © 2023 | Franzine Elaine - Breezy Camper LLC | All Rights Reserved

HOME SERVICES VIP INTENSIVES PORTFOLIO

BLOG CONTACT PRIVACY POLICY PHOTO CREDIT

Get branding and mindful productivity resources sent to your inbox, @franzine_elaine.

• Business Ideas
• Registered Agents

How to Start a Graphic Design Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Updated:   January 25, 2024

BusinessGuru.co is reader-supported. When you buy through links on my site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The graphic design business is on the way up, earning more than $7 billion in 2022. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2022 to 2029 is projected at 9.8%. This means the market could reach more than $14 billion by 2029.

This steady growth presents a lucrative opportunity for aspiring business owners looking to monetize their creative talents. However, the graphic design space comes with its fair share of challenges. Aspiring graphic designers must not only hone their artistic abilities but also develop sharp business acumen to stand out from the ever-increasing competition.

This guide offers insight on how to start a graphic design business. Topics include market research, competitive analysis, registering an EIN, obtaining business insurance, forming an LLC, and customer focus.

1. Conduct Graphic Design Market Research

Market research is an integral part of starting a business as a graphic designer. It helps you understand the marketplace, design a business plan, learn about trends in the market, and more. Some of the details you’ll learn through graphic design market research include:

• The best prospects can be found in specialized niche markets like website design, animation, sticker creation, traditional marketing graphical content, marketing materials, and logo creation.
• Catering to local small businesses is especially profitable as they invest heavily in building memorable brands on tight budgets.
• Industry profit margins range from 9% for general design firms to 17% for niche service providers.
• With low startup costs, profitability can be achieved relatively quickly.
• Standing out requires not just creative talent but equally sharp business skills.
• Strategically identifying profitable niches, ideal customer profiles, and early marketing efforts are key to success.
• Utilizing digital channels to establish authority and generate leads is the most cost-effective initially.

Small businesses especially prefer to engage local talent. Industry analysis indicates a high-growth market with rewarding opportunities. Achieving profitability requires strategic positioning, and a dual focus on design and business capabilities to overcome initial hurdles.

2. Analyze the Competition

Firstly, identify direct competitors in your locality using online business directories like Yelp.

Some ways to learn about competitors as a business owner running a freelance graphic design business include:

• Analyze the services offered, pricing models, clientele mix, and marketing content across their websites and social media pages.
• Drive-by visits allow assessment of office location, signage, interiors, and foot traffic.
• Expand research to indirect competitors like general design firms offering similar services.
• Building niche expertise gives an edge here.
• Evaluate industry leaders nationally for inspiration on positioning tactics too.
• Monitoring online sentiment across review sites and social media highlights pain points to avoid.
• It also surfaces what makes competitors stand out positively.
• Track their digital analytics using SimilarWeb to benchmark monthly traffic, lead sources, and engagement.

Competitive analysis among freelance graphic designers provides insight into seasonal trends, successful promotions, and overall traction. These provide an informed blueprint to launch your differentiated services.

3. Costs to Start a Graphic Design Business

Starting a graphic design business requires careful financial planning and cost considerations before taking the entrepreneurial plunge. There will be startup and ongoing costs throughout the life of running your own graphic design business. Here we’ll break those business expenses down.

Start-Up Costs

The starting costs focus on one-time investments to lay the operational groundwork. These startup costs are essential to obtaining your business license, drawing in prospective clients, building a business website, leasing office space, and more. Here are some common startup costs:

• Legal Fees: Business formation and trademark registration could cost $700 and upwards depending on entity type and state regulations. Sole proprietors can register a DBA for under $100.
• Equipment: A MacBook Pro or iMac for design work costs between $1300 – $4000 new based on specifications.
• Additional monitors to expand the workspace run from $250. Software like Adobe CC has monthly plans from $20.98 per user but annual options save overall.
• Office Space: Coworking spaces offer flexible membership plans to operate from $150 to $500 monthly across major US cities.
• Renting office space starts from $15 per sq. ft. Leasing full-time can cost $2,000+ monthly.
• Consulting & Advisory Services: Getting input from a Small Business Development Center consultant or SCORE mentor helps avoid costly mistakes. Fees range from $100 to $150 per hour.

In total, graphic designers can launch functional agencies with as little as $2,500 upfront if opting for more budget-friendly or DIY approaches. Of course, investing more upfront in high-end tools and dedicated office space provides more credibility.

Ongoing Costs

Every business faces ongoing expenses to keep the company going. Balancing business finances requires a firm understanding of where these costs come from. Common ongoing expenses to factor into your budget include:

• Salaries: Based on PayScale data, the average junior graphic designer’s salary starts from $36,000 annually. More experienced senior designers can earn $65,000+ per year.
• Software and Cloud Services: Besides main Adobe apps, additional subscriptions like file sharing systems ($30 to $75 per user monthly) prove handy along with website and hosting packages ($15 to $45 monthly).
• Marketing & Advertising: Dedicate 5-10% of total revenue towards self-promotion across digital channels and offline options like print, sponsorships, and events. Costs scale accordingly.

On the higher end, investing $15,000 upfront in equipment, hire, and promotion allows for broader capabilities and capacity. Eventually, achieving annual revenues of $40,000 helps attain healthy profit margins given capped overheads.

4. Form a Legal Business Entity

The right business structure is key for graphic designers to balance legal protections, tax implications, and operating flexibility as entrepreneurial ventures. Common legal business entities include sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies, and corporations.

Sole Proprietorships

Offer the easiest setup with no formal registration needed in most states. However, the owner assumes unlimited liability for debts and claims. Income gets reported on personal returns. This works well for freelancers but assets remain at risk as businesses scale.

Partnerships

Allow sharing ownership between two or more designers. A formal partnership agreement governs rights and profit distributions. However, every partner bears responsibility for collective liabilities too. Decision conflicts also tend to emerge frequently.

Provide the best of both worlds – limited liability shield along with pass-through taxation. Ownership splits are flexible via percentage membership interests. Costs range from $100 onwards for state registration and the only annual legal need is a return filing. This hybrid structure works perfectly for small creative agencies.

Corporations

Ensure the highest business liability protection but come with more complex compliance in terms of taxes, record-keeping, and reporting. Ownership via stocks also complicates profit-sharing. Incorporating generally benefits larger design firms managing bigger financial and legal risks.

5. Register Your Business For Taxes

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) serves as a unique tax ID for business entities to identify themselves to tax authorities. Even small graphic design firms structured as sole proprietors or single-member LLCs require one by law for various reasons:

• Filing and paying estimated taxes tied to company income
• Opening business bank accounts
• Processing payments from clients
• Managing employees down the line

Applying online takes less than 15 minutes via the official IRS portal. Simply provide entity details, ownership information, and contact data as prompted. Both domestic and foreign businesses can qualify for free. Once submitted, the EIN gets issued immediately.

This ID number then goes on all official tax paperwork. Schedule C filers report it when submitting 1040 returns. Incorporated firms use it across quarterly reporting documents like 941, 940, and W-2/W-3 forms.

Those making physical goods also need sales tax permits in their particular state. Registering for relevant licenses, accounts and certificates ensures full compliance. Fees depend on individual locality rules but the application process remains straightforward.

6. Setup Your Accounting

Proper financial management is crucial for graphic design business owners to maximize profits and ensure full legal compliance. Implementing the right accounting systems and expert support from the start prevents issues down the line.

Accounting Software

Using small business accounting software like QuickBooks automatically tracks income, expenses, account reconciliations, and taxes without manual effort. Seamless connectivity with bank/credit card feeds, invoicing, and payroll simplifies reporting needs. Plans start from $25 per month with the core system covering all essential workflows.

Hire an Accountant

Working with an accountant is still advisable for optimal accuracy. Yearly services average around $800 but the investment offers multiple advantages. Bookkeeping assistance properly categorizes every business transaction and identifies deductible expenses. Accountants also file quarterly sales tax returns and finalize annual income tax paperwork.

Open a Business Bank Account

Keeping business and personal finances completely separate is crucial as well from both bank account and credit card perspectives. Business-only accounts and cards help accurately track company earnings/costs for reporting. It also provides transparency if external funding is ever needed.

Apply for a Business Credit Card

Applying for a small business credit card only requires basic details like EINs, company financials, and the owner’s credit scores. The process is quite similar to personal applications. However, approved credit limits correlate directly to demonstrated business revenues and assets.

7. Obtain Licenses and Permits

Starting a graphic design business involves more than just creative and operational prep. Find federal license information through the U.S. Small Business Administration . The SBA also offers a local search tool for state and city requirements.

Also called tax registration certificates, business licenses verify compliance across all reporting like income taxes, payroll taxes, and sales tax collection needs to be tied to the particular state. Fees are under $100 in most cases.

For designers selling physical products like logos on merchandise or prints, securing sales tax permits allows legally collecting and remitting dues on such transactions States levy anywhere from 2% to 7% on goods sold.

For sole proprietorships or partnerships not operating under legal owner names, filing a DBA allows the registration of a professional business name. The registration cost is under $50 across most states.

For ventures opting for physical retail spaces, construction compliance ensures the site meets state codes for legal occupancy. From parking needs to restroom access and more, various aspects get evaluated before permit approval.

In addition, most cities also have zoning regulations around allowable property usage for commercial space rentals and purchases. Checking these proactively prevents wasted investments into sites that get denied later. Pittsburgh city planners for instance do not allow creative office spaces in core downtown zones.

8. Get Business Insurance

Business insurance serves as a financial safety net to keep graphic design agencies protected from unexpected legal and property liabilities. Lacking adequate coverage could potentially bankrupt companies in many scenarios:

A client slips during a meeting at your commercial office space and sustains injuries needing urgent medical treatment and extended care. Without liability insurance, the legal claim and compensation costs fall directly on your business.

A hard disk failure erases months of client design files and work-in-progress deliverables before backups occur. The lack of contingency plans leads to breached contracts and lawsuits from affected customers.

An electrical fire sparked by faulty office equipment destroys computers containing vital accounting data and intellectual property like branding guidebooks. Lacking protection from such disasters directly impacts business continuity.

To ensure full protection as per unique risks, graphic design entrepreneurs can connect with specialized brokers to guide them through tailored plans. The typical process includes:

• Discussing Business Model, Assets, and Locations: This overview helps gauge exposure areas.
• Evaluating Potential Threats: Fraud, property damage, data loss, legal issues.
• Exploring Insurance Options: General liability, errors & omissions, commercial property, data and equipment coverage, etc.
• Comparing Premium Quotes: Rates vary based on assets insured and claim history.
• Finalizing a Custom Plan: Ensures optimal protection based on the agency size, services, and clients.

Legal compliance also mandates Worker’s Compensation insurance once staff gets hired. Staying vigilant and responsively addressing ever-evolving risks keeps companies shielded from long-term success.

9. Create an Office Space

Dedicating work areas for creative tasks and client meetings is pivotal for optimal graphic design business operations. Options balancing convenience, professional perception, and cost include:

Home Offices

Converting basements or spare rooms into design studios allows easy access to assets needed for digital work like computers and software subscriptions. It promotes flexible schedules without rental overheads too. However, home offices lack client meeting spaces and keep work-life boundaries blurred. Cost is limited to desk and storage expenses from $300 upwards.

Coworking Spaces

Shared work environments like WeWork offer both open desk spots and private offices for individuals or small teams on flexible plans starting at around $300 a month. The community facilitates collaboration while amenities like meeting rooms, cafes, and event spaces provide full business functionality. However, spaces fill up fast in core city locations.

Commercial Office Spaces

Getting dedicated premises in business complexes allows the branding of custom units fully as per a company’s creative vision with waiting lounges to impress clients. Pricing averages $20 per sq. ft. but multi-year leases ensure stability. The main drawbacks are substantial security deposits and fitting out costs scaling to thousands based on specifications.

10. Source Your Equipment

Launching a graphic design business requires key equipment investments in high-spec computers and creative software. Aspiring entrepreneurs have options across buying, leasing, and even financing routes.

New iMacs or PC workstations meeting processing capacities for design tools like Adobe Creative Cloud run $1000 upwards from retailers like Apple, HP, and Dell. Multi-monitor setups improve workflows too. Software bundles and cloud storage upgrades cost extra based on the intended usage scale.

Opting for used devices lets entrepreneurs repurpose functioning Mac systems or PCs cast off by companies upgrading staff equipment within limited budgets. Marketplaces like Craigslist , Facebook Marketplace , and eBay offer reliable finds at 40-60% discounts.

Renting workstations monthly allows for utilizing cutting-edge gear without major capital costs. Rental rates often include unlimited technical support and maintenance too. The flexible terms work well for new ventures still stabilizing financially.

Leasing via issuers like AlignCredit works akin to car financing where affordable monthly payments secure equipment ownership eventually. Credit history impacts approval odds and interest rates. The main benefit is acquiring advanced creative gear from the start minus large lump-sum payments.

11. Establish Your Brand Assets

Establishing a strong brand presence is vital for graphic design agencies to stand out in an increasingly competitive industry. Tactically leveraging visual assets and marketing collateral helps reinforce expertise and quality to prospects.

Get a Business Phone Number

Acquiring a unique business phone number via providers like RingCentral enables listing key details across online and offline directories for easy discoverability. Call routing functionality also redirects calls seamlessly across devices.

Design a Logo

A sleek, memorable logo designed through online services like Looka forms the cornerstone of all brand imaging. Bold, vibrant designs aligned to the specialty like responsive web templates convey niche focus. Complimentary letterheads, social media, and website assets ensure cohesion.

Print Business Cards

Business cards from Vistaprint enable conveniently introducing the agency during client meetings, conferences, and networking events. Collecting contact details from potential customers to follow up on project opportunities leads to deals. Outdoor signage at office entrances also assists walk-in visitors.

Buy a Domain Name

Securing aligned domain names via registrars like Namecheap provides an anchor web presence to highlight services, work samples, and achievements. Exact match domains with area codes in names like ChicagoGraphicDesign.com optimize SEO as well.

Design a Website

Leveraging DIY website builders like Wix offers easy drag-and-drop solutions to publish online portfolios for as low as $10 a month. For advanced custom designs, specialized freelancers on Fiverr provide affordable packages too.

12. Join Associations and Groups

Beyond online platforms, graphic designers can exponentially expand professional networks and opportunities by engaging local industry communities.

Local Associations

Seeking out regional creative alliances like the Ohio Design Association provides visibility at open networking events, conferences, and mentoring programs. Learning best practices from seasoned visual experts in person often leads to referrals.

Local Meetups

Regularly attending marketing meetups via Eventbrite and Meetup surfaces potential clients too. Tradeshows enable showcasing portfolios to various vendors and businesses seeking branding services. The connections made seed longer-term partnerships.

Facebook Groups

Facebook also hosts various relevant groups like The Interior Designer’s Business Launchpad spanning over 10,000 global members. Seeking feedback on portfolio pieces receives constructive critiquing for improvement from thousands quickly. Job openings get posted here widely as well.

13. How to Market a Graphic Design Business

Implementing marketing campaigns helps graphic design businesses continually acquire new clients. Balancing digital and traditional promotion based on target customer preferences maximizes returns on investment.

Personal Networking

Leveraging existing client networks to source referrals remains invaluable initially. Offering referral bonuses or discounts on future services for customers who recommend the agency helps incentivize endorsements organically.

Digital Marketing

Digital channels then enable scalable outreach to local prospects online. Tactics like:

• Google/Facebook Ads target buyers seeking related services in the area.
• YouTube Tutorials showcase expertise to both clients and talent prospects.
• Guest blog posts for regional publications highlight specific competencies.
• Cold emailing/calling campaigns tap relevant small business databases.
• Optimized LinkedIn profiles position services to corporates seeking vendors.

Traditional Marketing

Traditional options like:

• Print ads in local lifestyle magazines and trade journals increase visibility.
• Direct mail campaigns with service brochures target neighborhoods with many SMBs.
• Networking at Chamber events offers opportunities to impress prospects in person.
• Billboards strategically build brand awareness during commutes when attention is higher.
• Sponsoring art gallery showcases provides access to engaged prospects.

The optimal marketing mix includes digital and traditional channels prioritizing leads most likely to convert based on past clientele. Local events also enable making memorable impressions leading to referrals.

14. Focus on the Customer

Delivering exceptional customer service is pivotal for graphic design agencies to drive referrals and repeat business in a highly competitive sector. going beyond the creative execution of projects also earns trust and loyalty. Some ways to focus on customers in your own business include:

• For instance, being available promptly for scope changes and providing design iterations patiently ensures clients feel heard and prioritized.
• Meeting tight deadlines for last-minute projects accommodates urgent needs too.
• Checking in with clients proactively as deliverables get executed provides reassurance on progress and quality.
• Offering continued post-launch support for assets like logo files or brand guidelines retains accounts long-term as well.
• Surprising and delighting customers with value-adds also get noticed.
• Sending personalized cards during the holidays or even small gifts like printed mugs and t-shirts with their brand logos conveys the agency truly cares.

With exceptional service experiences, the odds of securing testimonials, reviews, and referrals to new leads increase substantially. This organic growth can accelerate profitability more than any marketing channel over time.

You Might Also Like

December 12, 2023

0  comments

How to Open an Art Gallery in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Now is the time for newcomers to consider opening an art gallery of their ...

December 4, 2023

The graphic design business is on the way up, earning more than $7 billion ...

September 11, 2023

How to Start a Craft Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

According to Business Research Insights, the global craft market could reach $74,457.88 million by ...

How to Start a Sticker Business in 14 Steps (In-Depth Guide)

Stickers are big business. The global die-cut sticker market is projected to reach $422.41 ...

Check Out Our Latest Articles

How to start a dog clothing business in 14 steps (in-depth guide), how to start a vintage clothing business in 14 steps (in-depth guide), how to start a bamboo clothing business in 14 steps (in-depth guide), how to start a garage cleaning business in 14 steps (in-depth guide).

We use cookies on our website to support technical features that enhance your user experience, and to help us improve our website. By continuing to use this website, you accept our privacy policy .

• Student Login
• No-Cost Professional Certificates
• Call Us: 888-549-6755
• 888-559-6763
• Search site Search our site Search Now Close
• Request Info

Skip to Content (Press Enter)

How to Start a Graphic Design Business: 16 Do's and Don'ts from the Pros

By Jess Scherman on 03/27/2018

Many up-and-coming graphic designers spend years working for various agencies or taking one-off freelance projects here and there before realizing their ultimate goal is to start their own business. It can feel like those first few years of experience have properly primed you to take full ownership of your career in this way—but do you really know what it takes to build and successfully run your own small business

It has been reported that eight of every 10 entrepreneurs who start their own small businesses fail within the first 18 months . So how can you ensure that you’re one of the few small-business hopefuls who finds success as you venture into this excitingly uncharted territory?

Whether you’re ready to start your own business today or just have some long-term ambitions, it’s good to know some of the common pitfalls—and the smart moves to avoid them—when starting a graphic design business. We consulted a handful of design professionals to learn their secrets for keeping a new graphic design business afloat and building it up to eventually achieve industry success. Take a look at their must-have list of do’s and don’ts for all design hopefuls.

16 Expert do’s & don’ts for starting a graphic design business

1. do remember your work has value.

One of the most prominent lessons many seasoned designers wish they knew starting out is how to value the price of their work to avoid getting sucked into a cycle of undercharging. “Know your value and stick to it,” encourages Bonnie Bryant O’Connor, owner of Bonnie Bryant Creative . Bryant says she understands the temptation to do work at cut-rate prices as you’re starting out, but you’ll quickly learn that cheap clients can rapidly drain your time, energy and talent.

“Do not undersell yourself because you’re ‘just starting out,’ and do not take work for referrals,” agrees Jill Caren, owner of 2 Dogs Design . “Be strong and confident in your work and charge a fair rate. Bringing on clients who minimize your value will never benefit you.”

2. DON’T underestimate the power of a strong portfolio

Once you’ve built up a stable list of clientele, client reviews and referrals will go a long way in securing you additional new work. But until you reach that level in your business, your portfolio is going to have to speak for itself.

Treat your portfolio as an opportunity to not only showcase your best work, but to also clearly display the diverse range of projects you’ve worked on—versatility can be valued just as highly as inherent skills in the design industry. If you haven’t garnered enough work for a robust portfolio in your current design experience, Carlos Williams, founder of DBC , suggests doing some pro bono work for a nonprofit or other small, local organization.

3. DO craft a business plan early on

Dennis Michael, owner and visual problem solver at Wake Creative , urges anyone who’s looking to start a graphic design business to understand that doing so means you’ll become both a graphic designer and a business owner. “This means you need to balance business development and design work at the same time,” he explains. “You cannot stay behind your computer and hope people come knocking. You need to network, connect, sell and market yourself.”

O’Connor agrees. “Make sure to let people know you’re open for business and have a marketing plan in place,” she says, suggesting up-and-coming designers showcase their work through well-curated Instagram accounts, impactful e-blasts and potentially even paid advertising on social media platforms if you can swing it. “No one’s going to hire you if they don’t know who you are and what you do.”

4. DON’T expect instant success

If there’s one thing you can all but expect, it’s that business will likely seem pretty lean in the early years. “You will have months where no revenue is coming in,” Michael ensures. He encourages all new business owners to have a plan in place for these moments so you’re able to keep your head above water, and to always persist. “If you can make it into years three, five or beyond, then you have something special.”

5. DO find a mentor

Whether you feel you’re lacking in terms of design skill or business savvy, it can be helpful to connect with a more seasoned professional you respect and from whom you’d like to learn. Those who have walked a similar path before you have invaluable insight that can spare you from or prepare you for a number of challenges many face starting out.

“A mentor can be a great asset to help you understand how to properly set up your business, understand the legal side of things and bring you a sense of security when you have questions,” Caren says. She suggests contacting a local SCORE office if you need help connecting with potential mentors in your field.

6. DON’T do work just for the exposure

Whether it’s a client that wants you to do spec (free) work or it’s a project you really don’t feel passionate about, O’Connor urges young designers to resist the urge to do work just for the exposure. “If it’s a big company or organization, then they absolutely have money in their marketing budget to pay you,” she explains. It’s also true that taking on projects that don’t excite you could both dull your senses of creativity while also potentially marketing you as a type of designer you’re not.

7. DO be authentic

“Taking control of your own creative work is the best reason to start a graphic design business,” Williams says. “You get to choose the type of work you do and who you work with.” Gaining the ability to have a say in the projects you take on is one of the primary reasons designers strive to establish their own brands.

This is why it can be important to firmly establish your design aesthetic early on. Even when you’re desperate for work, remaining authentic to your personal design mission can ensure you are set on the right path to continue doing the type of work you desire to do.

8. DON’T lose sight of your “why”

One thing Ellie Anne Dote, founder and owner of EllieGirl Creations , wishes she would have grasped more firmly when she was just starting out is the importance of maintaining her ultimate reason for owning her own business. “It’s not enough to just know the industry and figure you can be successful at it,” she says. “You need to know why you do what you do and let your work be an outflowing of that.”

Dote argues that if you don’t know why you’re designing, you’re setting yourself up for the possibility of being ripped apart by the latest trends, social pressures and design opinions.

9. DO trust your instincts

All self-starters know that making mistakes is part of the game—what’s most important is that you learn from them. “Listen to your gut and be confident in your decision making,” says Danielle Becker, founder and creative director of Lefty’s Right Mind .

Becker argues that both artistry and business are largely instinctual. “When you are a full-time employee, sales, finances, health insurance and all of that other ‘fun’ stuff is taken care of for you. Running your own company leaves you completely exposed,” she explains. Stepping out of your comfort zone in this way can be intimidating, but if you trust your instincts and learn from any mistakes you make, you’ll then become more well-rounded, both as a designer and an entrepreneur.

10. DON’T say yes to every project

“When I started my business, I was so desperate to make it that I was willing to take any job that came my way, no matter how small and whether I enjoyed it or not,” Dote says. “Because I was busy chasing after so many smaller projects, I missed larger opportunities and found myself taking on projects that didn’t fit with what I had intentionally set out to do.”

While you certainly want to stay busy in the early days of owning your own business, you should still be careful to keep your eye tuned toward the future and make sure the decisions you’re making in the short-term will benefit you in the long-term as well.

11. DO find your specialty or niche

You don’t need us to tell you that graphic designers can offer a wide range of services to clients. With such a large pool of potential projects and an indisputably deep well of prospective clients, you’ll be doing yourself some huge favors if you’re able to establish your specialty and your niche target market early on.

“While many designers can do anything from designing logos to rebranding websites to retouching photos, it’s key when starting your own business to survey what you like doing most, what others have mentioned you do particularly well and whether those services are things for which the current market is willing to pay,” says Angela Martin, speaker and owner of Defining Success Coaching . Becoming known as an expert in a few key areas, she adds, will undoubtedly help bring in more business.

12. DON’T pigeonhole your client base

As helpful as it can be to find your niche early on, up-and-coming business owners should also be mindful when it comes to diversifying your clientele. “Build various revenue channels, such as business-to-business, nonprofits and agency work,” suggests Rob Satrom, owner of FeedbackWrench .

This can also mean subcontracting for some projects while sourcing your own clients for others. Satrom encourages designers to find agencies you can subcontract for—such as SEO companies, digital marketing organizations or social media teams—while simultaneously working hard to have your own clients coming in.

13. DO familiarize yourself with copywriting

If you’re really hoping to expand the power of your design work, Josh Meah, founder of Mindset Market , encourages designers to familiarize yourself with copywriting best practices. “This will give your work a degree of power, creativity and consistency that few other professionals will be able to compete with,” he says. “It will also teach you how to sell almost anything.”

14. DON’T do any work without a contract

While this one may seem obvious, its importance cannot be overstated. “Don’t do anything without a contract,” Caren urges. “We have had clients take our work and not pay us. If we did not have a contract, we would have been out of luck.”

Signed written contracts exist for both the protection of your business and your client, Martin explains. “The most important elements on that contract are the list of deliverables, key dates in the timeline and payment terms,” she says, adding that if a client increases or decreases the scope of work after a contract has been signed, you’ll want to amend the document and acquire the appropriate signatures before moving forward.

15. DO good

All creatives find themselves doing work for clients with whom they feel little connection. In fact, many view this as a challenge, tasking themselves with creating something great and transforming the project into something they can feel passionate about. But if you have time to spare, it can be worth it to donate your services to a nearby charity or local grassroots organization.

“Donate your time to a cause you are passionate about, and you will see it come back to you,” Caren says. “This is a great way to push your design limits, build up your portfolio and just be a great business owner! It will not go unnoticed.”

16. DON’T quit your day job… yet

“Design is wonderful in that you can do it from anywhere at any time,” Williams says. It can be tempting to go all-in when you first establish your budding graphic design business, but that can turn out to be a risky business move in the long-run.

“If you have a job already, start developing clients as a side hustle and do the work at nights and on weekends,” he suggests. “Sure, your personal life will take a hit. But your bank account will thank you later when you quit your job with savings and a client roster.”

Are you ready to start your graphic design business?

Use the advice of our seasoned design professionals as a metaphorical compass as you venture closer toward your goal of starting your own graphic design business. As you take the necessary steps toward making this dream a reality, you’ll want to be sure you continue polishing the skills you’ll need as a business owner.

You’ll learn quickly that the importance of a customer’s experience cannot be overstated in any industry, especially as a small business owner whose early success will rely heavily on positive referrals from satisfied clients. With that in mind, don’t let your preparations stop here. Learn more about fostering positive client interactions by visiting our article, “ Your One-Stop Shop for Communicating with Design Clients .”

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on Pinterest
• Share on LinkedIn

Request More Information

Talk with an admissions advisor today. Fill out the form to receive information about:

• Program Details and Applying for Classes
• Financial Aid and FAFSA (for those who qualify)
• Customized Support Services
• Detailed Program Plan

There are some errors in the form. Please correct the errors and submit again.

Please enter your first name.

Please enter your last name.

There is an error in email. Make sure your answer has:

• An "@" symbol
• A suffix such as ".com", ".edu", etc.

There is an error in phone number. Make sure your answer has:

• 10 digits with no dashes or spaces
• No country code (e.g. "1" for USA)

There is an error in ZIP code. Make sure your answer has only 5 digits.

Please choose a School of study.

Please choose a program.

Please choose a degree.

The program you have selected is not available in your ZIP code. Please select another program or contact an Admissions Advisor (877.530.9600) for help.

The program you have selected requires a nursing license. Please select another program or contact an Admissions Advisor (877.530.9600) for help.

Rasmussen University is not enrolling students in your state at this time.

By selecting "Submit," I authorize Rasmussen University to contact me by email, phone or text message at the number provided. There is no obligation to enroll. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

About the author

Jess Scherman

Jess is a Content Specialist at Collegis Education. She researches and writes articles on behalf of Rasmussen University to help empower students to achieve their career dreams through higher education.

Posted in General Design

• Graphic Design
• design careers

Related Content

Glynn Cosker | 05.04.2023

Brianna Flavin | 06.13.2022

Carrie Mesrobian | 08.09.2021

Callie Malvik | 12.07.2020

This piece of ad content was created by Rasmussen University to support its educational programs. Rasmussen University may not prepare students for all positions featured within this content. Please visit www.rasmussen.edu/degrees for a list of programs offered. External links provided on rasmussen.edu are for reference only. Rasmussen University does not guarantee, approve, control, or specifically endorse the information or products available on websites linked to, and is not endorsed by website owners, authors and/or organizations referenced. Rasmussen University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Small Business Trends

How to start a graphic design business.

Graphic designers have become essential players in crafting the visual language that businesses use to communicate. If you’re a graphic designer who has aspired to operate your own successful small business, this how-to-start a graphic design business guide will provide a detailed, step-by-step roadmap toward success, akin to a business startup checklist .

The Graphic Design Industry

The graphic design industry has evolved significantly over the years, adapting to technological shifts and diversifying its offerings. With the introduction of graphic design apps , the landscape has become more dynamic.

From traditional print media to the digital world, the industry has expanded its horizons. Following are some of the specialized niches within this ever-changing field:

• Branding : Professionals in this niche work on creating a unified visual identity for businesses. This involves not only logo design but also the selection of color schemes and typography that make a brand recognizable.
• Digital Art : The area focuses on creating digital-first artworks and designs. Designers use specialized software, including various graphic design apps, to create everything from web graphics to digital paintings.
• UI/UX Design : This niche is dedicated to crafting user-friendly digital interfaces. Designers work on both the aesthetic aspects and the user experience to ensure a seamless interaction with digital products.
• Print Design : Despite the digital shift, print design remains relevant. Designers in this niche work on creating compelling visuals for printed materials such as brochures, business cards, and posters.
• Motion Graphics : The specialization involves creating animated or dynamic graphics. These are often used in video production, online advertisements, and other multimedia projects. Why Start Your Own Graphic Design Business?

Why Start Your Own Graphic Design Business?

For anyone wondering how to start a business , particularly in the graphic design domain, it’s essential to understand these benefits.

It provides greater control over creative projects, offers the potential for higher earnings (and you might wonder, how much do graphic designers make ?), and allows for a more flexible work-life balance. Moreover, with a well-implemented business plan , the path becomes clearer.

If you’re thinking of starting your own graphic design business, be sure you consider:

• Creative Freedom : Running your own business means you make all the creative decisions. This level of control can lead to a more fulfilling and personalized work experience.
• Financial Independence : As a business owner, your earning potential is not limited by a salary structure. This can lead to greater financial freedom and stability. It’s also a good point to note how much do graphic designers make annually, which can serve as a benchmark for your financial projections.
• Client Selection : Having the freedom to choose your clients allows you to focus on projects that align with your skills and interests. This can lead to more satisfying and profitable work.
• Flexible Schedule : Being your own boss means you can set your own hours. This flexibility can result in a healthier work-life balance.
• Skill Development : Operating a business requires a range of skills beyond graphic design, such as understanding what is marketing .. These can include everything from marketing to client relations, all of which are valuable in professional development.

Choosing a Niche for Your New Graphic Design Business

In the competitive field of graphic design, choosing a niche can set you apart from the competition.

Specializing allows you to focus on a specific area, honing your skills and meeting specific client needs. Below are some niches to consider:

• Logo Design : This specialization involves creating unique, impactful logos that serve as the cornerstone of a brand’s identity. A well-designed logo can significantly influence public perception of a brand.
• Web Design : In this niche, designers focus on creating websites that are both visually appealing and user-friendly. With a proper website startup guide , even beginners can craft impactful sites. A well-designed website can greatly enhance a company’s online presence.
• Packaging Design : Designers in this area work on the visual and tactile aspects of product packaging. Effective packaging can not only attract attention but also provide essential information to consumers.
• Editorial Design : Editorial design involves the layout and visual design of print publications. A well-designed publication can enhance readability and overall reader engagement.
• Infographics : The infographic niche focuses on distilling complex information into easy-to-understand visual formats. Effective infographics can make data accessible and engaging for a wide audience.

Laying the Foundations: Business Essentials

Before diving into the creative aspects of a graphic design business, we must address some fundamental business considerations.

Like in the case of most small business ventures, these range from choosing the appropriate legal structure to securing necessary licenses and financing. Ensuring that you have small business insurance can protect your company from potential unforeseen risks.

Select a Legal Business Entity

Selecting the right legal structure for your business is a crucial step that will have long-term implications. Knowing the common business structures can provide insight.

The choice affects various aspects of the business, including tax obligations, liability, and management structure. Some common types of business entities include:

• Sole Proprietorship : This is the simplest form of business entity. It offers complete control to the owner but also exposes them to personal liability for business debts.
• Partnership : In this structure, two or more individuals share ownership. While it allows for shared responsibilities, each partner is personally liable for business debts.
• Limited Liability Company : An LLC provides the benefits of limited liability, similar to a corporation, but with fewer formalities. It offers flexibility in management and taxation.
• Corporation : This is a more complex structure that involves shareholders, directors, and officers. It offers liability protection but comes with more regulatory requirements.

Choose the Right Business Name

Selecting a business name is more than just a creative endeavor; it’s a critical part of your brand identity. The name should be catchy, memorable, and reflective of the services you offer.

It’s also essential to check the availability of the name to avoid potential legal issues, such as trademark infringement. Online databases and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office can be valuable resources for this.

Given the digital nature of graphic design, also consider domain name availability to ensure a cohesive online presence.

Obtain a Business License

Operating without the proper business license can lead to significant legal repercussions, even in the field of graphic design. The requirements for obtaining a license can vary based on your location and the nature of the services you offer.

Local government websites often provide detailed information on the types of licenses needed and the application process. Some jurisdictions may require additional permits, such as a home occupation permit if you plan to operate your business from home.

Secure Business Loans and Financial Assistance

Funding is often one of the most challenging aspects of starting a business.

Fortunately, various options are available to help you finance the startup phase of your graphic design venture, including:

• Traditional Bank Loans : These loans are often the first option entrepreneurs consider. They offer lower interest rates but require a strong business plan and financial history.
• Online Lenders : Online lending platforms can provide quicker access to funds but often at higher interest rates. They are generally more flexible with eligibility criteria.
• Government Grants : These grants are essentially free money but are highly competitive. They often require a detailed business plan and may have specific eligibility criteria.
• Venture Capital : This funding source involves selling a stake in your business to an investor. It can provide significant funding but at the cost of partial ownership.
• Crowdfunding : Platforms like Kickstarter allow you to raise small amounts of money from a large number of people. This option can also serve as a marketing tool, creating early awareness of your business.

Starting a Graphic Design Business: Step by Step

Establishing a graphic design business involves meticulous planning and execution.

Aspiring entrepreneurs need only follow our guide through the critical steps needed to launch a successful venture. From crafting a business plan to setting up an effective workspace, each of the following steps is crucial for success.

Craft a Business Plan for Your Graphic Design Venture

A well-crafted business plan serves as the blueprint for your graphic design business. A comprehensive plan can make the difference between success and failure, so before you launch a graphic design company, take note of the following elements of an effective business plan:

• Market Research : Understanding the market landscape helps identify opportunities and threats. This research forms the basis for making informed business decisions.
• Target Audience Identification : Knowing your target audience allows for more focused marketing efforts. It helps tailor your services to meet specific needs.
• Setting Clear Objectives : Objectives provide direction for your business. They should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.
• Financial Projections : A detailed financial forecast helps in planning your budget. It also aids in assessing the viability of your business.
• Marketing Strategy : This outlines how you plan to attract and retain clients. It should include both online and offline methods.
• Operational Plan : This describes the day-to-day running of the business. It includes staffing requirements and logistical considerations.

Assemble a Stellar Portfolio

A compelling portfolio serves as the cornerstone of a graphic designer’s credibility. It showcases your skills, style, and versatility to potential clients.

A well-curated portfolio can be your strongest asset in attracting high-value clients. When compiling yours, remember the following strategies:

• Selecting Your Best Work : Choose pieces that not only showcase your skills but also align with the services you plan to offer. Quality should always take precedence over quantity.
• Organizing Your Portfolio : A well-organized portfolio makes it easier for clients to navigate through your work. Logical categorization and clear labeling are key.
• Showcasing Versatility : Include a variety of work to demonstrate your range of skills. This can include everything from logo design to digital illustrations.
• Quality Over Quantity : It’s better to have fewer pieces of high-quality work than to overload your portfolio. Each piece should reflect your best work.
• Digital and Physical Copies : Having both digital and physical portfolios allows you to cater to different client preferences. Both versions should be equally compelling.

Set Up a Workspace: Physical vs. Virtual

Choosing between a physical studio and a virtual workspace depends on various factors, including the nature of client interactions, team collaborations, and equipment needs.

A physical studio may offer a more professional setting for client meetings but comes with higher overhead costs.

On the other hand, virtual or co-working spaces offer flexibility and are generally more cost-effective.

The decision should align with your business model, the services you offer, and your long-term growth strategy. Both options have their merits and drawbacks, and the choice could significantly impact your operational efficiency and client satisfaction.

Find Graphic Design Clients

Building a robust network is crucial for the growth and sustainability of your graphic design business.

Networking can occur both online and offline, providing multiple avenues to attract clients. A strong network can be your most valuable asset in finding new projects.

If you’re ready to seek out new clients for your graphic design company, the following might be just the tactics you need for success:

• Attending Industry Events : These gatherings offer opportunities to meet potential clients and collaborators. Networking at such events can lead to lucrative contracts.
• Leveraging Social Media Platforms : Platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram can be powerful tools for showcasing your work. They also offer opportunities for direct engagement with potential clients.
• Joining Design Communities : Online forums and communities can provide valuable insights. They even offer potential leads for new projects.
• Utilizing Freelance Platforms : Websites like Upwork and Freelancer can be good starting points for new businesses. They offer platforms to showcase your skills and find new clients.

Building a strong reputation through word-of-mouth referrals is invaluable. Maintaining a professional relationship with all clients and continuously updating your skills are key to staying relevant in this dynamic industry.

A satisfied client can be a long-term asset, providing both repeat business and valuable referrals.

Hire and Collaborate with Other Graphic Designers

The digital age has ushered in an era where visual content is paramount, making the graphic designer job description all the more relevant. As your business grows, you may find the need to expand your team. Collaborating with other designers can bring fresh perspectives, enhance creativity, and enable your business to take on larger projects.

Whether you choose to hire full-time staff or collaborate on a project-by-project basis, a larger team can offer diverse skills that enrich your service offerings.

Understanding when and how to expand is crucial for maintaining quality and meeting increased demand. Strategic hiring can not only alleviate workload but also introduce new skills and technologies into your workflow.

Promote Your Graphic Design Business with Marketing and Branding

Gaining visibility in the competitive graphic design market requires a multi-faceted marketing strategy. Understanding what is marketing and how it aligns with your business goals is pivotal. From maintaining an active social media presence to attending industry events and webinars, every interaction is an opportunity to showcase your brand.

Partnerships with other businesses can also provide a mutually beneficial platform for exposure.

Effective marketing is not just about reaching a large audience but also about reaching the right people. Tailoring your marketing strategies to your target demographic can yield better results and contribute to long-term success.

Gain an Online Presence with a Business Website

A professional website serves as your digital business card, portfolio, and first point of contact for potential clients. Hence, having a reliable website startup guide can be immensely beneficial.

A well-designed website can significantly impact your business, attracting more clients and establishing your brand. It should showcase a diverse range of work, include client testimonials, and offer an easy way for visitors to get in touch.

A website is not just a digital portfolio but also a platform for client interaction, service listings, and even e-commerce. Ensuring that it aligns with your brand image and business objectives is crucial for its effectiveness.

Pricing and Packages: Making Profit as a Graphic Designer

Determining the right pricing strategy is a critical aspect of running a profitable graphic design business. Options range from charging hourly rates to setting project-based fees. Some designers find success in offering packages that bundle various services, providing value to clients while ensuring consistent revenue.

Retainer agreements are another avenue, offering stability in income and fostering long-term client relationships. Each pricing model has its pros and cons, and the choice often depends on the type of clients you serve, the complexity of the projects, and your own comfort level with the pricing structure.

Ensuring a Successful Graphic Design Business

Success in the graphic design business requires more than just artistic talent; it demands a strategic approach to various aspects of business management.

From honing your skills to expanding your client base, each of the following strategies contributes to the long-term success of your venture:

• Keeping Skills Sharp : The graphic design industry is ever-changing, requiring constant skill upgradation. Regular training and practice can keep you ahead of the curve.
• Staying Abreast of Industry Trends : Being aware of the latest trends allows you to offer services that are in demand. Subscribing to industry publications and attending webinars are good ways to stay updated.
• Expanding Client Base : A diverse client base provides stability and growth opportunities. Networking and client referrals are effective ways to achieve this.
• Effective Marketing : A well-planned marketing strategy can significantly increase your client reach. It should include both online and offline methods.
• Financial Management : Keeping track of income, expenses, and taxes is crucial for sustainability. Consider using accounting software tailored for small businesses.

Continuous Learning and Skill Enhancement

The graphic design industry is characterized by rapid changes in tools, techniques, and design philosophies.

Staying updated is not just an option but a necessity for survival and growth in this competitive field. Whether it’s mastering the latest version of design software or understanding emerging design philosophies, continuous learning keeps you relevant.

Online courses, workshops, and industry events offer excellent opportunities for skill upgradation. Investing in your skills not only enhances your service offerings but also gives you a competitive edge.

Strong Client Relationships

Cultivating strong relationships with clients is essential for the long-term success of your graphic design business. Satisfied clients are more likely to provide repeat business and refer others to your services.

• Effective Communication : Clear and timely communication sets the stage for a successful project. It helps in managing client expectations and resolving issues promptly.
• Understanding Client Needs : Taking the time to understand the client’s objectives and preferences can result in a more successful design outcome. It also fosters client trust.
• Ensuring Repeat Business : Providing excellent service and delivering on time can make you the go-to designer for clients. Repeat business often forms the backbone of a successful venture.
• Transparency in Operations : Being transparent about pricing, timelines, and deliverables can significantly enhance client trust. It also minimizes the scope for misunderstandings.
• Client Feedback : Actively seeking and acting upon client feedback can provide valuable insights. It helps in improving your services and understanding what clients value most.

FAQs: How to Start a Graphic Design Business

How do graphic designers keep up with design trends.

Graphic designers stay current with design trends through various means. Subscribing to industry publications, following influential designers on social media, and attending webinars and conferences are common methods.

Online forums and design communities also offer valuable insights into emerging trends. Continuous learning through courses and workshops helps designers adapt to new styles and techniques, ensuring they remain competitive in the ever-evolving design industry.

What are the best platforms for promoting graphic design businesses?

Promoting a graphic design business effectively requires a multi-platform approach. Social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn are particularly useful for showcasing portfolios and connecting with potential clients.

Design-specific platforms such as Behance and Dribbble offer additional exposure within the design community. Networking at industry events and leveraging client referrals can also significantly boost business.

A well-designed, professional website serves as a central hub for showcasing work and attracting clients.

How much do freelance graphic designers make?

Earnings for freelance graphic designers can vary widely based on experience, location, and specialization. According to reports, the average annual income ranges from $34,000 to $69,000 in the United States.

However, highly experienced or specialized designers can earn significantly more. It’s essential to note that freelancers also have to account for expenses like software, hardware, and marketing, which can impact net earnings.

Image: Envato Elements

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

© Copyright 2003 - 2024, Small Business Trends LLC. All rights reserved. "Small Business Trends" is a registered trademark.

Graphic Design Business Plan [Sample Template]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Home » Business Plans » Arts & Craft Sector

Are you about starting a graphic design business ? If YES, here’s a complete sample graphic design business plan template & feasibility report you can use for FREE to raise money .

Look around you and you will see graphics all around you; from the television, to the internet and then to the books. Truth remains that graphics will continue to get all the attention it gets now because of the creativity involved in the profession.

Those who are in the trade know that one of the things that make one stand out is the level of creativity one is able to bring to the table.

The graphics industry is vastly becoming a saturated one as more and more people are beginning to take to the trade.  This is because of the profitability that it assures. If you are a graphic designer, there is no limit to the amount you can make as a professional- especially if you know how to generate doable business ideas.

The truth is that many talented graphic designers (graphic artist) gets stranded because they lack innovative ideas to transform their talents (skills) into a money making venture.

The fact that you are a graphic designer does not in any way restrict you to a certain way of doing business. First and foremost, you must have mastered the skill, and then you should look outside the box. Looking outside the box could mean that you should also acquire complementary skills like video editing and video coverage skills et al.

The bottom line is that if you want to make more money as a graphic designer, then you should be ready to go out of your way to develop innovative business ideas that is in sync with your skills; ideas that won’t take you too far from your core area of business. This is also  where having a detailed business plan comes in.

A Sample Graphic Design Business Plan Template

1. industry overview.

The graphics design business has really opened up over the years and this can be especially attributed to the advent of the internet. A whole lot of things have really caused the business to really boom and in turn attract people to start the trade as well.

The advent of personal computers no doubt gave leverage to the graphic design industry, it is now easier for graphics designer to carry out their jobs from the comfort of their homes with ease and accuracy in terms of designs specifications and color combinations et al. Graphic design can be categorized under the visual and communication arts industry.

Everyone will quite agree that the graphic design industry has come to stay and of course it is one industry that plays key roles- not only in the business world, but also in nearly all the aspects of what goes around in our world today. For instance; organizations with top notch logos would have hired the services of a graphic artist.

As a matter of fact, the services of graphic artists are needed in branding, print advertisement, the publication industry (books, magazines and newspapers et al), handbills, posters, billboards, websites, product packaging and in other areas.

One of the good things about this business remains the fact that you can start by acquiring a skill in the business and then begin to horn your creativity skills in the industry. There are a thousand and one schools both offline and on line that offers trainings. All that is therefore needed to be done is to be really attentive so that one can get all the rudiments of the art right.

Over the years, the graphic design industry has experienced tremendous growth; from the use of crayons, colors, paints, markers and pencil, to the use of desktop publishing and graphic art software. Beyond every reasonable doubt, a graphic designer cannot be effective and efficient in this dispensation without the use of computers and computer software applications; computer enhanced creative process for graphic artists.

The graphic design industry is undeniably a very large industry and pretty much active in all the parts of the world. Statistics has it that in the united states of America alone, there are 138,035 registered graphic design companies, employing about 172,494 and the industry rakes in about $11bn annually.

The industry is indeed a highly competitive industry, which is why no graphic design company can boast of generating more than 5 percent of the total revenue in the industry.

As a matter of fact, IBIS World has stated that the two biggest graphic design companies have a combined market share of only 5.2 percent. Statistics also has it that 93.2 percent of players in the graphic design industry employ maximum of 10 full – time workers per time.

Over and above, the graphic design industry is very open to aspiring entrepreneurs who have the required skills to start his or her own graphic design business and of course make good money from the industry. As a matter of fact, it was projected that over the next five years, new technology will continue to emerge that will make it easier for more players to come into the industry hence increasing the competition in the industry.

2. Executive Summary

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio Is a U.S based but world class graphics design company. We do not have plans to handle things with levity, which is why we have really made it a point of mandate to do all that we are able to We have been able to lock down a standard and well – positioned office facility in a busy business district in Baltimore, the largest city in Maryland.

We are a graphic design company that is set to compete in the highly competitive graphic design industry not only in the United States market, but also in the global market. Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio will be involved in the all aspect of graphic design services- such as Web Design, Print Media Design, Advertising and Corporate Branding, Graphic and Commercial art services, Corporate Identification design services (logos), Cartoons and Animations.

Our business goal is to become one of the leading graphic design companies in the United States and we will make sure that every graphic design jobs that leaves our studio can favorable compete with the best in the industry.

We believe that having the best of employees also have a ways of helping to boost a business. This is one of the reasons why our workers will be selected from a pool of talented and highly creative graphic artists in and around Baltimore and also from any part of the world as the business grows.

We will make sure that we take all the members of our workforce through the required trainings that will position them to meet the expectation of the company and to compete with leading graphic designers in the United States and throughout the globe.

We have put plans in place to build a state of the art graphics studio in Baltimore – Maryland. Our studio will be well equipped and we will ensure that we follow the trend in the industry. At Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio, our client’s best interest come first, and everything we do will be guided by our values and professional ethics.

We will ensure that we hold ourselves accountable to the highest standards by meeting our client’s needs precisely and completely. We will cultivate a working environment that provides a human, sustainable approach to earning a living, and living in our world, for our partners, employees and for our clients.

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio is founded by Louis Clinton and his friend and business partner for many years Levi Bradford. They have a combine experience in corporate branding and advertising, cartoon and animations, graphic and commercial art services and print media design.

3. Our Products and Services

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio was established with the aim of maximizing profits in the graphic design industry. We want to compete favorably with the leading graphics design companies in the United States, which is why we have but in place a competent quality assurance team that will ensure that all our graphic designs and services meet and even surpass our customers’ expectations.

We will work hard to ensure that Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio is not just accepted nationally in the United States of America, but also in other parts of the world. Our products and services are listed below;

• Print Media Design
• Advertising and Corporate Branding
• Graphic and Commercial art services
• Corporate Identification design services
• Creating Illustrations
• Cartoon and Animations (3D et al) Production

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our vision is to establish a standard graphic design studio whose services and brand will not only be accepted in the United States of America, but also in other parts of the world.
• We are poised to solve the graphics problems around town.
• Our mission is to provide professional and highly creative graphic design and related services that will assist businesses, individuals and non-profit organizations in promoting their brands.
• We want to build a graphic design company that can favorably compete with other leading brands in the industry.

Our Business Structure

At Louis and Levi, we have structured our business so well so that all and sundry can benefits from Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio. Our business is a graphic design company that intends to   start small in Baltimore, but hope to grow big in order to compete favorably with leading graphic design studios in the industry both in the United States and on a global stage.

We are aware of the importance of building a solid business structure that can support the picture of the kind of world class business we want to own. This is why we are committed to only hire the best hands within our area of operations.

At Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio, we will ensure that we hire people that are qualified, hardworking, creative, customer centric and are ready to work to help us build a prosperous business that will benefit all the stake holders (the owners, workforce, and customers).

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our senior management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of five years or more as agreed by the board of trustees of the company. In view of the above, we have decided to hire qualified and competent hands to occupy the following positions;

• Chief Executive Officer
• Creative Director

Human Resources and Admin Manager

• Sales and Marketing Executive
• Graphic Artist
• Cartoon and Animation Specialist

Client Service Executive

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results; developing incentives; developing a climate for offering information and opinions; providing educational opportunities.
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization

Creative Director:

• Serves as project manager of the organization; works directly with employees
• Responsible for designing concepts for advertisements and other promotional needs for client (s)
• In charge of copy writing and laying out chronological advertisement plans
• Develops strategic plan by studying technological and financial opportunities; presenting assumptions; recommending objectives.
• Accomplishes subsidiary objectives by establishing plans, budgets, and results measurements; allocating resources; reviewing progress; making mid-course corrections.
• Coordinates efforts by establishing procurement, production, marketing, field, and technical services policies and practices; coordinating actions with corporate staff.
• Builds company image by collaborating with customers, government, community organizations, and employees; enforcing ethical business practices.
• Maintains quality service by establishing and enforcing organization standards.
• Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; benchmarking state-of-the-art practices; participating in professional societies.
• Make certain that production and development department perform efficiently, coordinate employee efforts, and facilitate communications between management and graphic designer
• Ensures that the organization work in line with international best practices.
• Responsible for overseeing the smooth running of HR and administrative tasks for the organization
• Defining job positions for recruitment and managing interviewing process
• Carries out staff induction for new team members
• Responsible for training, evaluation and assessment of employees
• Responsible for arranging travel, meetings and appointments
• Oversee the smooth running of the daily office and factory activities.
• Makes sure that the smooth and daily cleaning is never compromised.

Sales and Marketing Manager

• Manage external research and coordinate all the internal sources of information to retain the organizations’ best customers and attract new ones
• Models demographic information and analyze the volumes of transactional data generated by customer
• Identifies development opportunities; follows up on development leads and contacts; participates in the structuring and financing of projects; assures the completion of development projects.
• Writes winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Develops, executes and evaluates new plans for expanding increase sales
• Creates new markets cum businesses for the organization
• Empowers and motivates the sales team to meet and surpass agreed targets
• Attends really warmly to the clients that come to the office.

Accountant / Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports; analyzes financial feasibility for the most complex proposed projects; conducts market research to forecast trends and business conditions.
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for one or more properties.
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for Pick ‘a’ Brain™ Finishing School
• Serves as internal auditor for Pick ‘a’ Brain™ Finishing School

Graphic Designers (2)

• Liaises with clients to determine their requirement and budget
• Responsible for developing concepts, graphics and layouts for product illustrations, company logos, and websites
• Responsible for managing client proposals from typesetting through to design, print and production
• Responsible for reviewing final layout and suggesting improvement if necessary
• Responsible for working with clients, briefing and advising them with regards to design style, format, print production and timescales et al
• Determine size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, and font style and size
• Responsible for liaising with external printers on a regular basis to ensure deadlines are met and material is printed to the highest quality
• Responsible for preparing drafts or material based on an agreement brief.
• Researches and advice the organization on style, genre and other trendy info as it relates to graphic design.

Cartoon and Animator Specialist (2)

• Responsible for designing models, background, sets, characters, objects and the animation environment
• Works creatively to produce original and aesthetically pleasing designs and solutions
• Uses specialist computer software applications such as Maya, Lightwave, Softimage, Cinema 4D, Flash and After Effects
• Presents designs to customers for evaluation
• Liaises and working effectively with other design and production staff
• Welcomes students and visitors by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with students on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the company’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the school coordinator in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the schools’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to students when they make enquiries

6. SWOT Analysis

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio engaged the services of a core professional in the area of business consulting and structuring to assist our organization in building a well – structured graphic design business that can favorably compete in the highly competitive graphic design industry in the United States and the world at large.

Part of what the team of business consultant did was to work with the management of our organization in conducting a SWOT analysis for Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio. We believe it was really expedient to have only professionals handle this aspect and so we got the best of results.

Here is a summary from the result of the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio;

Our core strength lies in the power of our team; our workforce. We have a team of creative and highly proficient graphic designers, a team with excellent qualifications and experience various niche areas in the graphic design industry.

Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected graphic artists our designs and services will be guided by best practices in the industry. We know that with a solid area of strength, we will be able to attract loads of people, who will patronize us.

As a new graphic design company in Baltimore – Maryland, it might take some time for our organization to break into the market and gain acceptance especially from top profile clients in the already saturated and highly competitive graphic design industry; that is perhaps our major weakness. Another weakness is that we may not have the required cash to promote our business the way we would want to.

• Opportunities:

No doubt, the opportunities in the graphic design industry is massive considering the number of individuals and corporate organizations whose businesses depends on the services of graphic artist. As a graphic design company, we are ready to take advantage of any opportunity that is available in the industry.

Therefore, for us to harness what we have, we have to be all hard working so that at the end of the day after putting our best, we will get what we deserve.

Just like any other business, one of the major threats that we are likely going to face is economic downturn. It is a fact that economic downturn affects purchasing / spending power. Another threat that may likely confront us is the arrival of a new graphic design company in same location where our target market exist and who may want to adopt same Business model like us.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

The trend in the graphic design industry is that the target market keeps expanding, people and organizations are now seeing the need for them to engage the services of graphic designers either in branding or packaging their products and services or in helping them create animations that will help them communicate their brand to a wide range of clients.

For example; politicians no longer rely on graphic artists to design and produce colorful campaign handbills, posters, billboards and other print related campaign materials but also to help them produce animations and cartoons that will help them effectively communicate their message.

Another common trend in the graphic design industry is that, most graphic design firms no longer settle for clients within the location where there physical office is located but also from any part of the world. The truth is that with the advent of the internet, it is now easier for a graphic design company or a graphic designer to work for clients in any part of the world.

A graphic design company can be located in the United States of America and have their biggest client in United Arab Emirates. Many thanks to the power of the internet. Lastly, the graphic design industry will continue to evolve due to the advancement of computer technology and software applications designs et al.

8. Our Target Market

Before starting our graphic design business, we are certain that there is a wide range of both corporate and individual clients who cannot successfully run their businesses without the services of graphic designers. As a matter of fact, without graphic designers branding, publications and animation industry will struggle.

In view of that, we have created strategies that will enable us reach out to various corporate organizations and individual who we know can’t afford to do without our services.

We have conducted our market research and survey and we will ensure that all our graphic design services is well accepted in the marketplace. Below is a list of the people and organizations that we have specifically market our products and services to;

• Banks, Insurance Companies and other related Financial Institutions
• Blue Chips Companies
• Corporate Organizations
• Manufacturers and Distributors
• Real Estate Owners, Developers, and Contractors
• Research and Development Companies
• The Government (Public Sector)
• Schools (High Schools, Colleges and Universities)
• Sport Organizations
• Religious Organizations
• Political Parties
• Television Stations
• Printing Press (Publishing Houses) and Authors
• Branding and Advertising agencies
• Entrepreneurs and Start – Ups

Our Competitive Advantage

No doubt the competition in the graphic design industry is getting stiffer by the day, you have to be highly creative and come up with appealing designs and concepts in order to survive in the industry. The graphic design industry is indeed a very prolific and at the same time a highly competitive industry.

Clients will only hire your services if they know that they can get nothing but the best from you. We are quite aware that to be highly competitive in the graphic design industry means that you are not only expected to be able to deliver consistent and highly creative designs, but you must be able to meet set targets.

No one would want to continue to hire your services if don’t always meet up with the target date of completion of projects.

Our competitive advantage lies in the power of our team; our workforce. We have a team of creative and highly proficient graphic designers, a team with excellent qualifications and experience various niche areas in the graphic design industry.

Aside from the synergy that exists in our carefully selected graphic artists our designs and services will be guided by best practices in the industry.

Lastly, all our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category (startups graphic design businesses in the United States) in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and achieve all our business aims and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

Sources of Income

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the graphic design industry and we are going to go all the way to ensure that we do all it takes to meet and surpass the expectations of all our clients.

This is why one of the things that we have done is to identify the areas that we will source out startup funds from. Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio will generate income by offering the following graphic design related services;

10. Sales Forecast

Having good sales is one of the driving forces of our graphics designing business. This is why we are always taking time to do a proper forecast. We know that constantly doing this will help us sit up in the aspects where we may be found wanting.

One thing is certain; there would always be corporate organization and individual who would need the services of graphic design firms.

We are well positioned to take on the available market in graphic design industry and we are quite optimistic that we will meet our set target of generating enough income / profits from the first six month of operations and grow our graphic design company to enviable heights.

We have been able to critically examine the graphic design market and we have analyzed our chances in the industry and we have been able to come up with the following sales forecast. The sales projection is based on information gathered on the field and some assumptions that are peculiar to similar startups in Baltimore – Maryland.

Below is the sales projection for Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio, it is based on the location of our business and of course the wide range of our services and target market;

• First Year-: $100,000
• Second Year-: $300,000
• Third Year-: $7500, 000

N.B: This projection is done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major economic meltdown and there won’t be any major competitor offering same graphic services as we do within same location. Please note that the above projection might be lower and at the same time it might be higher.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

We are mindful of the fact that there is stiffer competition in the graphic design industry; hence we have been able to hire some of the best marketing experts to handle our sales and marketing.

Our sales and marketing team will be recruited based on their vast experiences in the graphic design industry and they will be trained on a regular basis so as to be well equipped to meet their targets and the overall business goal of Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio.

Our goal is to grow Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio and to become one of the top 10 graphic design studios in the United States of America which is why we have mapped out strategy that will help us take advantage of the available market and grow to become a major force to reckon with not only in the United States of America but also in other parts of the world.

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio are set to make use of the following marketing and sales strategies to attract clients;

• Introduce our graphic design company by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to corporate organizations, religious organizations and key stake holders.
• Promptness in bidding for graphic design contracts from the government and other cooperate organizations
• Advertise our business in relevant business magazines, newspapers, TV stations, and radio station.
• List our business on yellow pages ads (local directories)
• Attend relevant international and local expos, seminars, and business fairs et al
• Create different packages for different category of clients in order to work with their budgets and still deliver excellent design and services
• Leverage on the internet to promote our business
• Engage direct marketing approach
• Encourage word of mouth marketing from loyal and satisfied clients
• Offer Probono services to people who need graphics designing services.
• Hold free graphics training for people who might   want to learn.

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with our in house brand and publicity consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the heart of our target market.

We are set to become the number one choice for both corporate clients and individual clients in the whole of the United States and beyond which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our graphic design company. Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio;

• Place adverts on both print (newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community based events / programs
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook , twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our services
• Install our BillBoards on strategic locations all around Baltimore – Maryland.
• Engage in road show from time to time in targeted neighborhoods
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• Contact corporate organizations by calling them up and informing them of Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio and the services we offer
• List our graphic design company in local directories / yellow pages
• Advertise our graphic design company in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles are well branded with our company logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

At Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio we will keep the prices of our services below the average market rate for all of our customers by keeping our overhead low and by collecting payment in advance from corporate organizations who would hire our services. In addition, we will also offer special discounted rates to all our customers at regular intervals.

It is vital we do this so that we do not scare people away with our pricing. We are aware that there are some one-off jobs or government contracts which are always lucrative; we will ensure that we abide by the pricing model that is expected from contractors or organizations that bid for such contracts.

• Payment Options

At Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio, our payment policy will be all inclusive because we are quite aware that different people prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by via bank transfer
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft
• Payment via mobile money
• Payment with cash

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no itches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

In setting up any business, the amount or cost will depend on the approach and scale you want to undertake. If you intend to go big by renting a place, then you would need a good amount of capital as you would need to ensure that your employees are well taken care of, and that your facility is conducive enough for workers to be creative and productive.

This means that the start-up can either be low or high depending on your goals, vision and aspirations for your business. The materials and equipment that will be used are nearly the same cost everywhere, and any difference in prices would be minimal and can be overlooked.

As for the detailed cost analysis for starting a graphic design company; it might differ in other countries due to the value of their money. However, this is what it would cost us to setup Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio in the United of America;

• Business incorporation fees in the United States of America will cost – $750.
• The budget for Liability insurance, permits and license will cost – $3,500
• Acquiring an office space or warehouse that will accommodate the number of employees for at least 6 months (Re – Construction of the facility inclusive to fit into the design of our graphic studio) will cost – $150,000.
• Equipping the office (computers, printers, projectors, markers, servers / internet facility, furniture, telephones, filing cabinets, and electronics) will cost – $10,000
• Amount required to purchase the needed software applications – $ 3,500
• Launching an official Website will cost – $500
• Amount need to pay bills and staff members for at least 2 to 3 months – $70,000
• Additional Expenditure such as Business cards, Signage, Adverts and Promotions will cost – $5,000

Going by the report from the market research and feasibility studies conducted, we will need about two hundred and fifty thousand (250,000) U.S. dollars to successfully set – up a medium scale but standard graphic design company firm in the United States of America.

Generating Funding / Startup Capital for Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio

Louis & Levi Graphic Design Studio is a business that will be owned by Louis Clinton and his friend and business partner for many years Levi Bradford. They are the sole financial of the business which is why they decided to restrict the sourcing of the start – up capital for the business to just three major sources. These are the areas we intend generating our start – up capital;

• Generate part of the start – up capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the start – up capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $100,000 (Personal savings $85,000 and soft loan from family members $15,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $150,000 from our bank. All the papers and document has been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

It is easier for businesses to survive when they have steady flow of business deals / customers patronizing their products and services. We are aware of this which is why we have decided to develop a various mobile apps for different clients and for different purposes.

We will also work with corporate clients to help them develop customized mobile apps for their business. We know that if we continue to come up with highly creative and unique graphic designs and excellent job delivery for both businesses and individual, there will be steady flow of income for the organization.

Our key sustainability and expansion strategy is to ensure that we only hire creative, competent and selfless graphic artists and cartoon and animation specialist, create a conducive working environment and employee benefits for our staff members.

In the nearest future, we will give our most dedicated and prolific employees the opportunity to be part owner of the business. We know that if we implement our business strategies, we will achieve our business goals and objectives in record time.

Check List / Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check:>Completed
• Business Incorporation: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts various banks in the United States: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Securing a standard office facility for our studio: Completed
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of All form of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating part of the start – up capital from the founders: Completed
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents: In Progress
• Design of Logo for the business: Completed
• Secure trademark for our products: In Progress
• Graphic Designs and Printing of Packaging Marketing / Promotional Materials: Completed
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the Needed furniture, office equipment, software applications, electronic appliances and facility facelift: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the business: In Progress
• Creating Awareness for the business: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement: In Progress
• Establishing business relationship with vendors and key players in various industries: In Progress

Related Posts:

• Photography Studio Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Coffin Manufacturing Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Freelance Photography Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Laser Engraving Business Plan [Sample Template]
• Coin Dealer Business Plan [Sample Template]

• Create an email message
• Suggested recipients
• Use @mentions
• Create a signature
• Add attachments
• Check spelling
• Add a reaction
• Out of office replies
• Delay or schedule
• Recall a message
• Automatic forwarding
• Read receipt
• Save a file or draft
• Change display name
• Create a folder
• Use inbox rules
• Conditional formatting
• Use Favorites
• Custom views
• Message font size
• Message list view
• Focused Inbox
• View as conversations
• Filter and sort messages
• Number of messages
• Chat with recipients
• Share an email
• Status in Outlook
• Phishing and suspicious behavior
• Blocked senders
• Protected messages
• Open a protected message
• More to explore

Create and add an email signature in Outlook

In Outlook, you can create one or more personalized signatures for your email messages. Your signature can include text, links, pictures, and images (such as your handwritten signature or a logo).

Note:  If the steps under this New Outlook tab don't work, you may not be using new Outlook for Windows yet. Select Classic Outlook  and follow those steps instead.

Create and add an email signature

On the View tab, select   View Settings . 

Select Accounts > Signatures .

Select    New signature , then give it a distinct name.

In the editing box below the new name, type your signature, then format it with the font, color, and styles to get the appearance you want.

Select Save when you're done.

With your new signature selected from the list above the editing box, go to  Select default signatures and choose whether to apply the signature to new messages and to replies and forwards.

Select Save again.

Note:  If you have a Microsoft account, and you use Outlook and Outlook on the web or Outlook on the web for business, you need to create a signature in both products.

Create your signature and choose when Outlook adds a signature to your messages

If you want to watch how it's done, you can go directly to  the video below .

Open a new email message.

Under Select signature to edit , choose New , and in the New Signature dialog box, type a name for the signature.

Under Edit signature , compose your signature. You can change fonts, font colors, and sizes, as well as text alignment. If you want to create a more robust signature with bullets, tables, or borders, use Word to create and format your signature text, then copy and paste it into the Edit signature box. You can also use a pre-designed template  to create your signature. Download the templates in Word, customize with your personal information, and then copy and paste into the Edit signature box. 

You can add links and images to your email signature, change fonts and colors, and justify the text using the mini formatting bar under Edit signature .

You can also add social media icons and links in your signature or customize one of our pre-designed temlates. For more information, see Create a signature from a template .

To add images to your signature, see Add a logo or image to your signature .

Under Choose default signature , set the following options. 

In the E-mail account drop-down box, choose an email account to associate with the signature. You can have different signatures for each email account.

You can have a signature automatically added to all new messages. Go to in the New messages drop-down box and select one of your signatures. If you don't want to automatically add a signature to new messages, choose (none). This option does not add a signature to any messages you reply to or forward. 

You can select to have your signature automatically appear in reply and forward messages. In the  Replies/forwards drop-down, select one of your signatures. Otherwise, accept the default option of (none). 

Choose OK to save your new signature and return to your message. Outlook doesn't add your new signature to the message you opened in Step 1, even if you chose to apply the signature to all new messages. You'll have to add the signature manually to this one message. All future messages will have the signature added automatically. To add the signature manually, select Signature from the Message menu and then pick the signature you just created.

Add a logo or image to your signature

If you have a company logo or an image to add to your signature, use the following steps.

Open a new message and then select Signature > Signatures .

In the Select signature to edit box, choose the signature you want to add a logo or image to.

To resize your image, right-click the image, then choose Picture . Select the Size tab and use the options to resize your image. To keep the image proportions, make sure to keep the Lock aspect ratio checkbox checked.

When you're done, select OK , then select OK again to save the changes to your signature.

Insert a signature manually

If you don't choose to insert a signature for all new messages or replies and forwards, you can still insert a signature manually.

In your email message, on the Message tab, select Signature .

Choose your signature from the fly-out menu that appears. If you have more than one signature, you can select any of the signatures you've created.

See how it's done

Top of page

Note:  Outlook on the web is the web version of Outlook for business users with a work or school account.

Automatically add a signature to a message

You can create an email signature that you can add automatically to all outgoing messages or add manually to specific ones.

Select Settings   at the top of the page.

Select Mail >  Compose and reply .

Under Email signature , type your signature and use the available formatting options to change its appearance.

Select the default signature for new messages and replies.

Manually add your signature to a new message

If you've created a signature but didn't choose to automatically add it to all outgoing messages, you can add it later when you write an email message.

In a new message or reply, type your message.

If you created multiple signatures, choose the signature you want to use for your new message or reply.

When your email message is ready, choose Send .

Note:  Outlook.com is the web version of Outlook for users signing in with a personal Microsoft account such as an Outlook.com or Hotmail.com account.

Related articles

Create and add an email signature in Outlook for Mac

Create an email signature from a template

Need more help?

Want more options.

Explore subscription benefits, browse training courses, learn how to secure your device, and more.

Microsoft 365 subscription benefits

Microsoft 365 training

Microsoft security

Accessibility center

Communities help you ask and answer questions, give feedback, and hear from experts with rich knowledge.

Ask the Microsoft Community

Microsoft Tech Community

Windows Insiders

Microsoft 365 Insiders

Find solutions to common problems or get help from a support agent.

Online support

Was this information helpful?

Thank you for your feedback.