Starting an independent new business is rife with both opportunity and risk. From the basics of writing a business plan to the challenges of financing your new venture, the HBR Entrepreneur's Handbook is your essential resource for getting your startup off the ground. Topics include: Navigating the world of venture capital funding; turning innovations into successful realities in the marketplace; building a business model that makes sense for your business; developing the sales and marketing programs needed for your venture; what entrepreneurial leaders must do to build culture and set direction.

Part one: Preparing for the journey. Is starting a business right for you? -- Part two: Defining your enterprise. Shaping an opportunity ; Building your business model and strategy ; Organizing your company ; Writing your business plan -- Part three: Financing your business. Startup-stage financing ; Growth-stage financing ; Angel investors and venture capital ; Going public -- Part four: Scaling up. Sustaining entrepreneurial growth ; Leadership for a growing business ; Keeping the entrepreneurial spirit alive -- Part five: Looking to the future. Harvest time.