Start-up costs, the one-time expenses you need to incur before you make your first sale, are one type of cost you’ll need to estimate when starting a small business. This free Start-Up Costs Calculator is a template that'll help you get an idea how much it will cost to start your business. Carefully consider your start-up needs, and be honest about how much your start-up costs will be. It’s better to make a mistake on paper than on opening day!