So you have a great idea for a business, what is the first step?  The first step is to figure out if you have a market for the product or service.  Sales drive any business.  It also drives investors.

You have a great idea, now prove it.  This usually means giving the product or service away for free or at least at a deep discount, and collect testimonials.  The experience of providing the product or service and collecting the testimonials is critical to setting up your business and creating a marketing plan. 

Do not buy a computer, software, inventory, or any kind of expensive equipment.  You do not yet have a business, nor could you possibly know what to buy.

The first step is to borrow or rent equipment to provide your product or service to at least 20 potential clients.  Remember, you are not doing this to make money; you are doing this for feedback and testimonials.