You don’t need a degree to build a business, but the right credential can open doors that talent and hustle alone can’t. This guide helps founders decide when an MBA, a J.D., or a professional certification is worth the cost by asking one question: does it unlock a specific, currently closed door? It also covers ways to offset the price, including external scholarships, and urges founders to get strategic clarity before committing to any program.

Leaving your job and making the switch to entrepreneurship can be daunting. But if you have the right expertise, take precautions, and work hard, there’s no reason why starting your own business isn’t a risk worth taking. For the first-time entrepreneur, good advice is golden. Maikoa Consulting shares some general tips to help put you on the right track.