Author-funded publishing press

Authors such as local writers, professionals with a business book, memoirists and community groups.

Package fees for editing, design and setup, plus a share of book sales or a small fee for ongoing distribution and marketing support.

• Project management
• Knowing the editing and book production process
• Clear communication with first-time authors
• Managing freelance editors and designers

• The industry has a history of unfair author-pays operations, so be open about costs, what you do and what results to expect
• Make sure contracts are reviewed by an attorney and do not promise sales you cannot deliver
• General liability or professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance, ask a broker what fits
• Check your state and city for business license and sales tax rules
• Copyright and permissions problems in manuscripts you publish

Startup costs are typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on your website, contracts, insurance and any freelance editors or designers you line up. Check with an insurance broker about what coverage fits your services.

The industry has a history of unfair author-pays operations, so be open about costs, what you do and expected results. Have an attorney review contracts, avoid promising sales, and check insurance, business license, sales tax and copyright or permissions issues.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $5,000, depending on how many authors you work with and the services you offer. The estimate assumes at least about 12 hours a week of project work.