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After assisting thousands of entrepreneurs and investors launching businesses in the United States, we’ve seen the same errors repeated over and over again. The good news? These mistakes are avoidable if you know what to look out for.
Whether you are applying for a U.S. visa tied to your business, buying a franchise, or starting your own venture from scratch, avoiding these pitfalls can mean the difference between thriving and failing. Here are the three most common mistakes new business owners make—and how you can steer clear of them.
Mistake #1: Skipping the Business Plan
Would you ever try to assemble a complicated piece of furniture without the instruction manual? Most people would fail or waste hours trying. The same is true for starting a business.
A strong business plan is not optional: it is your roadmap to success. At its best, it provides a clear, step-by-step strategy to follow. At its worst, it serves as a guide you can turn to when things inevitably get messy.
But the benefits don’t stop there:
A solid business plan is often required for visa petitions and loan applications.
It answers the tough questions before an adjudicator, consular officer, or investor even asks them.
It shows commitment, credibility, and foresight—qualities every official looks for in an entrepreneur.
Without a plan, you’re guessing your way forward, and guesswork is no strategy for success.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Market Research
Imagine telling a joke that no one laughs at. The problem isn’t always the joke—it’s that you didn’t know your audience.
The same applies in business. Many entrepreneurs fail because they don’t take time to understand their market. Solid market research helps you know:
Who your customers are (demographics, preferences, behaviors)
Who your competitors are and how to stand out
What local regulations and industry standards may affect you
How to price your product or service competitively
When and how your customers are most likely to buy
Data-driven decisions reduce risk and increase your odds of success. In fact, studies show that lack of demand is one of the top reasons new businesses fail. Market research isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
Mistake #3: Trying to Do Everything Alone
Entrepreneurs are often fiercely independent. While confidence and drive are strengths, they can backfire if you refuse to seek help.
The truth is, you can’t be an expert at everything. Trying to do it all yourself slows growth and exposes your business to unnecessary risk. Smart entrepreneurs surround themselves with experts who can:
Stop bad ideas before they waste money
Provide reassurance when you’re on the right track
Offer specialized skills in marketing, accounting, legal, and operations
Open doors through networking and connections
Think of it this way: if you were climbing Mount Everest, would you hire a guide who has never been there, or someone who has successfully reached the summit multiple times?
The same principle applies to business. Surround yourself with the best advisors you can afford. Invest in marketing and networking support that helps establish your business in the market and builds credibility for the long run.
The Bottom Line
Launching a business in the United States is exciting, but it’s also complex. Skipping the business plan, neglecting market research, or trying to go it alone can derail even the most promising idea.
At Visa Business Plans, we’ve helped thousands of entrepreneurs avoid these costly mistakes. From creating investor-ready business plans to providing one-on-one coaching and marketing guidance, we can set you up for success.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you build, grow, and succeed in the U.S. market.
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The information provided in this blog is intended solely for informational purposes. While we strive to offer accurate and up-to-date content, it should not be considered legal advice. Immigration laws and regulations are subject to change, and individual circumstances can vary widely. For personalized guidance and legal advice regarding your specific immigration situation, we strongly recommend consulting with a qualified immigration attorney who can provide you with tailored assistance and ensure compliance with current laws and regulations.
Visa Business Plans is led by Marco Scanu, a certified coach from the University of Miami with a globally-based practice coaching Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, as well as professionals in four different continents. Mr. Scanu advises clients on turnaround strategies and crisis management.
Mr. Scanu received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Cum Laude) from the University of Florida and an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital, and high-growth enterprises.
At present, Mr. Scanu is the managing partner and CEO at Visa Business Plans, a Miami-based boutique consulting firm providing attorneys and investors with business planning services in the areas of U.S. and Canadian immigration, SBA loans, and others.
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