To become a nightclub owner, the most important thing to do is actually open the nightclub. While a business degree and management experience can be helpful, they are not a necessary part of becoming a nightclub owner. The main thing you will need, in fact, is funding for your nightclub. Opening any type of business will take a lot of money and possibly some investors, and a nightclub is no exception. Once you have the money for your nightclub, you can start focusing on how to become the owner and run the club.

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Figure out what type of nightclub you want to open. A cocktail lounge, for example, will likely have a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere, while a dance club will be large and loud with a fast-moving atmosphere. You can also open a club that’s in the middle such as a club that features a live band.

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Obtain the necessary licenses and permits, such as to sell alcohol, assuming that your nightclub will serve both beer and liquor. Check with your local government to find out what type of license or permits you need to have. These generally require filling out paperwork and paying a set fee. Licenses and permits can cost $35,000 to $45,000 or more.

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Research your target market, such as young college students or singles in their thirties and forties. Your local Chamber of Commerce can provide you with statistics, while local magazines and newspapers can fill you in on entertainment trends. The competition and your alcohol suppliers can also be resources.

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Find a spot for your nightclub. This should be located somewhere that your target market congregates. For example, if you’re targeting college students, locate the nightclub somewhere near a college campus or dorm rooms. Note the cost for rent, as well as the size of the venue, before deciding.

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Calculate approximately how much you need for start-up costs. You will need money for your licenses and permits, initial investment in inventory, any staff you need to hire, renting the space, utilities, insurance and services, including marketing, accounting and legal services.

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Hire your staff. The staff of your nightclub should reflect the atmosphere you’re creating. For example, if you’re starting a gentlemen’s nightclub, your staff should be attractive women, rather than older men. However, you should focus on hiring the most qualified candidates for management and bartending positions.

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Name your nightclub. Again, the name needs to reflect your target audience. It needs to be something that will appeal to people you want inside your nightclub. For example, John’s Nightclub is not going to appeal to most nightclub crowds, but “The Cell” might be just the modern, fast-paced type of name you need.

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Advertise the nightclub before your grand opening. Start advertising at least two months ahead of time. Hiring a professional advertising or marketing company can help make your grand opening more of a success. Once your nightclub is open, you have officially become a nightclub owner.