Starting an indie publishing company

Starting an Indie Publishing Company: The Definitive Guide

by

Table of Contents

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:

Overview of What Indie Publishing Is

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.

Benefits of Starting an Indie Publishing Company

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.

Starting an 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:

Traditional 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.

Indie Publishing

  • 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:

More Control and Flexibility

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.

Higher Revenue Share

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.

Faster Time-to-Market

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.

Direct Access to Readers

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.

Success Stories

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:

Skills and Knowledge

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.

Startup Capital

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.

Establishing the Business

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.

Building Your Team

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.

Overcoming Challenges

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:

Step 1: Create a Business Plan

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.

Step 2: Choose a Business Structure

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.

Step 3: Register Your Business

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.

Step 4: Set Up Your Publishing Process

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.

Step 5: Build Your Team

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.

Step 6: Create a Website

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

Step 7: Secure Distribution

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.

Step 8: Release Your First Books

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.

Step 9: Develop an Ongoing Marketing Plan

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:

Acquire New Authors

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.

Expand Your Genres

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.

Increase Your Market Reach

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.

Develop Multi-Channel Sales

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.

Invest in Quality

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.

Recap the Steps to Start an Indie Publishing Company

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.

Realize the Benefits of Owning an Indie Publisher

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.

Take Action and Start Your Indie Publishing Company

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”

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

Leave a comment