business plan for indie authors

Brit Poe | Thriving Scribes

Author Business Foundations , Book Marketing

Business Models For Indie Authors

Welcome back to the 4-part series on crafting your indie author business plan. In the last post, we discussed the key components of your business foundation. If you haven't read part one or part two of this series yet, I recommend you do that first. Today, we are going to dive deep into different business models indie authors can have - which is an important piece of your business plan in general.

A Quick Note Before Diving In

There are so many different business models that an author of any genre could adopt. So for simplicity's sake, I'll be focusing on business models for fiction authors. That's not to say that non-fiction authors won't benefit from this post or can't also incorporate these models into their business, because they definitely could (and quite successfully)! However even though there are some definite overlaps, fiction and non-fiction-based businesses are two separate machines and require a different approach to business models. For this reason, I've written this post with fiction author business models in mind.

Also, keep in mind that as an author you don't have to stick to just one of these models. You can absolutely blend together different ones to form your ideal business model . Many authors have done this as an amazing way to create different streams of income. You know what they say - don't put all of your eggs in one basket. However, it's important to pace yourself and not bite off more than you can chew especially when you are first starting out. I'll touch a bit more on this point at the end of this post.

Ready? Let's dive in!

12 Business Models For Authors

Model 1 - strictly books, single platform.

Sticking strictly to book sales is one of the most common business models for authors, by far. Many of us get into this business because of our passion for writing and storytelling and so this business model feels the most natural progression from that.

When I say "single platform publishing" what I'm referring to is choosing a singular avenue of publishing and selling books. The most popular choice for this strategy is, of course, Amazon's Kindle Direct Publishing , or KDP. When you choose to stay Amazon Exclusive you get added perks and opportunities for marketing and selling through their platform. This is a common choice for authors who publish a high volume of genre fiction. On the other hand, many authors find staying Amazon Exclusive to be limited. 

That's not to say that you can't have diversity in the format of your book - ebook, paperback, hardback, audiobooks, and boxsets are all ways to diversify your product range. It's all about finding what's right for you and your desires for your author business.

Real Life Example:

A steamy romance author publishes her ebook and paperback through Amazon KDP's services and enrolls her ebook into the Kindle Unlimited program.

Model 2 - Strictly Books, Wide For The WIN

As with the first model, this is when an author sticks strickly to publishing books. Only, in this case, they publish on more than one platform.

When you opt for the "wide-publishing" model, you aren't limiting your sales to one store. Typically, an author will submit their books to be published on two or more of the following platforms:

• Google Play Books
• Apple Books
• Barnes and Noble

There are more, of course. But these are the most popular platforms.

An urban fantasy author uses Draft2Digital to publish their ebook to multiple online shops.

Model 3 - Books + Merchandise

Moving on from strictly selling books, the second most common business model for fiction authors is adding in merch. This can be brand merch or book-specific  merch that is geared toward super fans and supporters.

Custom merchandise is not only a great way to serve an existing audience base but also a way to get your brand and work out there. These products can be sold on the author's website or a third-party shop like Etsy .

A children's book author has a merch-package custom designed to include a coloring book, t-shirt, and main character plushy.

Model 4 - Books + Screenwriting

It's the dream of many writers to see their stories on the big screen and with the increase of book-to-movie or book-to-tv show adaptions happening in recent years, this business model can be exciting and lucrative. Make no mistake, writing books and writing screenplays are two entirely different beasts and learning both worlds is a must.

But after your books have been adapted, you could work on selling the screenplay or even try your hand out on directing an indie film.

A contemporary romance author adapts her novel series into a screenplay and sells the rights to a movie production company.

Model 5 - Books + Speaking

In this model book income is supplemented by speaking or events. School visits, libraries, art centers, conventions, or other venue-based gigs are common for in-person events but this can also translate into the online world as well. Authors can take part in interviews, speeches, virtual readings, or even hosting a web-series or podcast of their own and building an audience within a topic relating to your genre / expertise.

A crime-thriller author gives a high school class lecture on forensic science and crime-solving.

Model 6 - Books + Membership / Subscription

There are quite a few different ways to utilize a membership or subscription model as an author for bringing recurring revenue into your business while building a tight-knit community at the same time.

Here are some of the ways I've seen fiction authors utilize this model:

• Early access / bonus content subscription. Subscribers will get early access to pre-released chapters or bonus content. ( A fun perk to this is that your subscribers can basically function like beta readers ).
• Topic-related membership. If you write about a specific theme /  topic, you can build a membership or support community around it.
• Patron subscription. In return for a small monthly contribution, readers get access to bonus content, extras, or a level of contact with the author (think Q+As). Perhaps through a service like Patreon.

An author writes a children's book about a child with a deployed parent and offers a membership for families with a deployed or enlisted member.

Model 7 - Books + Service Provider

This model may be thriving in the non-fiction spectrum, but it can also work for fiction authors. As authors, we naturally build on our skills when it comes to product development, book marketing, etc.

Some authors may offer services like editing, blurb writing, plot consulting, social media marketing, ad management, formating, or more for other authors. Not only is this an amazing way to serve our community, but it can also open up another stream of income for you.

*This is a model in which you'd perhaps have two separate audiences - readers and authors.

An author with an overflowing amount of ideas creates and sells custom and premade book and series concepts for other authors.

Model 8 - Books + Affiliate Marketing

Under this model, authors supplement their book income by recommending products or services to other authors. This is best done when the author is recommending products and services to their readership that they have personally used and believe in and is directly linked to the topic, theme, or world in which the author writes.

Affiliate products are promoted via content marketing in blog posts, social media, email marketing, videos, and podcasts.

A rom-com author with curvy heroines promotes brands who cater to mid and plus-sized fashion.

Model 9 - Books + Infopreneur

Selling information (AKA teaching) is another business model idea for authors depending on the subject matter of their books. You could create workshops, courses, or digital products teaching a specific topic.

Some authors sell information to other authors. For example, holding workshops on developing writing skills or teaching book marketing.

*This is a model in which you'd perhaps have two seperate audiences - readers and authors.

An author who writes about modern-day witches creates a tarot reading for beginners course.

Model 10 - Micro-Fiction

If you have a passion for fiction types outside of the normal novel, this business model could be for you.  These authors write alternative bite-sized fiction like short stories and poems. Publication could happen online, in newspapers, or even magazines.

A horror author writes spooky shorts and publishes them in a horror magazine.

Model 11 - Serializer

Serial fiction has been around for centuries - before television and radio shows adopted this strategy as their own. Luckily for authors who enjoy writing serialized fiction, there are more ways than ever before to publish and get paid for your work online and via popular serial apps. Popular choices are:

• Kindle Vella (upcoming)

A romantic fantasy author writes a serial and publishes it on Kindle Vella.

Model 12 - Author - Influencer

If an author builds a nice-sized platform, they may begin attracting the eye of certain brands who want to sponsor an aspect of an author’s work or content in exchange for exposure to the author’s fans.

An authortuber's Youtube video is sponsored by a related brand.

How do I know which business model to choose?

All options are valid. The trick is picking a monetization method that

1) you enjoy delivering

2) your ideal readers will get value from.

Finding that intersection is the most important part of monetizing your creativity. Basically, for a business model to “fit” what you want to create, it’s got to fit you, your audience, and your big picture vision for your brand. 

To find  your business model, consider the following:

• Who's my author business role model? Who do I look up to?
• How are other authors monetizing their work?
• How will I test my ideas and communicate it's value to my audience?

Once you've found the intersection of what you love to offer AND what your audience will love, you now get to test it out, and validate your ideas. You may think you love offering a certain type of product or service, but you won't know for sure until you try it out and see.

What if I want to combine these business models and do more than one?

As your business grows, it's natural to want to expand your business model in order to get the best results. If you’re already mastering one model, go ahead and add another to the mix and see how it feels/works. If you’re a brand new author, start with one focus so you can gain traction (and dollars and fans) right away.

When it comes to business models, what should I really pay attention to?

Testing and tweaking. Make the right choice for your life right now, and build as you go. Bottom line here: building a successful, sustainable business that truly makes an impact on your and your reader's lives? It takes time and strategy, but you can get there much faster if you use a solid business model. Any and all of these models can be extremely effective when you put in the time and effort, so pick the right one for you.

What business model do you have as author (or desire)? Tell me in the comments below.

Next up in this series on indie author business plans, we’ll be covering the final consideration when it comes to author business plans - release strategies. You’ll find the links to the other posts in this series below once they release. Part 1 - The 3 Pieces To An Author's Business Plan Part 2 - The Key Components of Your Indie Author Business Foundation Part 3 - Business Models For Indie Authors Part 4 - Indie Author Release Strategies 

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

• Follow on Facebook
• Follow on Instagram
• Follow on Good Reads

• Search This Site

A Business Plan for Indie Authors--Part One

****This post was originally published on The Writer’s Guide to ePublishing on October 5, 2012****

This is the first part of a three part series on MY business plan as a self-published author. So many people have heard about my twenty-three page business plan and 1) wondered how I found enough material to fill twenty-three pages 2) heard I wrote a twenty-three page business plan and were too intimidated to try it or 3) both.

Just remember, what works for me or is important to me may not work for you. My hope is if you are a self-published author, this will make you think more about the business part of your career.

When I self-published my first book in July of 2011, my goal was to sell 1000 books by December 31. Six months. At the time, it seemed like a pie-in-the-sky dream. I’d done my research and everything I found said self-publishing was a long tail venture. You start off slow and steadily build your sales—and your readers. Estimates for a first month’s expected sales were around 20-50 books. If I was lucky. And then hopefully, double sales the second month.

What I didn’t count on were the benefits of the social media platform I’d been building for a couple of years. I sold 209 books my first month and 441 books my second. In September, I sold 947 books, obviously hitting my dare-to-dream goal of 1000 books within two months of my release instead of six. (I’m not ashamed to admit that I sobbed like a baby.)

By the end of December, I’d published three more books. (Three of the four were my query backlist) When I looked at the number of books I’d sold–26,000 for the year–I realized I could really make money self-publishing books.

Only I needed a plan.

I realized that there were two parts to this venture. There was the creative, author side that used my imagination and wrote fantastical tales. But even though I hadn’t acknowledged it before, I was a small business owner, and my company sold a product. Books. If I wanted to be successful, I needed to think like a business. My brother had opened a wholesale florist warehouse in Louisville, Kentucky a few years earlier, and part of setting up his venture included writing a business plan. I decided I needed a business plan too.

I’m not gonna lie. I was intimidated. When I started searching the internet for examples, there wasn’t much available for authors. (There are many more now.) So I studied the few writer’s sites I found but decided to go with a more strict business plan like you can find on the Small Business Association (sba.gov). I just picked what sections I found most important. I’m going to share my original business plan and also how it’s changed since I first wrote it.

My business plan is twenty-three pages but don’t let that page count intimidate you. I’m going to take you through it section by section. The first page is a title page that says  2012 Business Plan for Bramagioia Enterprises. The second is my TOC page:

Table of Contents 1. Description of Bramagioia Enterprises 2. Ownership of Bramagioia Enterprises and Location of Business 3. Products 4. Pricing Strategy 5. Financial Plan 6. Production Schedule and Writing Plans 7. Targeted Audience 8. Marketing and Promoting Plan 9. Web Plan 10. Long Term Goals 11. Summary

You can see that I came up with a business name– Bramagioia Enterprises. (Bramagioia is Italian for “yearning for joy” which has a special significance to me.) I use this business name as the publisher when I upload my books on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc. I also consulted an accountant to determine whether my business should be a sole proprietorship or an LLC. Taking into account the tax laws in the state I reside, Missouri, he determined at this time it would be to my advantage to remain a sole proprietorship. My business has a license in the city I reside in and I’m registered with the state.

1) Description of Business

I followed the strict business plan guides and verbiage for these first few pages and honestly, I found it very enlightening. It made me think of my venture as an actual business instead of me playing  let’s pretend . Here’s my description:

Description of Bramagioia Enterprises

The purpose of Bramagioia Enterprises is to spearhead the publishing and merchandising the written creations of Denise Grover Swank. Most creations are novels although some will include novellas, short stories, and flash fiction. Genres at this time include urban fantasy, humorous southern mystery, and young adult paranormal/science fiction. All creations will be available to the public for sale via eBooks and print for novels.

As of January 1st, 2012, Bramagioia Enterprises will provide Denise Grover Swank with minimum income of $1000 per month, which will be raised as needed, when finances are available. All remaining funds will be left in a bank account until further action is deemed necessary. Denise Grover Swank may only take funds that are not allocated for future expenses for the year.

When I created this plan, I set my expectations quite low, but aimed high. Thus I made my monthly personal income from my business pretty low. I’ve since given myself a raise. But not much of one. I think the key point for paragraph two is that I see all funds coming in from my books and related products as part of my business. I can’t just spend money allocated to the business for personal expenses.

You’ll also see that while I am the owner of Bramagioia Enterprises, I refer to the business and myself as in third person, just like an author bio.

2. Ownership of Bramagioia Enterprises and Location of Business

Again, continuing the business model, I forced myself to look at my business (Bramagioia Enterprises) and my expectations for it through a business lens.

Ownership of Bramagioia Enterprises and Location of Business

Bramagioia Enterprises is a sole proprietorship operated and managed by Denise Grover Swank. Bramagioia Enterprises currently has no employees. Consultants such as accountants and attorneys may be hired to offer professional expertise and services. Other professionals will be used to aid the preparation of the creative works of Denise Grover Swank to be made available for sale through various outlets. Such professionals may include but are not limited to: Cover designers, developmental editors, copy editors, proof readers, and book formatters.

Bramagioia Enterprises may need to contract professionals or agents to handle foreign rights or movie right sales or any other rights outside of the realm of expertise for Bramagioia Enterprises. This option will be pursued if the need arises.

Bramagioia Enterprises will be run and operated in a designated office on the residential premises of Denise Grover Swank. Bramagioia Enterprises will provide Denise Grover Swank with a desk and desktop computer, a printer, and a laptop for mobility. Additional software and equipment will be provided if finances are sufficient and a need has been demonstrated.

This has changed. I now have a part-time personal assistant. I also have an agent to help with foreign rights and film rights. I’ve also consulted a literary attorney for contract review.

Another important note is the third paragraph. My business provides my business equipment. I actually have this budgeted into expenses.

Tomorrow will focus on what my products are, my pricing strategy, and how I came up with my financial plan.

Read Part Two here

[…] The first part covers the Table of contents, the business description, and the business ownership and location. Go here to read Part One. […]

[…] Read Part One here […]

Thank you for sharing and helping others follow their dreams. It’s a complete shock to see someone so willing to help someone in the field. My background is filled with non-compete clauses and competition. This is a breath of fresh air.

I think it’s amazing how you include in your schedule time for helping others like yourself, grow to become successful. That you share tips and hints of what to do and where to go. I’ve purchased your self-publishing book and I’ve read it; some parts several times. I think the part that’s missing for me is how in that first year did you sell so many books? What was it that you did to capture reader’s attention? Getting them is one thing, retaining them is another! I’ve joined and advertised at the places you suggested, but I’m struggling! Will it one day click? I did sell a fair amount in the first couple weeks of release, but what other mountain tops can I shout out to let people know I’m over here on this one? My friends and family can only buy so many. 🙂 I sincerely appreciate any reply you might have!

Join My Newsletter

Never miss a release, sale or free book – plus take advantage of subscriber-exclusive giveaways & more!

Where to Buy My Books

My books are also available for purchase in the UK, Australia, and Canada. Check out the translations of my books.

• Women’s Fiction
• Young Adult
• Urban Fantasy & Paranormal Fantasy
• Audio books
• Denise’s Shop
• Denise Grover Swank
• Angela Denise
• Printable Booklist – Denise Grover Swank
• Printable Booklist – D.G. Swank
• Printable Booklist – Angela Denise

PublishingState.com

Starting an Indie Publishing Company: The Definitive Guide

Table of contents, overview of what indie publishing is, benefits of starting an indie publishing company, traditional publishing, indie publishing, more control and flexibility, higher revenue share, faster time-to-market, direct access to readers, success stories, skills and knowledge, startup capital, establishing the business, building your team, overcoming challenges, step 1: create a business plan, step 2: choose a business structure, step 3: register your business, step 4: set up your publishing process, step 5: build your team, step 6: create a website, step 7: secure distribution, step 8: release your first books, step 9: develop an ongoing marketing plan, acquire new authors, expand your genres, increase your market reach, develop multi-channel sales, invest in quality, recap the steps to start an indie publishing company, realize the benefits of owning an indie publisher, take action and start your indie publishing company, introduction.

Independent publishing, or indie publishing, refers to authors and publishers who release their books outside the traditional publishing industry. Rather than working with established publishing houses, indie publishers control the entire publishing process, from editing and design to distribution and marketing.

With the rise of digital publishing and print-on-demand technology, independent publishing has exploded in popularity over the last decade. Today, indie publishers make up a significant and rapidly growing segment of the publishing marketplace.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about starting an independent publishing company. Here’s a quick overview of what’s ahead:

We will begin with an introduction to indie publishing – its history, how it works, and how it differs from traditional publishing. This background will ensure you have a solid understanding of the indie publishing landscape before diving in.

Next, we’ll explore the many advantages of owning an indie publishing company. From higher royalties to creative control, there are plenty of reasons why starting an indie press can be deeply rewarding financially and creatively.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have all the knowledge and tools you need to start your own successful indie publishing company.

Understanding Indie Publishing

Indie publishing is the process of book publishing outside the traditional publishing mechanism. Unlike major publishing houses, indie or independent publishers are small presses, self-publishing authors, or artists who design, produce, and distribute their books.

Indie publishing has roots dating back to the early days of the printing press but has seen a major resurgence in recent years thanks to digital printing and online retail channels giving independent authors more control over their work.

Here are some key differences between traditional and indie publishing:

• Books are acquired and edited by publishing house editors .
• Publishers provide editing, design, printing, marketing, and distribution services.
• Authors receive advances and royalties on book sales.
• Publishers control rights and creative direction.
• It is difficult for new authors to get published by major houses.
• Authors self-publish and retain full rights and creative control.
• Authors are responsible for their editing, design, and marketing.
• Authors keep a higher percentage of royalties but no advance payment.
• Easier for new authors to self-publish , primarily through print-on-demand.
• Indie authors can distribute through online retailers and build their audience.

While traditional publishing still dominates the industry in sales, indie publishing has grown tremendously in the past decade. Some authors now choose to self-publish, citing higher royalties and creative freedom as advantages.

Hybrid authors who self-publish and publish traditionally with established publishing houses also exist. Overall, indie publishing opens up more opportunities for authors to get their work out to readers.

Why Starting an Indie Publishing Company Can Be a Good Move?

Starting your own indie publishing company offers many advantages over traditional publishing. Here are some of the key benefits:

With an indie publishing company, you have complete control over your publications. You can make all the decisions – from manuscript acquisition to editing, design, marketing, and more. This gives you the flexibility to publish the books you are passionate about, regardless of trends and demands.

Traditional publishers typically offer authors only 10%-15% royalty on book sales. By starting your own publishing company, you can offer authors a much higher cut of 40%-60% and still earn good profits.

You don’t have to wait months or years to get a book published. Due to the smaller number of manuscripts in the pipeline, indie publishing has shorter turnaround times, enabling you to capitalize on trends and release books faster.

With your indie publishing company, you can build direct relationships with readers rather than rely on bookstore placements. This allows you to understand your audience better.

Indie publishing has enabled the rise of many successful authors and publishers. For example, Andy Weir’s sci-fi novel The Martian and E.L. James’ Fifty Shades trilogy began as indie publications before becoming global sensations.

Other leading indie publishers include Sourcebooks and W.W. Norton & Company – showing there is a viable business model in independent publishing.

The advantages demonstrate why starting your own indie publishing company can be deeply rewarding, creatively and financially. It empowers you to publish the books you believe in while retaining control over your brand and vision.

Essential Prerequisites to Starting an Indie Publishing Company

Starting an indie publishing company requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some of the key requirements aspiring indie publishers should consider before taking the plunge:

While passion for books is essential, you’ll also need business savvy, strong editorial skills, and a good understanding of the publishing industry.

Familiarity with the book publishing workflow – from manuscript acquisition to editing, design, production, marketing, and distribution – is essential. If you lack experience in certain areas, consider taking relevant courses or partnering with others who can fill those gaps.

Starting a publishing company requires a significant upfront investment. You’ll need capital for overhead costs like office space, equipment, software, inventory, and staff. We’re looking at tens of thousands of dollars of investment here.

Plan for at least 12 months of operating costs before generating revenue. Crowdfunding, loans, personal savings, and investors are potential funding sources.

Take legal and administrative steps to establish your indie publishing house as a formal business. Choose a business structure and name, obtain licenses and permits, set up accounting, and understand tax obligations. Seek assistance from lawyers, accountants, and the Small Business Administration.

Even lean startups need some staff. Carefully choose freelancers or employees to handle key roles like editing , design, marketing, and operations. Outsource what you can initially. Prioritize hiring staff with industry experience and an entrepreneurial spirit.

Undercapitalization, unclear goals, and lack of experience are common pitfalls. Mentorships, training programs, and joining industry groups can help overcome knowledge gaps. Start small, focus on quality over quantity, and reinvest profits to grow sustainably. Perseverance and adaptability are vital.

With thorough planning, commitment, and passion, these prerequisites are achievable for aspiring indie publishers willing to work hard.

Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Indie Publishing Company

Starting an indie publishing company takes careful planning and execution. Here is a step-by-step guide to launching your publishing business:

Every new business needs a solid business plan. Your plan should outline your company’s mission, target audience, publication genres, marketing strategy, and financial projections. Having a clear roadmap will help guide your efforts.

Decide whether you want to operate as a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or LLC . Each structure has different legal and tax implications. Consult with an attorney and accountant to determine the best fit.

Register your indie publishing company with the proper state and federal agencies. You’ll likely need a business license, sales tax ID, and publisher’s imprint. This makes your business official.

Map out your path for taking a manuscript to a finished book. This includes editing, design, printing, warehousing, distribution, etc. You can outsource specific tasks or do them in-house.

Surround yourself with talented professionals like editors, designers, marketers, lawyers, accountants, and assistants. This is where you can offer employment opportunities to those aspiring to have a career in publishing . Your team will help guide your success.

Your website establishes your brand online. Make sure it accurately represents your company and offerings. Allow authors to query you directly through the site.

Partner with a book distributor to get your titles into bookstores and online retailers. Popular options include Ingram and Baker & Taylor. Distribution is essential for sales.

It’s time to bring your books to market! Make sure you have marketing activities planned around your launches. Seek reviews, media coverage, and author events to promote each release.

Marketing is vital for indie publishing success. Continuously promote your company and authors through social media, ads, email newsletters, and other avenues.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to launching and growing your own profitable indie publishing company.

Growing and Sustaining Your Indie Publishing Business

Growing an indie publishing company requires dedication, strategic thinking, and perseverance. Here are some tips for expanding your indie publishing business:

Seeking out talented yet undiscovered writers is essential for building your catalog. Attend writing conferences and workshops to connect with aspiring authors. Set up a user-friendly submission process. Offer competitive royalties and responsive communication to attract writers. Promote your openness to new authors on your website and social media.

While specializing in a niche can be advantageous, expanding into new popular genres allows you to attract more readers. Research current trends and look for underserved genres. Start by publishing single titles in new genres before committing to an entire series. Adapt your branding and marketing as you diversify your catalog.

Boosting visibility and sales requires persistence. Optimize metadata so your books appear in more searches. Run promotions and advertise in relevant spaces like Bookbub and Goodreads. Build relationships with book bloggers and influencers to get reviews. Consider audiobooks and translations to access more markets. Attend book fairs and conventions to network.

Diversify beyond just selling print and ebooks. Sell directly from your website in addition to retailers like Amazon. Explore emerging platforms such as BookTok . Distribute to libraries and schools. License foreign rights and subsidiary rights like movie adaptations. Multi-channel sales provide more income streams.

Producing high-quality books ensures long-term sustainability. Hire professional editors, designers, and marketers. Standardize and systemize processes to increase efficiency. Continuously improve your publishing skills through courses and conferences. Prioritize releasing consistently great books over quantity. With dedication, some can become bestsellers .

With strategic growth, dedication to quality, and persistence, indie publishers can build thriving businesses. Focus on serving your authors and readers, and your company can flourish.

Conclusion: Embrace the World of Indie Publishing

Starting an indie publishing company can be an incredibly rewarding endeavor. As discussed throughout this guide, indie publishing allows you the freedom and flexibility to publish the books you are passionate about, retain control over your business, and reap the full benefits of your success.

If you love books and the drive to succeed, there is no reason not to plunge into indie publishing. While it does require hard work, dedication, and smart business decisions, the potential rewards make it well worth the effort.

Let’s do a quick recap of the key steps covered in this guide:

• Research the indie publishing industry and business models.
• Write a solid business plan for your company.
• Register your business legally.
• Build up your team with editors, designers, etc.
• Create a brand identity and author guidelines.
• Seek out authors and acquire manuscript rights.
• Edit, design, and produce your books professionally.
• Develop a marketing and distribution strategy.
• Release and promote your first books.
• Continuously grow your author pool and catalog.

Following these steps will put you on your way to launching a successful indie publishing company.

Some of the many benefits of starting your own indie publishing company include:

• Complete creative control over the books you publish.
• Flexibility in your publishing schedule and catalog.
• Ability to publish niche books overlooked by big publishers.
• Higher profit margins on each book sold.
• Direct relationships with your authors.
• Full ownership over your brand and business.
• Potential for rapid growth and success.

As you can see, indie publishing puts you in the driver’s seat and allows you to steer your company in the direction you want. When done correctly, owning an indie publishing company can be extremely financially and creatively rewarding.

If starting your own indie publishing company is your dream, there’s no time to turn that dream into a reality like the present. Your indie publishing company can grow into a thriving business with hard work and smart decisions.

Do your research, make a plan, and take that first step. With passion and perseverance, you can make your mark on indie publishing. Don’t let anything hold you back from embracing this exciting endeavor.

1 thought on “Starting an Indie Publishing Company: The Definitive Guide”

• Pingback: 5 Key Steps to Writing an Effective Cover Letter for a Publishing Job

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Kindlepreneur

Book Marketing for Self-Publishing Authors

Indie Author Business Plan Success

How to create a business plan for your indie author business

Who is this course for?

• Indie authors who want to create a business plan to help them be more successful

What you’ll learn

• What the key components of your business plan is
• How to put together a business plan for the year
• How and when to revise your business plan

About the course

This is a course I’ve created to show you how to create your own business plan.

You will also learn:

• What the key components of your business plan is.
• How to put together a business plan for the year.
• How and when to revise your business plan.

When you are done with this class you will have a written business plan that will help you grow your indie author business.

Course Content

Taylor ellwood, review this course, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Not recommended
• Amazing! Highly Recommended

Similar Courses

Unblocking your writing, business systems success, newsletter success, join the community.

Join 111,585 other authors who receive weekly emails from us to help them make more money selling books.