{"product_id":"site-selection-startup-costs","title":"Commercial Site Selection Service Startup Costs: $327K CAPEX Plus Runway","description":"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased on the researched model, the site selection service startup cost includes \u003cstrong\u003e$327,000 in CAPEX\u003c\/strong\u003e before adding payroll runway, marketing, travel, software subscriptions, insurance, and working capital These are planning assumptions, not vendor quotes, and the largest launch pressure comes from the first-year team, with \u003cstrong\u003e$715,000 in annual payroll\u003c\/strong\u003e across six FTE roles The model also carries \u003cstrong\u003e$120,000 in Year 1 marketing\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003e$288,000 in annual fixed operating expenses\u003c\/strong\u003e, and a \u003cstrong\u003eYear 1 EBITDA loss of $607,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Since breakeven occurs in \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 21\u003c\/strong\u003e, the funding plan needs more than equipment money it needs enough cash to survive the early ramp-up period\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eEstimate Startup Costs with Calculator\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"fml-capex-calculator\" aria-label=\"Commercial Site Selection Service Startup CAPEX Calculator\" data-locale=\"en-US\" data-currency=\"USD\" data-default-scenario=\"base\" data-export-filename=\"Startup CAPEX calculator.xlsx\" data-source-site-name=\"Financial Models Lab\" data-source-site-url=\"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\" data-source-page-title=\"Commercial Site Selection Service Startup CAPEX Calculator\" data-note-title=\"What's excluded\" data-note-text=\"Totals capitalized startup assets only. It excludes payroll runway, inventory, marketing, travel, rent deposits treated as prepaid expenses, working capital, debt service, subscriptions, and other operating costs. Hardware and fit-out are depreciated; capitalized software development is amortized over useful life.\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-card\"\u003e\n\u003cheader class=\"fml-capex-header\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-heading\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-capex-eyebrow\"\u003eStartup CAPEX Calculator\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-capex-intro\"\u003eEstimates capitalized startup assets only for a commercial site selection service, including core software, hardware, and build-out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-scenarios\" aria-label=\"Scenario presets\"\u003e\n\u003cbutton class=\"fml-capex-scenario\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"lean\"\u003eLean\u003c\/button\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"fml-capex-scenario is-active\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"base\"\u003eBase\u003c\/button\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"fml-capex-scenario\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"full\"\u003eFull\u003c\/button\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/header\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-layout\"\u003e\n\u003cform class=\"fml-capex-inputs\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCore Platform Development\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eInternal build for site selection workflows, data logic, and delivery tools.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"core_platform_development\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Core Platform Development\" data-capex-note=\"Internal build for site selection workflows, data logic, and delivery tools.\" data-lean=\"135000\" data-base=\"150000\" data-full=\"175000\" name=\"core_platform_development\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"150,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOffice Fit-out\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eLeasehold build-out, rooms, power, and basic tenant improvements.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"office_fitout\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Office Fit-out\" data-capex-note=\"Leasehold build-out, rooms, power, and basic tenant improvements.\" data-lean=\"52000\" data-base=\"60000\" data-full=\"69000\" name=\"office_fitout\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"60,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eServer Hardware\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eHigh-performance compute and storage used to process location data.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"server_hardware\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Server Hardware\" data-capex-note=\"High-performance compute and storage used to process location data.\" data-lean=\"40000\" data-base=\"45000\" data-full=\"50000\" name=\"server_hardware\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"45,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGIS-ready Workstations\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eAnalyst computers for mapping, modeling, and client deliverables.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"gis_workstations\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"GIS-ready Workstations\" data-capex-note=\"Analyst computers for mapping, modeling, and client deliverables.\" data-lean=\"22000\" data-base=\"25000\" data-full=\"28500\" name=\"gis_workstations\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"25,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLaunch Support Infrastructure\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eSecurity systems, conference room AV, and backup storage systems.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-money\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e$\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"launch_support_infrastructure\" data-capex-kind=\"money\" data-capex-label=\"Launch Support Infrastructure\" data-capex-note=\"Security systems, conference room AV, and backup storage systems.\" data-lean=\"42000\" data-base=\"47000\" data-full=\"53000\" name=\"launch_support_infrastructure\" type=\"text\" inputmode=\"numeric\" value=\"47,000\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-row\"\u003e\n\u003clabel class=\"fml-capex-label\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eContingency Reserve\u003c\/span\u003e\u003csmall\u003eCovers install overruns, minor scope creep, and price changes.\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/label\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-percent\"\u003e\n\u003cinput data-capex-field=\"contingency_reserve\" data-capex-kind=\"percent\" name=\"contingency_reserve\" type=\"range\" min=\"0\" max=\"20\" step=\"1\" data-lean=\"5\" data-base=\"10\" data-full=\"15\" value=\"10\"\u003e\u003coutput data-capex-output=\"contingencyValue\"\u003e10%\u003c\/output\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/form\u003e\n\u003caside class=\"fml-capex-results\" aria-live=\"polite\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-capex-tag\"\u003eCAPEX total\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-total\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eTotal startup CAPEX\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-capex-output=\"totalCapex\"\u003e$359,700\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdl class=\"fml-capex-result-list\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdt\u003eSubtotal before contingency\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd data-capex-output=\"subtotal\"\u003e$327,000\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdt\u003eContingency amount\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd data-capex-output=\"contingencyAmount\"\u003e$32,700\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdt\u003eLargest cost driver\u003c\/dt\u003e\n\u003cdd data-capex-output=\"largestDriver\"\u003eCore Platform Development\u003c\/dd\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/dl\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-chart\" aria-label=\"CAPEX cost category breakdown\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003ePlatform Dev\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"core_platform_development\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 46%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"core_platform_development\"\u003e46%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eOffice Build-out\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"office_fitout\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 18%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"office_fitout\"\u003e18%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eServers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"server_hardware\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 14%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"server_hardware\"\u003e14%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eWorkstations\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"gis_workstations\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 8%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"gis_workstations\"\u003e8%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-bar-row\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eSupport Systems\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\u003ci data-capex-bar=\"launch_support_infrastructure\" style=\"--fml-capex-share: 14%;\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cb data-capex-share=\"launch_support_infrastructure\"\u003e14%\u003c\/b\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cbutton class=\"fml-capex-export\" type=\"button\" data-capex-export\u003eEXPORT XLSX\u003c\/button\u003e\u003c\/aside\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-capex-note\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"fml-capex-note-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat's excluded\u003c\/strong\u003e Totals capitalized startup assets only. It excludes payroll runway, inventory, marketing, travel, rent deposits treated as prepaid expenses, working capital, debt service, subscriptions, and other operating costs. Hardware and fit-out are depreciated; capitalized software development is amortized over useful life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_new_design_blog\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"text-section_blog text-2_new_design_blog\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"line_top_blog\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eWhat does the startup cost view show?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCAPEX\/startup\u003c\/strong\u003e tab in \u003ca href=\"\/products\/site-selection-financial-model\"\u003eCommercial Site Selection Service Financial Model Template\u003c\/a\u003e shows categories, launch timing, cost amounts, and depr\/amort. Open it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch4\u003eKey model highlights\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e$327k asset schedule\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYear 1 payroll $715k\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYear 1 marketing $120k\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMonth 21 breakeven\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMonth 30 cash low\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"image-section_blog image-2_new_design_blog\"\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"preview-card\" data-preview-src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/site-selection-financial-model-capex-financialmodelslab_da65cd14-bcc8-48c8-a51c-837efd97b17d.webp\"\u003e\n\u003cimg class=\"preview-img\" width=\"100%\" height=\"auto\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/site-selection-financial-model-capex-financialmodelslab_da65cd14-bcc8-48c8-a51c-837efd97b17d.webp?width=500\" alt=\"Commercial Site Selection Service Financial Model capex inputs allowing customization of capital expenditure items, site build-out costs and timing to model investment needs and funding plans, fully customizable.\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"preview-overlay\"\u003e\n\u003cbutton class=\"preview-btn\" type=\"button\" style=\"align-items: center; vertical-align: middle; display: inline-flex; justify-content: center; gap: 6px; line-height: 1;\"\u003e\nPREVIEW \u003csvg fill=\"#fff\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" role=\"presentation\" viewbox=\"0 0 448 512\" width=\"14\"\u003e\u003cpath d=\"M416 176V86.63L246.6 256L416 425.4V336c0-8.844 7.156-16 16-16s16 7.156 16 16v128c0 8.844-7.156 16-16 16h-128c-8.844 0-16-7.156-16-16s7.156-16 16-16h89.38L224 278.6L54.63 448H144C152.8 448 160 455.2 160 464S152.8 480 144 480h-128C7.156 480 0 472.8 0 464v-128C0 327.2 7.156 320 16 320S32 327.2 32 336v89.38L201.4 256L32 86.63V176C32 184.8 24.84 192 16 192S0 184.8 0 176v-128C0 39.16 7.156 32 16 32h128C152.8 32 160 39.16 160 48S152.8 64 144 64H54.63L224 233.4L393.4 64H304C295.2 64 288 56.84 288 48S295.2 32 304 32h128C440.8 32 448 39.16 448 48v128C448 184.8 440.8 192 432 192S416 184.8 416 176z\"\u003e\u003c\/path\u003e\u003c\/svg\u003e\n\u003c\/button\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eHow much funding does a site selection consulting firm need?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA \u003cstrong\u003eCommercial Site Selection Service\u003c\/strong\u003e likely needs about \u003cstrong\u003e$327,000\u003c\/strong\u003e in CAPEX plus launch-period fixed costs, with \u003cstrong\u003e$715,000\u003c\/strong\u003e in Year 1 payroll and \u003cstrong\u003e$120,000\u003c\/strong\u003e in Year 1 marketing. Here’s the quick math: lenders or investors will want the launch budget tied to revenue timing, because project travel is \u003cstrong\u003e10%\u003c\/strong\u003e of revenue, customer acquisition cost is \u003cstrong\u003e$15,000\u003c\/strong\u003e in Year 1, and the model assumes \u003cstrong\u003e45\u003c\/strong\u003e average billable hours per active customer per month, with breakeven in \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 21\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFunding need\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$327,000\u003c\/strong\u003e CAPEX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$715,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Year 1 payroll\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$120,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Year 1 marketing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e10%\u003c\/strong\u003e travel as revenue scales\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eModel checks\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMonth 21\u003c\/strong\u003e breakeven\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e-$185,000\u003c\/strong\u003e minimum cash in Month 30\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMonth 60\u003c\/strong\u003e payback\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$15,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Year 1 CAC\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eHow much does it cost to start a commercial site selection service?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarting a \u003cstrong\u003eCommercial Site Selection Service\u003c\/strong\u003e is not a \u003cstrong\u003e$327,000 CAPEX-only\u003c\/strong\u003e launch; the modeled Year 1 plan shows about \u003cstrong\u003e$1.79 million\u003c\/strong\u003e of launch assets and operating spend before revenue, with \u003cstrong\u003e$859,000\u003c\/strong\u003e revenue and \u003cstrong\u003e-$607,000 EBITDA\u003c\/strong\u003e. For the planning detail, see \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/write-business-plan\/site-selection\"\u003eHow To Write A Business Plan For Commercial Site Selection Service?\u003c\/a\u003e, but fund at least the \u003cstrong\u003e$327,000\u003c\/strong\u003e setup cost plus the \u003cstrong\u003e$607,000\u003c\/strong\u003e operating gap, before travel, receivables timing, and cushion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eModeled cost stack\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$327,000\u003c\/strong\u003e launch CAPEX\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$715,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Year 1 payroll\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$120,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Year 1 marketing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e$288,000\u003c\/strong\u003e annual fixed expenses\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eCost drivers\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSite selection needs paid data\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLabor analysis needs senior staff\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIncentive negotiation adds proposal hours\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBreakeven lands in \u003cstrong\u003eMonth 21\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eWhat hidden costs come with starting a site selection service?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStarting a \u003cstrong\u003eCommercial Site Selection Service\u003c\/strong\u003e has hidden costs before the first invoice: unpaid proposal work, data onboarding, client travel, insurance binders, legal review of master service agreements, confidentiality provisions, CRM setup, conference attendance, and field visits. If you want the setup path, see \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/how-to-open\/site-selection\"\u003eHow To Launch Commercial Site Selection Service?\u003c\/a\u003e—then split those costs from CAPEX and working capital. The model also needs \u003cstrong\u003eproject travel at 10% of revenue\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003ereferral commissions at 5%\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003e$2,500 per month\u003c\/strong\u003e for professional liability insurance, \u003cstrong\u003e$3,000 per month\u003c\/strong\u003e for legal and accounting, and \u003cstrong\u003e$1,200 per month\u003c\/strong\u003e for marketing tools and CRM.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003ePre-opening costs\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUnpaid proposal work hits cash first\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eData onboarding takes time and money\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLegal review slows launch and adds fees\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInsurance binders and travel come early\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch3\u003eRun-rate pressure\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYear 1 EBITDA is -$607,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBreakeven lands in Month 21\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWorking capital must fund delayed receivables\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCRM, legal, and travel stay on monthly spend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eCalculate Fuding Needs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"fml-summary-static\" aria-label=\"Commercial Site Selection Service Startup Cost Summary\" data-locale=\"en-US\" data-currency=\"USD\" data-default-scenario=\"base\" data-export-filename=\"Commercial Site Selection Service Startup Cost Summary.xlsx\" data-site-name=\"Financial Models Lab\" data-site-url=\"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\" data-source-title=\"Commercial Site Selection Service Startup Cost Summary\" data-source-url=\"\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-card\"\u003e\n\u003cheader class=\"fml-summary-static-header\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-summary-static-eyebrow\"\u003eStartup cost summary\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-summary-static-description\"\u003eSummarizes startup CAPEX and excluded cash needs for a commercial site selection consulting firm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-actions\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-scenarios\" aria-label=\"Highlight scenario\"\u003e\n\u003cbutton class=\"fml-summary-static-scenario\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"low\"\u003eLow\u003c\/button\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"fml-summary-static-scenario is-active\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"base\"\u003eBase\u003c\/button\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"fml-summary-static-scenario\" type=\"button\" data-scenario=\"high\"\u003eHigh\u003c\/button\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cbutton class=\"fml-summary-static-export\" type=\"button\" data-summary-export\u003eEXPORT XLSX\u003c\/button\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/header\u003e\u003csection class=\"fml-summary-static-metrics\" aria-live=\"polite\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-metric is-primary\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eHighlighted CAPEX\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-summary-metric=\"capex\"\u003e$300,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003csmall data-summary-metric=\"scenario\"\u003eBase planning example\u003c\/small\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-metric is-warning\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eExcluded cash needs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-summary-metric=\"working\"\u003e$185,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003csmall\u003eOutside CAPEX total\u003c\/small\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-metric\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eFunding need\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong data-summary-metric=\"funding\"\u003e$485,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003csmall\u003eCAPEX + excluded cash needs\u003c\/small\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-summary-static-table-wrap\"\u003e\u003ctable class=\"fml-summary-static-table\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eCost Category\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\" class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate-header\" data-summary-estimate-header\u003eBase Estimate\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eMain Cost Driver\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth scope=\"col\"\u003eCAPEX Calculator\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-summary-row data-low=\"135000\" data-base=\"150000\" data-high=\"175000\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlatform Core Development\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$150,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eBuild the internal site-selection platform\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill\"\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-summary-row data-low=\"52000\" data-base=\"60000\" data-high=\"70000\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOffice Fit-out\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$60,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003ePrepare the office for client work\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill\"\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-summary-row data-low=\"40000\" data-base=\"45000\" data-high=\"52000\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHigh Performance Server Array\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$45,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eSupport data-heavy model runs\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill\"\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-summary-row data-low=\"22000\" data-base=\"25000\" data-high=\"30000\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWorkstation Hardware\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$25,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eEquip analysts and project leads\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill\"\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-summary-row data-low=\"16000\" data-base=\"20000\" data-high=\"24000\" data-capex=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eData Storage Backup Systems\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$20,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eProtect client data and recovery time\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill\"\u003eYes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr class=\"is-excluded\" data-summary-row data-low=\"150000\" data-base=\"185000\" data-high=\"220000\" data-capex=\"false\"\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOperating Reserve\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-estimate\" data-summary-value\u003e$185,000\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd class=\"fml-summary-static-driver\"\u003eCover the modeled cash gap to Month 30\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-pill is-no\"\u003eNo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cfooter class=\"fml-summary-static-note\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-summary-static-note-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanning note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ranges reflect researched assumptions; debt service, owner draws, and expansion funding stay excluded.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003c\/footer\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eCommercial Site Selection Service Core Five Startup Costs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eData, GIS, and Market Intelligence Tools Startup Expense\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eGIS Stack\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou need mapping, labor, transport, competitor, incentive, and real estate data in one stack. One line item is \u003cstrong\u003e$4,500 per month\u003c\/strong\u003e in GIS software licenses, and the rest can be monthly subscriptions, annual contracts, or purchased licenses. No map, no model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-tips-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eData Fees\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere’s the quick math: data subscriptions at \u003cstrong\u003e8%\u003c\/strong\u003e of \u003cstrong\u003e$859,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Year 1 revenue equal about \u003cstrong\u003e$68,720\u003c\/strong\u003e, and cloud infrastructure at \u003cstrong\u003e4%\u003c\/strong\u003e equals about \u003cstrong\u003e$34,360\u003c\/strong\u003e. That spend is usually recurring operating cost unless you build internal systems that qualify for capitalization. Coverage and refresh frequency push it up fast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eSpend Control\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCut cost by narrowing geography before you buy deep data. Start with the metros and labor sheds you’ll actually sell, then add coverage only when live projects need it. Annual contracts can lower unit price, but bought licenses and custom internal tools tie up cash. Better coverage helps; unused coverage is waste.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLimit data to active markets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNegotiate annual terms carefully\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRefresh only high-value datasets\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-pin-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eBudget Mix\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTreat GIS licenses, feeds, and cloud as operating spend, not hardware. The risk is hidden scope: more states, more counties, and deeper point-level detail all raise fees. If a client needs wider coverage or faster refreshes, price that scope into the project. Coverage drives the bill.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eConsultant Staffing and Analyst Readiness Startup Expense\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003ePayroll Base\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLaunch staffing is the biggest cash need here. Year 1 payroll is \u003cstrong\u003e$715,000\u003c\/strong\u003e for a Managing Director at \u003cstrong\u003e$185,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, a Senior Data Scientist at \u003cstrong\u003e$145,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, two Geospatial Analysts at \u003cstrong\u003e$95,000\u003c\/strong\u003e each, a Business Development Manager at \u003cstrong\u003e$110,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, and an Operations Manager at \u003cstrong\u003e$85,000\u003c\/strong\u003e. This is \u003cstrong\u003eworking capital\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003erunway\u003c\/strong\u003e, not CAPEX.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-tips-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat It Covers\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eModel this as headcount × salary × months of coverage, then add taxes, benefits, bonuses, and any contractor overflow. The staffing mix drives \u003cstrong\u003eproposal capacity\u003c\/strong\u003e, GIS analysis, labor analysis, incentive negotiation, and client delivery. If revenue is not steady yet, the payroll plan sets funding timing as much as the total budget.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eRunway Control\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo lower burn without hurting delivery, stage hires against booked work and use contractors only for overflow. Keep the core team focused on proposals and active projects, and avoid loading one analyst with too many sites. If hiring runs ahead of revenue, cash runway shrinks fast before client work ramps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-pin-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eCash Timing\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePayroll should sit beside revenue timing in the funding plan, because this cost comes due before projects fully convert to cash. For a consulting model tied to hours and active clients, the real risk is not the salary line alone; it’s covering payroll long enough to reach steady proposal flow and delivery volume.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eProfessional Setup, Insurance, and Compliance Startup Expense\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eSetup Costs\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEntity formation, an operating agreement, client master service agreement, confidentiality terms, data-use review, \u003cstrong\u003eprofessional liability\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003egeneral liability\u003c\/strong\u003e where needed, \u003cstrong\u003ecyber coverage\u003c\/strong\u003e, and accounting setup form the base. Modeled cost is \u003cstrong\u003e$2,500\/month\u003c\/strong\u003e for professional liability plus \u003cstrong\u003e$3,000\/month\u003c\/strong\u003e for legal and accounting, or \u003cstrong\u003e$66,000\/year\u003c\/strong\u003e combined.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-tips-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eWhat It Covers\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEstimate this with filing fees, draft time, policy quotes, and \u003cstrong\u003e12 months\u003c\/strong\u003e of retainer if you want a full-year budget. Add general liability only if site access or contracts require it. This belongs in startup operating cash, not equipment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eUse standard templates first\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrice cyber and liability separately\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eConfirm contract-driven coverages\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eKeep It Lean\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep the scope tight: reuse core forms, batch redlines, and review data-use limits before sharing workforce, real estate, incentive, or expansion files. Don’t assume a special license; only model one if a jurisdiction or client contract requires it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLimit custom edits\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAsk for annual policy terms\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeparate one-off and recurring work\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-pin-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eWhy Review Matters\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLegal review matters because location decisions use sensitive workforce, real estate, incentive, and expansion strategy data. A clean file set for entity papers, insurance, and accounting also speeds client diligence and helps protect against cyber loss if records or emails are exposed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eBrand, Website, and Business Development Launch Startup Expense\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003ePositioning\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis launch spend covers the story the firm sells: positioning, website, proposal decks, case-study materials, CRM, memberships, conferences, outreach, and travel. Model \u003cstrong\u003e$120,000\u003c\/strong\u003e in Year 1 marketing, with tools and CRM at \u003cstrong\u003e$1,200 per month\u003c\/strong\u003e. In a long-cycle sale, this buys credibility and proposal volume, not instant leads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-tips-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBudget Inputs\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStart with months of coverage, vendor quotes, and event count. Use \u003cstrong\u003e12 months\u003c\/strong\u003e of CRM and tools, then add website build, deck design, memberships, and travel lines. Tie each item to output: proposals sent, meetings booked, and active pursuits. One big deal can take many touches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuote web and deck design\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrice events by attendance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrack proposals per month\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eKeep It Lean\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCut waste by reusing one website, one pitch deck template, and a small case-study library. Pick events with buyer overlap, and cap travel unless a meeting advances a live pursuit. A \u003cstrong\u003e$15,000\u003c\/strong\u003e Year 1 customer acquisition cost is fine only if it supports qualified pipeline, not vanity clicks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"lst_crct_blog\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReuse one core deck\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSkip low-fit conferences\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReview CAC by source\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-pin-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eUtilization Link\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sales engine has to feed enough work to use the team. With \u003cstrong\u003e45 billable hours per month per active customer\u003c\/strong\u003e in Year 1, slow proposal flow creates idle staff fast. Track proposal count, conversion, and start dates together, not just lead count. Weak follow-up can waste a strong brand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eOffice, IT, Travel, and Operating Setup Startup Expense\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl blue_card\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-colons-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eSetup costs\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis bucket covers the physical and digital base: \u003cstrong\u003elaptops\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eGIS-ready workstations\u003c\/strong\u003e, monitors, secure storage, video tools, office furniture, and the HQ shell. Treat durable gear as \u003cstrong\u003eCAPEX\u003c\/strong\u003e, including \u003cstrong\u003e$25,000\u003c\/strong\u003e workstation hardware, \u003cstrong\u003e$60,000\u003c\/strong\u003e office fit-out, \u003cstrong\u003e$15,000\u003c\/strong\u003e security infrastructure, \u003cstrong\u003e$12,000\u003c\/strong\u003e conference room AV, and \u003cstrong\u003e$20,000\u003c\/strong\u003e backup systems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"container_2_clmn_row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_2\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-tips-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eMonthly run-rate\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeparate \u003cstrong\u003eCAPEX\u003c\/strong\u003e from operating spend. Model HQ lease at \u003cstrong\u003e$12,000 per month\u003c\/strong\u003e, telecommunications at \u003cstrong\u003e$800 per month\u003c\/strong\u003e, and project travel at \u003cstrong\u003e10% of revenue\u003c\/strong\u003e. If Year 1 revenue is \u003cstrong\u003e$859,000\u003c\/strong\u003e, travel is about \u003cstrong\u003e$85,900\u003c\/strong\u003e. That keeps fixed overhead visible before you add mileage, lodging, and client meeting costs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-intro-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003eBudget inputs\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuild the budget from quotes, unit counts, and coverage months: number of workstations, furniture sets, meeting rooms, storage units, and months of lease or telecom. One line item can swing fast if you add more sites or more secure data needs. One clean rule: buy only what supports billable capacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"double_border\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"card_smpl_header\"\u003e\n\u003cimg src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/fml_20_fml-Orange-blog-pin-icon.svg\" alt=\"Icon\" class=\"icon_how_to_use\"\u003e\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ffffff;\"\u003eTravel buckets\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTravel starts as a \u003cstrong\u003esales and discovery cost\u003c\/strong\u003e: the team pays for visits, lodging, mileage, and client meetings to win the work. After delivery starts, some travel can shift to reimbursed project spend. Keep those buckets separate, or you will overstate margin on early\ndeals and understate cash needs before invoices clear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #126CFF;\"\u003eCompare 3 Startup Cost Scenarios\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"fml-scenario-table\" aria-label=\"Commercial Site Selection Service Startup Cost Scenarios\" data-site-name=\"Financial Models Lab\" data-site-url=\"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\" data-source-title=\"Commercial Site Selection Service Startup Cost Scenarios\" data-note-label=\"Planning note\" data-note-text=\"These ranges are researched planning assumptions, not vendor quotes, so use them to size runway and staffing before you lock the launch model.\"\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-scenario-table-card\"\u003e\n\u003cheader class=\"fml-scenario-table-header\"\u003e\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-scenario-table-eyebrow\"\u003eStartup cost scenarios\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"fml-scenario-table-description\"\u003eLean keeps cash tight with founders and contractors, Base funds a regional operating model, and Full carries the modeled payroll, office, marketing, and data stack.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-scenario-table-actions\"\u003e\u003cbutton class=\"fml-scenario-table-export\" type=\"button\" data-scenario-export\u003eEXPORT XLSX\u003c\/button\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/header\u003e\u003cdiv class=\"fml-scenario-table-wrap\"\u003e\u003ctable class=\"fml-scenario-table-grid\"\u003e\n\u003ccaption\u003eLean, Base, and Full launch cost comparison\u003c\/caption\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-table-stub\" scope=\"col\" data-export-value=\"Scenario\"\u003eScenario\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-table-column\" scope=\"col\" data-export-value=\"Lean Launch\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-column-title\"\u003eLean Launch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-soft\"\u003eFounder-led\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-table-column\" scope=\"col\" data-export-value=\"Base Launch\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-column-title\"\u003eBase Launch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-soft\"\u003eRegional build\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-table-column\" scope=\"col\" data-export-value=\"Full Launch\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-column-title\"\u003eFull Launch\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-warning\"\u003eScaled model\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr data-scenario-row\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading\" scope=\"row\" data-export-value=\"Launch model\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading-inner\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon is-launch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon-img\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/scenario-launch-model.svg\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-title\"\u003eLaunch model\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Founder-led with contractors, a light office footprint, and a narrow tool stack.\"\u003eFounder-led with contractors, a light office footprint, and a narrow tool stack.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"A regional firm with core data subscriptions, analyst support, targeted travel, and some owned equipment.\"\u003eA regional firm with core data subscriptions, analyst support, targeted travel, and some owned equipment.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"The modeled scale uses $327,000 CAPEX, $715,000 Year 1 payroll, $120,000 marketing, and $288,000 annual fixed expenses.\"\u003eThe modeled scale uses $327,000 CAPEX, $715,000 Year 1 payroll, $120,000 marketing, and $288,000 annual fixed expenses.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-scenario-row\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading\" scope=\"row\" data-export-value=\"Typical setup\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading-inner\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon is-setup\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon-img\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/scenario-typical-setup.svg\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-title\"\u003eTypical setup\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Small team, remote-first delivery, and only the software needed to start selling.\"\u003eSmall team, remote-first delivery, and only the software needed to start selling.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Small in-office core team with enough software and travel budget to serve active clients.\"\u003eSmall in-office core team with enough software and travel budget to serve active clients.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Fully staffed office with broader data access, heavier travel, and higher delivery capacity.\"\u003eFully staffed office with broader data access, heavier travel, and higher delivery capacity.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-scenario-row\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading\" scope=\"row\" data-export-value=\"Cost drivers\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading-inner\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon is-drivers\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon-img\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/scenario-cost-drivers.svg\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-title\"\u003eCost drivers\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Founder time; contractor support; minimal software; low travel; limited equipment\"\u003e\u003cul class=\"fml-scenario-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFounder time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003econtractor support\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eminimal software\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elow travel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elimited equipment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Core data subscriptions; analyst support; targeted travel; owned equipment; basic office setup\"\u003e\u003cul class=\"fml-scenario-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCore data subscriptions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eanalyst support\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003etargeted travel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eowned equipment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ebasic office setup\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"High payroll; office lease; broad data tools; marketing spend; travel capacity\"\u003e\u003cul class=\"fml-scenario-list\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHigh payroll\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eoffice lease\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ebroad data tools\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003emarketing spend\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003etravel capacity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-scenario-row\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading\" scope=\"row\" data-export-value=\"Planning range\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading-inner\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon is-range\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon-img\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/scenario-planning-range.svg\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-title\"\u003ePlanning range\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-subtitle\"\u003eCAPEX only\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"$150,000 - $250,000\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong class=\"fml-scenario-range\"\u003e$150,000 - $250,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-soft\"\u003eLowest cash need\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"$250,000 - $400,000\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong class=\"fml-scenario-range\"\u003e$250,000 - $400,000\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-soft\"\u003eMiddle ground\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"$1.3M - $1.6M\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong class=\"fml-scenario-range\"\u003e$1.3M - $1.6M\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-badge is-warning\"\u003eHighest cash need\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr data-scenario-row\u003e\n\u003cth class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading\" scope=\"row\" data-export-value=\"Best fit\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-heading-inner\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon is-fit\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"fml-scenario-row-icon-img\" src=\"\/cdn\/shop\/files\/scenario-best-fit.svg\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-row-title\"\u003eBest fit\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/th\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Best for founders testing demand in one region before they build a larger team.\"\u003eBest for founders testing demand in one region before they build a larger team.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Best for owners serving one or two regions who want a real operating base without heavy overhead.\"\u003eBest for owners serving one or two regions who want a real operating base without heavy overhead.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd data-export-value=\"Best for teams that can fund a longer runway; the modeled case breaks even in Month 21 and pays back in Month 60.\"\u003eBest for teams that can fund a longer runway; the modeled case breaks even in Month 21 and pays back in Month 60.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fml-scenario-table-note\"\u003e\n\u003cspan class=\"fml-scenario-table-note-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\u003e!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlanning note:\u003c\/strong\u003e These ranges are researched planning assumptions, not vendor quotes, so use them to size runway and staffing before you lock the launch model.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\u003c\/section\u003e","brand":"FinancialModelsLab","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49304346362099,"sku":"site-selection-startup-costs","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0522\/6191\/2762\/files\/site-selection-startup-costs.webp?v=1782692064","url":"https:\/\/financialmodelslab.com\/products\/site-selection-startup-costs","provider":"Financial Models Lab","version":"1.0","type":"link"}