Do you have a brilliant idea and are you ready to start your own business in Switzerland? Here's a detailed guide to the key steps involved in bringing your project to fruition, from conception to operational implementation.
Choice of legal form
The first crucial decision is the choice of your legal structure. In Switzerland, the most common options are :
- Sole proprietorship: ideal for the self-employed
- The Sàrl (limited liability company): flexible and adapted to small and medium-sized businesses
- SA (Société anonyme): for more ambitious projects requiring large amounts of capital
Each form has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of liability, taxation and management. It is advisable to consult an expert to make the choice best suited to your situation.
Administrative procedures
Once the legal form has been chosen, it's time for the formalities:
- Choose a unique name for your company and check its availability with the Federal Commercial Registry Office.
- Prepare your articles of association (for a Sàrl or SA) or your business plan (for a sole proprietorship).
- Open a bank account and deposit the required share capital (CHF 100,000 for a corporation, CHF 20,000 for a limited liability company).
- Appointment with a notary to authenticate the foundation documents (Sàrl and SA).
- Register your company in the Commercial Register. This step can be carried out by your notary or yourself, depending on your legal form.
Setting up the infrastructure
With your company officially registered, it's time to set up the tools you need to run your business:
Accounting and management
Opt for accounting software like Bexio, tailored to Swiss SMEs. It will help you manage your invoices, cash flow and tax returns.
Professional communication
Set up professional email messaging with Microsoft 365. This also includes collaboration tools like Teams and OneDrive for file storage.
Computer equipment
Choose and configure laptops adapted to your business. Make sure they are equipped with the necessary software and are secure.
Online presence
Create a professional website that reflects your company's identity. And don't forget to secure your domain names.
Image de marque
Develop a consistent visual identity:
- Design a memorable logo that represents your company.
- Create business cards and letterheads with your new visual identity.
- Make sure that all your communication materials (website, social networks, documents) respect your graphic charter.
Prospecting and business development
To find your first customers:
- Use the online trade register to extract lists of potential prospects in your industry.
- Develop a digital marketing strategy (SEO, online advertising, social networks).
- Attend networking events in your area.
Personalized support
At Potential-IT Sàrl, we understand that every stage in the creation of a company can be complex. That's why we offer tailor-made support:
- Advice on the choice and configuration of IT tools suited to your business
- Setting up management solutions like Bexio for your accounting
- Configuring Microsoft 365 for your professional email and collaboration tools
- Selecting and configuring laptops and other IT equipment
- Assistance in creating your online presence and digital strategy
Our aim is to enable you to concentrate on your core business, freeing you from technical and administrative constraints. With Potential-IT Sàrl at your side, you benefit from a trusted partner to transform your entrepreneurial vision into operational reality.
Don't hesitate to contact us for personalized support in your entrepreneurial adventure in Switzerland.
