Business idea, need suggestions

[PDGTech]

So a lot of close family members have started their own businesses at one point in time or another. I feel it is my turn to do so.

Here is my idea
I want an umbrella company. This is called PDG Tech or PDG Technologies. It is a name that i have used for years. Under PDG Tech, I want to have a company or division that does website design. I have developed half a dozen sites and current design and maintain two osCommerce sites for a small company. I also want to have a computer repair and personal network setup company. But I want it to be called a different name than my web design company. Since I have been developing these osCommerce sites, I want to have my own dropshipping performance car part e-business, again with its own name. ( I blame my ADD)

Since PDG are my initials, does this count as a my name and a company name so that I do not have to file for a name registration with my state? How would I organize this or does it need to be organized as a LLC instead of a sole proprietorship? The only liabilities I could conceive would be with the computer repair business. These ideas would cost very little to get started and would probably all start small with just me doing it in addition to my regular job until business grows to a point of self sustainably.

Thoughts?

[noob]

You will need to register the name because its not just your first and last name and initials don't count. That said fees vary from state to state and location if you're out of the country.

[PDGTech]

Register name... Check

Organization?

[Earthbound01]

I think an LLC would be best for what you're talking about. A separate entity would be best for an umbrella company for organization especially because of the legal protection in my opinion.

[krasalexander]

Hello! If of you need the outsourcing partner in web design, web development or programming, I can help you with great pleasure. :-)

[myfayt]

This is actually what I wanted to do back in the day. I wanted to have a "tri-business". Three different businesses operating in the same building.

- Vinyl Sign Making
- Web Design
- Video Editing

But sadly this fell through really quick, due to lack of funding and inexperienced employees.

[SeaSquirrel]

I would create your LLC and register the companies under your LLC to protect yourself. Start with the company you are most successful with and build it up to a point then start the second and then third. You could always register the FFN early to make sure you have the name you want.

[Chris Brooks]

To go along with the other post start as an LLC. The filling can be done online and for a little over a 100 bucks. Plus it is much easier to move up into different structures than it is to move down. For example say you start a C corp and find it too big for your needs and want to move down to an LLC. That will be hard and full of legal trouble. Start small with an LLC and as time permits move up into the C corp.

[PDGTech]

so LLC
Would I have to have separate business licenses for each different business or would my umbrella LLC take care of that?

[Neustance]

One LLC is good for all business under it. They are just services you offer. Keep in mind that if one fails, fall in bankruptcy, lawsuit, etc...so will the other ones.

Don't see this being such a risky business but who knows...maybe someone can advice you better here.