BC
BizCalc

Startup Cost Calculator

Estimate your total startup costs across 12 categories. Get a realistic budget before you launch.

One-Time Startup Costs

$

LLC filing, licenses, permits, legal fees

$

Domain, hosting, software subscriptions

$

Computers, furniture, tools

$

First + last month rent, deposits

$

Logo, business cards, initial ad spend

$

Initial stock (if applicable)

$

General liability, professional liability

$

Accountant, bookkeeper setup

$

If hiring employees from day 1

$

Cash buffer for the first 3-6 months

$

Courses, certifications, books

$

10-20% buffer for unexpected costs

Monthly Operating Costs (Runway)

$

Rent + utilities + subscriptions + food

months

How long until revenue covers expenses?

Total Startup Costs

$26,000

One-time expenses

Runway Needed

$18,000

6 months at $3,000/mo

Total Capital Needed

$44,000

Startup costs + runway

Cost Breakdown

Inventory$5,000
Working Capital$5,000
Equipment$3,000
Marketing & Branding$2,500
Website & Tech$2,000
Office / Workspace$2,000
Other / Contingency$2,000
Legal & Registration$1,500
Insurance$1,500
Professional Services$1,000
Training & Education$500

How to Estimate Startup Costs

Most startups underestimate their costs by 30-50%. This calculator helps you build a realistic budget by breaking costs into 12 categories plus a runway buffer.

Tips for Keeping Costs Low

  • Start with free tiers (hosting, software, marketing tools)
  • Use a home office instead of renting space
  • Validate before investing in inventory or equipment
  • Always keep a 10-20% contingency buffer