(~s)
1.
The ~ costs of something such as a new business or new product are the costs of starting to run or produce it. (BUSINESS)
The minimum ~ capital for a Pizza franchise is estimated at $250,000 to $315,000.
ADJ: ADJ n
2.
A ~ company is a small business that has recently been started by someone. (BUSINESS)
Thousands and thousands of ~ firms have poured into the computer market.
ADJ: ADJ n
•
Start-up is also a noun.
For now the only bright spots in the labor market are small businesses and high-tech ~s.
N-COUNT