Turning a great idea into a company requires meticulous planning and savvy execution. This primer offers a realistic view of what you can expect and what has worked (or not worked) for other founders.

From pitching your ideas to obtaining funding to choosing a co-founder and building your team, the journey from inspiration to a successful launch can be complicated and challenging. This primer will acquaint you with the finer points of seeking VC funding, getting your business off the ground, and navigating the hazards you may encounter along the way. It also gives you a behind-the-scenes look at several startups that are making a go of it:

• Flightcar
• Indiegogo
• Kiva
• Squify
• Black Girls Code
• Beam