How to prepare your business for a recession from a techstars founder in 2023

If building a startup is hard enough try adding a recession to it. I have been through techstars and so know how hard it really is! Preparing for a recession involves taking steps to protect yourself and your finances from potential economic downturns. A recession is coming quickly and there are a few key things you and your business should do to prepare for it.

Here is an article we wrote earlier about it:

How to build a startup in a recession and downturn from a Techstars COO

In order to build a tech startup in a recession is difficult. If it was not difficult enough before the recession it will certainly be difficult now. Building a startup is difficult to process and you need to be ready for the hard things, by sacrificing your life and even your family for your busine…

FounderBounty. Learn how to build a startup and business with case studies, mentors and courses from the best entrepreneurs.Vlad Kozul

Preparing your business for a recession is crucial to help it survive and thrive during tough economic times. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

1. Build cash reserves: Having cash reserves can help your business survive during a recession. Aim to save at least three to six months' worth of operating expenses.
2. Cut expenses: Review your business expenses and find ways to reduce them. Consider cutting back on non-essential spending and renegotiating contracts with suppliers.
3. Diversify your customer base: Relying on a few key customers can put your business at risk during a recession. Look for opportunities to expand your customer base and diversify your revenue streams.
4. Manage inventory: During a recession, demand for your products or services may decrease. Keep a close eye on inventory levels and adjust your orders to avoid excess inventory.
5. Strengthen your relationships: Build strong relationships with your customers, suppliers, and employees. Communicate with them regularly and be transparent about the challenges your business may face during a recession.
6. Invest in marketing: During a recession, competition for customers may increase. Invest in marketing to stay top of mind and attract new customers.
7. Explore new opportunities: Look for new opportunities to expand your business or enter new markets. Consider partnerships, joint ventures, or acquisitions that can help your business grow.

By following these tips, you can help your business prepare for a recession and increase its chances of surviving and thriving during tough economic times.

Here are some tips to help you prepare yourself:

1. Create an emergency fund: Having an emergency fund can help you weather unexpected financial setbacks. Aim to save three to six months' worth of living expenses in a savings account.
2. Pay down debt: Reducing your debt burden can help free up more of your income and reduce your financial stress during a recession.
3. Diversify your investments: Investing in a variety of assets such as stocks, bonds, and real estate can help protect your portfolio during a downturn.
4. Review your budget: Look for areas where you can cut back on expenses and save more money. Consider reducing discretionary spending and finding ways to save on necessities.
5. Increase your income: Look for ways to boost your income, such as taking on a side job or negotiating a raise at work.
6. Protect your job: Update your resume, network with colleagues and industry contacts, and consider expanding your skill set to make yourself more valuable to your employer.
7. Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on economic trends and news to stay informed about potential changes in the economy and how they may affect you.