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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OPENING A BUSINESS FROM SCRATCH

Small Shop Ideas for Those Looking to Start a Business from Scratch

For entrepreneurs looking to start a business from scratch with little capital, small shop ideas offer practical and creative options that can be implemented at affordable costs. These businesses, founded with innovative ideas, can operate both in the local market and through digital channels, allowing you to expand your potential customer base.

Correctly identifying your target audience and creating a compelling brand story also play a crucial role in business success. Creating a unique brand identity that connects you emotionally with your customers can help you gain a competitive advantage. Here are some suggestions that appeal to various interests and target audiences:

• Nut and Natural Product Shop: The demand for additive-free, local, and natural products creates a niche customer base. A rich selection of local flavors creates an attractive shopping experience, especially for those who prioritize healthy eating. It's an ideal business model for entrepreneurs who prioritize food presentation and product quality. Furthermore, featuring certified organic products can enhance your business's credibility.
• Handmade Soap and Cosmetics Shop: Selling herbal-based soaps, candles, and skincare products can appeal to consumers who favor natural products and are looking for gift alternatives. These handcrafted products may be suitable for entrepreneurs who want to master the production process and create their own brand. By organizing workshops, you can teach your customers how to make their own cosmetics and create a source of additional income for your business.
• Second-Hand Clothing Shop: This shop is suitable for entrepreneurs interested in fashion and who have a unique collection. A shop's aesthetically pleasing layout can enhance the shopping experience. Furthermore, careful product selection and a unique style concept can contribute to building a niche customer base. By embracing sustainable fashion, you can also attract environmentally conscious consumers to your business.
• Flower Design Shop: This is an ideal option for entrepreneurs with an aesthetic eye who want to reflect their creativity in their business. Offering creative bouquet designs, personalized arrangements, and workshops can enhance the shop's appeal. Designs for corporate events and special occasions also offer the opportunity to reach a broad customer base. Seasonal campaigns and a subscription system can help you generate a regular income stream.
• Boutique Coffee and Dessert Shop: Entrepreneurs with a passion for coffee and an emphasis on flavor and presentation can open this type of shop. Creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere can ensure a comfortable customer experience. A menu can also be created using high-quality coffee beans and fresh desserts, creating attractive presentations. By collaborating with local producers, you can contribute to society and highlight the uniqueness of your business.

Where to Apply to Open a Business?

Entrepreneurs must apply to certain institutions and organizations to open a business from scratch and officially launch their operations. This process includes not only going to the tax office but also steps such as licensing, chamber of commerce registration, and social security procedures. All these official procedures must be completed completely for the business to gain legal status and operate smoothly.

The institutions and organizations that should be contacted to open a business from scratch can be listed as follows:

• Tax Office: For a business to officially commence commercial activities, it must first be registered for tax purposes. After applying to the tax office, the business's tax certificate is prepared and made available electronically. When applying to the tax office, the necessary documents must be prepared according to the business type, and the tax liability type must be selected correctly.
• Municipal Licensing Unit: A business license must be obtained from the municipality to which the business will operate. Documents such as a copy of the lease or title deed, and a signature declaration are required during the license application. Additional documents such as a health report or fire department report may also be required depending on the business's field of activity.
• Chamber of Commerce or Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen: Depending on the business's size and field of activity, registration with the trade registry is required. Registration with the chamber of commerce is mandatory for limited or joint-stock companies, and with the chamber of tradesmen and craftsmen for small-scale businesses. These registrations play a crucial role in establishing the business's official identity and representing it within the sector.
• SGK and İŞKUR: Businesses that will employ personnel must register with the Social Security Institution (SGK) for employee insurance and with İŞKUR for labor force reporting. These records provide legal assurance for both employers and employees and enable the workplace to fulfill its social responsibility obligations.
• Trade Registry Gazette: To formalize the company's incorporation, registration is completed at the Trade Registry Office, and the registration is announced in the Trade Registry Gazette. This step is particularly necessary for businesses with company status and ensures official recognition of the business.

Documents Required to Open a Business

The documents required for opening a business may vary from municipality to municipality. Depending on the business's field of activity, different documents may be required. These may include a professional qualification certificate, a master's certificate, and special permits such as a food production/sales license. Researching these documents beforehand and starting the application process well will ensure the process progresses quickly. The minimum documents required for an entrepreneur wishing to open a business are as follows:

• A photocopy of the relevant chamber of commerce or tradesmen registration (varies depending on the type of business),
• A business license (obtained from the municipality),
• A photocopy of the lease agreement or title deed (showing ownership or right of use),
• A photocopy of the trade registry gazette (required if a company has been established),
• A notarized signature circular (provides authorization to act on behalf of the business),
• A photocopy of the tax certificate (provides taxpayer status),
• A copy of the ID card (verifies the business owner's identity),
• A business declaration form (contains the business's activity information).

Documents Required from the Municipality to Open a Business

Entrepreneurs are required to obtain a business license and an operating permit to start a business from scratch and to legally operate their operations. Applications can be submitted to the Licensing and Inspection Department of the district municipality to which the business is affiliated. After preparing the necessary documents, an application file must be created and submitted to the relevant department. The documents required for opening a business vary depending on the field of activity.

Types of establishments and the documents required for these establishments are divided into three main categories: public establishments, non-sanitary establishments, and sanitary establishments. Each category has different inspection processes and document requirements. Entrepreneurs should determine which category they fall into before opening a business and prepare accordingly to ensure the licensing process proceeds more quickly and smoothly.

Required Documents for Public Establishments

Public establishments are businesses that are open to individuals or groups and operate for entertainment, accommodation, or recreational purposes. Venues such as hotels, motels, coffeehouses, wedding halls, and internet lounges fall into this category. The licensing process for these types of establishments requires more comprehensive inspections and permits than other types of businesses because they are crucial for public health and safety.

The documents and permits required for public establishments are listed in detail below:

• If a business requires road traffic safety, a permit must be obtained from the relevant authority.
• If it is subject to the property ownership law, a permit must be obtained from the management.
• A document or undertaking stating that measures have been taken to facilitate the entry and exit of disabled citizens.
• If it is a company, a company agreement, signature circular, and a current activity certificate.
• If a business requiring a special structure, a permit must be obtained from the relevant authority.
• If it is a public recreational and entertainment venue, a detailed sketch showing the distance from other similar businesses.
• For places registered as residences in the land registry, a consent letter from the relevant persons.
• If a business requires a fire department report, a current fire department report.
• Exterior photographs showing the entire building where the business is located.
• Property tax return and environmental cleaning tax payment receipt.
• Electricity Two sets of approved projects showing the layout of the machinery,
• A current registration certificate from the Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen,
• A notarized power of attorney if the applicant is not the business owner,
• A current photocopy of the title deed if the business ownership belongs to the applicant,
• A health report (hygiene certificate) for the business owner and employees,
• A fire extinguisher invoice (minimum 6 kg capacity),
• A photocopy of the current tax certificate,
• A criminal record certificate obtained through e-Government for the business owner,
• A mastery certificate or professional qualification certificate appropriate to the business's field of activity,
• A positive opinion of local law enforcement regarding general security and public order,
• A SGK service record or employment declaration for employees,
• If the workplace is rented, a notarized lease contract.

Documents Required for Non-Sanitary Enterprises

Non-Sanitary enterprises are businesses that carry out production or storage activities that pose health risks and may have adverse effects on the environment, human health, or general safety. This category includes many businesses, such as factories, workshops, printing houses, chemical plants, plastics factories, food production facilities, and fuel depots.

The documents required for non-sanitary enterprises are as follows:

• For facilities covered by the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulation, a positive EIA certificate or a "no EIA required" certificate are required.
• If the business is a business that may affect road traffic safety, the necessary permit must be obtained from the relevant authority.
• A document or undertaking stating that measures have been taken to facilitate the entry and exit of disabled citizens.
• If the business is a company, a current company agreement, signature circular, and certificate of activity must be provided.
• If the business requires a special building type, the necessary permit must be obtained from the relevant authority.
• For places registered as residences in the land registry, a letter of consent must be obtained from the relevant persons.
• If the business is subject to a hazardous waste license, the relevant license must be provided.
• If the business requires a fire department report, a current fire department report must be provided.
• Exterior photographs showing the entire building where the business is located.
• Property tax return and environmental Cleaning tax payment receipt,
• Two sets of approved projects showing the electrical and machinery layout,
• Current registration certificate from the Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen,
• The necessary emission permit if a business is subject to an emission permit,
• A notarized power of attorney if the applicant is not the business owner,
• A photocopy of the current title deed if the business property belongs to the applicant,
• A health report (hygiene certificate) for the business owner and employees,
• A fire extinguisher invoice (minimum 6 kg capacity),
• A current boiler inspection report if the business has a boiler,
• A photocopy of the current tax certificate,
• A discharge permit for businesses that discharge wastewater,
• A master's certificate or professional qualification appropriate to the business's field of activity document,
• For those working at the business, a Social Security Institution (SGK) service record or employment declaration,
• If the business is rented, a notarized lease agreement.

Required Documents for Sanitary Institutions

Sanitary institutions are businesses that pose a low risk to the environment and human health and generally engage in service, trade, or simple manufacturing activities. Small-scale businesses such as barbershops, hairdressers, grocery stores, markets, tailors, greengrocers, and boutiques fall into this category. These types of businesses are widely distributed within the community and play an important role in meeting daily needs.

The required documents for sanitary institutions can be listed as follows:

• For businesses located in locations that could affect road traffic safety, the necessary permit must be obtained from the relevant authority.
• A document or undertaking stating that measures have been taken to facilitate entry and exit for disabled citizens.
• If the business is a company, the current company agreement, signature circular, and certificate of activity.
• If the business is in a building subject to condominium ownership law, the required permit must be obtained from the management.
• If the business requires a special construction type, the necessary permit must be obtained from the relevant authority.
• For businesses opening in areas registered as residential in the land registry, a letter of consent must be obtained from the relevant persons.
• If the business requires a fire department report, a current fire department report must be obtained.
• Exterior photographs showing the entire building where the business is located.
• Property tax return and environmental cleaning tax payment receipt.
• Two sets of certified copies showing the electrical and machinery layout. Project,
• Current registration certificate from the Chamber of Tradesmen and Craftsmen,
• If the applicant is not the business owner, a notarized power of attorney,
• If the business owner owns the business, a photocopy of the current title deed,
• For the business owner and employees, a health report (hygiene certificate),
• Fire extinguisher invoice (minimum 6 kg capacity),
• A photocopy of the current tax certificate,
• A master's certificate or professional qualification certificate appropriate to the business's field of activity,
• For employees of the business, a SGK service record or employment declaration,
• If the business is rented, a notarized lease contract.

How to Get a Tax Certificate to Open a Business?

Tax certificate is an official document showing the earnings declared by real and legal persons engaged in commercial activities according to the income or corporate tax return they are obliged to pay and the tax corresponding to these earnings.

This document transparently documents the annual profits declared by businesses and the taxes paid, demonstrating that the business is legally registered, and thus building trust with customers and business partners. It is a legal requirement for all taxpayers operating in Türkiye to display their tax registration certificates prominently in their workplaces.

A tax registration certificate can be easily obtained electronically through the Revenue Administration's (GİB) online tax office system. To obtain a tax registration certificate, follow the steps below:

• Determining the Company Type: First, decide whether to operate as a sole proprietorship, limited liability company, or joint stock company. Each company type has its own tax obligations and advantages.
• Preparing the Required Documents: Documents such as a photocopy of your ID, a copy of your lease or title deed, a signature declaration, and any partnership agreement must be prepared in full. Missing documents may delay the application process.
• Application to the Tax Office: Applications are made in person at the tax office appropriate to your chosen company type and the address of your business, or electronically through the interactive tax office system. An e-government password or electronic signature is required for electronic applications.
• Obtaining the Tax Certificate: After completing the application, you can obtain the tax certificate online through the tax office. This certificate must be renewed annually by the end of May and must be prominently displayed at the business premises.

It's beneficial to seek professional support from a financial advisor or accountant to obtain the documents needed for obtaining a tax certificate and to ensure the process is complete. This will allow for faster and smoother application process, minimize potential errors, and provide accurate information about tax liabilities.

Supports for Starting a Business and Banks Providing Loans

Entrepreneurs can benefit from the business start-up support provided by the KOSGEB Entrepreneur Support Program during the process of starting a new business. This program aims to reduce startup costs by providing financial and technical support to new entrepreneurs. In addition, various loan programs offered by banks can be utilized. Banks offer a wide range of loans, tailored to the needs of entrepreneurs, under different headings and in various amounts.

Some of the supports and loans available to entrepreneurs who want to start a business from scratch can be detailed as follows:

1. KOSGEB Entrepreneur Support

KOSGEB Entrepreneur Support offers comprehensive business start-up and business development support. Entrepreneurs can benefit from 100% non-refundable business start-up support when opening their businesses. This support is divided into two categories: sole proprietorships and capital companies, and is provided in varying amounts depending on the type of business. Additionally, significant support is available for personnel expenses within the scope of the business start-up support. To qualify for this support provided by KOSGEB, certain criteria must be met and the application process completed correctly. With this financial support, entrepreneurs can significantly reduce their start-up costs and build their businesses on a more solid foundation when bringing their business ideas to life.

2. Entrepreneur Loan

The Entrepreneur Loan is a financial support specifically designed for entrepreneurs who want to establish their own business based on a unique business idea. This loan type is offered as an installment business loan that can be customized to the entrepreneur's needs, within a certain upper limit. Entrepreneurs who have just established or are planning to establish a business and who meet the basic criteria specifically determined by banks (credit score, business plan, industry experience, etc.) can benefit from this advantageous loan type. Offering generally more favorable interest rates and flexible repayment terms compared to standard business loans, it helps new businesses overcome cash flow challenges in their early stages.

3. Instant Loan for SMEs

Instant Loan for SMEs is a flexible financing solution designed to help businesses quickly meet their urgent cash needs. This type of loan aims to provide liquidity to businesses with minimal bureaucracy and a rapid approval process. Loan terms generally range from a minimum of 6 months to a maximum of 48 months, tailored to the company's financial plans and cash flow. There are lower and upper limits for the loan amount, depending on the business's turnover, operating period, and credit history. SMEs can use this loan for working capital needs, inventory financing, unexpected expenses, or short-term investments.

4. Personal Business Loan

A Personal Business Loan is a special type of loan offered to individuals with a stable and regular income who are not commercially eligible customers. This loan is designed for individual entrepreneurs who want to open a business but are not corporations. The upper loan limit is generally limited to 75% of the appraised value of the property to be used as a mortgage. However, this percentage may vary from bank to bank. During the loan application, the applicant's income, credit history, and repayment capacity are thoroughly evaluated. Banks also aim to ease the financial burden of entrepreneurs by offering suitable maturity options and payment plans.

5. Business Loan

Special business loans are available to meet the financing needs for commercial real estate purchases such as factories, shops, private teaching institutions, and offices. These loans provide businesses with the financial support they need to purchase real estate for commercial use. Typically, a loan amount of up to 75% of the appraised value of the collateralized property is available. However, this percentage can vary from bank to bank and based on the client's credit history. Businesses can create payment plans that fit their cash flow with terms of up to 24 months, making their financial burdens more manageable. Some banks also offer special campaigns and advantageous interest rates for businesses.

To summarize;

•   To open a business from scratch, it is necessary to determine the field of activity, conduct market research and complete the necessary official procedures.
•   In the process of opening a business, applications must be made to institutions such as the tax office, municipality, chamber of commerce and SSI.
•   There are different document requirements for workplaces classified as public, non-sanitary or sanitary establishments, depending on the type of business.

  Take the First Step to Your Dream Workplace with Ifasturk!

Opening a business from scratch is an exciting phase of your entrepreneurial journey. The information we've shared in this guide provides a comprehensive roadmap, from clarifying your business idea to obtaining the necessary documentation, from choosing the right location to completing legal procedures. By navigating each step with intention, you'll lay a solid foundation for a successful business.

At Ifasturk, we're with you from the very beginning of your business's founding. In addition to starting your business from scratch, we offer professional support at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey with our Company Establishment, R&D, and Technocity Accounting services. With our technology-focused solutions and expert team, we contribute to your business's growth, freeing you from the hassle of bureaucratic procedures and allowing you to focus on your core business.

Take the step today to build the successful business of the future and shape your business life with the reliable guidance of İfastürk!

For detailed information and consultancy contact us!

Mesut SENEL | Ifasturk CEO

Certified Public Accountant