Architect + Entrepreneur Startup Toolkit


Tools + resources for your entrepreneurial design practice

Yes, give me access

The to-do list for architecture startups is long.

There's letterhead, logos, your website, and branding to design; systems to put in place to ensure the brand you're creating can deliver on its promises. How are new clients processed and welcomed? What will you charge? What business structure and revenue model makes the most sense?

All this before you put pen to trace.

Most new businesses cobble together systems ad hoc on an as-needed basis.

What if the systems, tools, templates, and worksheets were done for you, available and ready when you needed them on day one?

The Architect + Entrepreneur: Startup Toolkit is the foundational resource every startup design practice needs.

This toolkit is a collection of curated resources used to run 30X40 Design Workshop (templates, workbooks, documents, SOPs, etc.) I've refined them over the 10 years I've been in business and made them available to you so you can get started on the right foot with current best practices. You'll download them, customize them to suit your needs and use them to help build + operate your design practice.

Watch the Toolkit Unboxing Video

See what's included


Yes, give me access

Like most people, I wanted a sure thing

Before setting out on my own and establishing 30X40 Design Workshop, I searched for a step-by-step instruction manual on how to build a successful architecture practice.

I wanted to see the road map and know where I was going before I arrived.

I wanted a plan for guaranteed success.

My search turned up little.

A few tired and outdated publications by the American Institute of Architects, "The Handbook for Professional Practice" and, "The Architect’s Essentials of Starting a Design Firm" both read like contracts.

They were written for those seeking to build colossal firms, not someone like me hoping to build a lifestyle business in the 21st century.

So, I had to create my own.

The Startup Toolkit is the result.


I designed it as the foundational resource every startup design practice needs and you’ll find guides, workbooks, templates, and SOPs like these

Latest update: June 27, 2024 (new assets added)

Your Design Business Roadmap

  • Downloadable PDF roadmap
  • Detailed tutorial + video walkthrough

Branding Tools (Value $79)

  • Your Brand Plan (A+E Course Excerpt: video + curated resources + Igor naming guide)
  • Branding Workbook (19 page PDF) + Business Model Canvas (PDF/JPG)
  • Branding Assets: Letterhead, Curated Links
  • Business Card Guide + Template (PDF, Images, PSD)

Organizational Tools (Value $99)

  • Choosing a Business Structure + Cheat Sheet (video lesson + PDF) - A+E Course excerpt
  • Revenue Model Guide (video lesson) - A+E Course excerpt
  • Business Folder Structure (.zip)
  • Profit + Rate Toolkit for Design Professionals (.xls + PDF)
  • Cash Flow Projection Spreadsheet (.xls + video walkthrough) with Quarterly Tax Estimator
  • Project Fee Track (.xls)
  • Accounting Resources

Architectural Services Proposal + Tools (Value $149)

  • Services Proposal template
  • Supporting Resources

Marketing, Process Tools + Swipe Files (Value $99)

  • New Client Design Process Guide (13 page PDF)
  • New Client Pre Qualifying + Interview Questions – (4 page PDF)
  • Email Templates (8 page PDF) + Social Media Icon Pack - B&W (PNGs)
  • Email Capture/Marketing Resources (4 page PDF)
  • Business + Project SOP templates
  • Zoning + Code Checklist (4 page PDF/Keynote)
  • New Client Authorization Letter (Word)
  • New Client Welcome Checklist (Word) – 2 pages
  • New Client Questionnaire + Form links (12 page PDF + Form)
  • New Client Programming Worksheet + Room Size Guide - (4 page PDF/Excel/Keynote/Powerpoint)
  • Field Report Template (PDF/Word/Keynote/Powerpoint)
  • Shop Drawing Stamp (PDF, PSD)
  • General Project Information Document (Word) – 1 page
  • Meeting Notes Document (Word) – 1 page

Client-Ready Presentation Templates (Value $99)

  • Hardware + Fittings Presentation Documents (8 page PDF/Keynote/Powerpoint)
  • Lighting Presentation Documents (9 page PDF/Keynote/Powerpoint)
  • Material Palette Presentation Documents (7 page PDF/Keynote/Powerpoint)
  • Plumbing Fixture Presentation Documents (8 page PDF/Keynote/Powerpoint)
  • Interior Design Presentation Document Mock-up (PDF/Keynote/Powerpoint

Check the curriculum below to see everything that's included in the Startup Toolkit

Course Curriculum


  Introduction
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Branding Tools + Resources
Available in days
days after you enroll
  Organizational Tools + Resources
Available in days
days after you enroll

I created this collection of resources as the aid I was seeking when I transitioned from employee to founder. And over the years, I’ve refined everything in the Startup Toolkit based on my own experience running my business.

You'll download them, customize them to suit your needs and use them to help build + operate your design practice.

And I've also included a few sample lessons from the Architect + Entrepreneur Course as a bonus to help you get started.

Yes, give me access

Interested in the Full A+E Course?

Watch the Course Unboxing


Learn from an experienced practitioner

When you're choosing to invest in tools and resources for your business, to find better clients, or design a life that's more congruent with your values, you want to learn from an experienced practitioner.

Your Instructor


Eric Reinholdt, RA, NCARB
Eric Reinholdt, RA, NCARB

Hi, I'm Eric, an award-winning architect, entrepreneur and founder of 30X40 Design Workshop, a design studio located on Mount Desert Island, Maine. I'm also author of the Architect + Entrepreneur book series and creator of the most popular architecture-focused YouTube channel online. I've been designing simple, modern residential architecture for more than 28 years and a practitioner of all the novel, entrepreneurial business strategies I teach in my courses.


Here are some examples of my work:

There’s a meaningful difference between someone who simply teaches principles and someone who has actually implemented those principles in the field, to find clients and generate passive income. I know what works and what doesn’t because I've done it.

Learning from my mistakes will put you ahead of your competition.

3,000+ Design Professionals are using the Startup Toolkit.

Here’s what they’re saying...

"I've purchased everything and it has totally transformed my business practice and also my way of thinking. Can't thank you enough."

- Gough. Designer.

"I have been enjoying the toolkit. Even after 30 years of practice, I'm still learning, thanks for sharing your knowledge. Would like to get into the full A&E course next. Cheers"

- Robert. Architect.

"I run a small architecture firm in Canada and have changed my career + firm's approach because of what I've learned using your toolkit and the A+E Course."

- Lisa T.

"Thank you for making the Startup Toolkit available. I've had my company for 5 years and have been looking to analyze and straighten up my process since we grew so fast. This is just the thing I needed."

- Andrew G.

"I'm kicking myself...why didn't I order this like 12 months ago!? It's beautiful!"

- Courtney S.

"I recently purchased the Startup Toolkit; what an invaluable investment for me as I continue to navigate the world of architecture and entrepreneurship. The content and expertise your courses offer are exactly what I needed as I continue to build my skills and understanding in this field."

- Orlando W.

"Just wanted to give you a big thanks for putting this content together! I plan on utilizing these tools to help start up my own business and youtube channel.
Thanks again, Eric!"

- Henry W.

"Just purchased your Architect+Entrepreneur Startup Toolkit as I am fully enveloped in taking my Drafting & Design business to new heights. Have recently utilized the client proposal template to update my dated one, very comprehensive, well thought out, a lot in line with what I like to provide, thank you for the most valuable resource in the toolkit."

- Peter J. K.

"I'm transitioning out of the huge corporate world and into a smaller (and hopefully more sane) practice of my own and have found this to be helpful, interesting and inspirational."

- Ben P.

"All of your content is shaping the way I practice, what a great investment this is. Keep making things, you are inspiring many people and I am one of them."

- John A.

"Thank you so much Eric for giving value so generously."

- Yianni T.

"I purchased the startup toolkit and I'm listening to your book on audible too. I just wanted to make it clear that as someone 5-7 years behind you on a very similar path, you're helping me immensely. You're increasing my confidence and some of the materials are totally transformative. You're essentially making mentorship scalable. Just wanted to say thanks!"

- Nick B.

"I am an architect in Scotland and have set up my own practice earlier this year after many years working for others. I just wanted to say thank you for your templates and videos - these have been a great source of inspiration and practicality that have helped me make the jump."

- Alastair F.

"I simply want to express how much I appreciate your educational materials and course. Very excited about completing and implementing the toolkit and course work, and will be happy to share some of my success with you as it comes. My latest is I just landed my first ground up waterfront home project in Maryland...very exciting!"

- Will A.

"I just went through your profitability course and am so grateful for the spreadsheet. Building my own office is somewhat like building the plane in the air, to a degree, and I wish I had this template many moons ago. Thanks SO much."

- Stephanie M. Architect.

Yes, give me access

Frequently Asked Questions


Is this a course?
The toolkit is a collection of curated resources used to run 30X40 Design Workshop (templates, workbooks, documents, SOPs, etc.) I've refined them over the 10+ years I've been in business and made them available to you so you can get started on the right foot with current best practices. You'll download them, customize them to suit your needs and use them to help build + operate your design practice. Although it's not a course, I offer them via my course platform Teachable because it's easy to keep everything current. I've also included a few sample lessons from the Architect + Entrepreneur Course as a bonus to help you get started.
How long do I have access to the tools?
How does lifetime access sound? After purchasing, you have unlimited access to these resources for as long as you like - across any and all devices you own.
I have a design practice already, is this for me?
There's a good chance, but you might also look into the A+E Course I offer. If your practice isn't attracting the kinds of clients you want or you're not earning what you think you're worth, the information here can help make the change you're seeking. If you're seeking in-depth guidance, tutorials and detailed instructions related to your design practice, check out the The Architect + Entrepreneur Course.
I don't have a design business yet, is this for me?
Yes! Planning to start a business is an ideal time to download these assets. Starting out with a proven set of documents and templates will give you a head start and ensure you're creating your business on a solid foundation of industry best practices.
If I purchase the toolkit, can I upgrade to the A+E Course?
Yes. In fact, after you purchase, you'll receive a one-time discounted offer to upgrade right away. If you choose not to upgrade right away, the discount disappears, but you'll still be able to purchase the course at the regular price when you're ready.
How will I receive the assets?
You'll receive immediate access to download all the files upon purchase. Some sections include videos, these can be viewed inside the player window.
How do you handle refunds?
I know you're going to find massive value in these tools and resources, I've built my brand on offering quality resources. Because the toolkit contains dozens of digital goods that you'll have access to immediately upon enrolling, it's my policy to not offer refunds. If you have any questions about what's included or if it's a good fit for you, please reach out to [email protected] before you purchase; I'll gladly answer your questions.
Are the contents of the toolkit US/North America focused?
The startup toolkit is designed to help you build a sustainable creative practice no matter where you live. Because my practice is based in the US, I don’t know specifically how other international practice standards might differ or interface with what's on offer. The section on business structures addresses taxes and takes special care to note potential differences between where I practice in the US and where further localized research will be necessary on your part living outside the US. What I suggest is to review the list of documents in the toolkit and assess how likely each is to include something country-specific. I think once you do this you’ll find it’s quite small.
I'm a...( Student, Landscape Architect, Interior Designer, Engineer, Draftsperson )...is the toolkit right for me?
Ultimately, you’re the best person to judge whether you can adapt the contents of the toolkit to what it is you’re hoping to do. There are Students, Landscape Architects, Interior Designers, Engineers + Draftspeople and allied design trades who have all chosen to purchase and implement these tools in their workflow and businesses. The best place to evaluate whether it's a good fit is to watch the unboxing video above.
Does the Toolkit include all of your templates?
No. Our templates (AutoCAD, Revit, Title Blocks, Residential Outline Specifications, etc.) are each stand-alone products available separately for purchase. To see the full list of everything that's included be sure to check it out above.
What's the difference between the Startup Toolkit + the A+E Course?
The toolkit and the course overlap in a few of the content areas, but each has unique material that the other doesn't include. As you might expect, the A+E course includes significantly more content, trainings, resources + materials than the toolkit. The best place to compare the differences and everything that's included is to look through the curriculum pages and watch the unboxing videos.
Are the videos closed captioned?
Yes, video content can be viewed with or without closed captions in the video player window. As of August 2023, the videos are captioned in English only.
I'm not a licensed professional [architect, interior designer, landscape architect, etc.] would the Startup Toolkit still benefit me?
Yes, the Startup Toolkit is designed to benefit a wide range of design professionals, including those who are not licensed. There are: building designers, interns, students, builders, interior designers, landscape architects/designers and draftspeople who have all found these helpful for their trade. The toolkit is designed to provide invaluable resources and systems that can help you build and manage your design practice effectively.
Are the documents in the toolkit compatible with the Google Drive suite?
Yes! The documents in the toolkit are all compatible with the Google Drive suite of tools, making it easy for you to access and use them.

You can always earn another dollar, but you’ll never earn another minute

These are resources that will allow you to build + operate your design practice, because here’s the thing:

There’s marketing, invoicing, closing deals, clients to meet, contractors asking questions, consultants to coordinate, site visits, phone calls to take and make, e-mails to answer, and letters to write.

These things take time and usually that’s time taken away from the work that led you to become a design professional: design + being creative..

So I’ve designed this toolkit to allow you to take control of your time and build your business following true-and-tried practices.

I hope you’ll give them a try.

Yes, give me access