Real Dictionary

start up
The start-up costs of something such as a new business or new product are the costs of starting to run or produce it.

start up in British English
a starting or starting up
of or for a new business venture
to come or cause to come into being for the first time; originate
to rise up or stand suddenly, as in fright
adjective: of or relating to input, usually financial, made to establish a new project or business
noun: a business enterprise that has been launched recently
noun: a new business

start-up in American English
adjective: of or pertaining to the beginning of a new project or venture, esp. to an investment made to initiate such a project, as in a commercial or industrial enterprise
noun: the act or fact of starting something; a setting in motion