I am interested in starting my own independent NASD brokerage. Where do I start?

I am interested in starting a investment management company in a small town and would like to be able to offer security products. I haven't the slightest idea where to start...

First you would need to determine how you wanted to structure your investment management firm. Separate accounts vs a mutual fund. Then you would have to notice file with your state as an investment advisor. Depending on the level of assets that you can attract, you may need to register with the SEC as well.

Generally investment managers are not independent brokerages because it is pretty much impossible to get a seat on the exchanges. Instead, they use a a clearing broker to place their trades, and do all of the back office and custodial record keeping. National Financial is a common choice. I believe Citi also has fairly inexpensive prime brokerage services if you choose to go the mutual fund route. The NASD has plenty of information on their website.

go get a license.. first..
and the study required will tell you the requirements to move up
from rep. to broker to buying a seat...
try getting on with a brokerage first that will pay for your license first
ps it takes a lot of money , so sell a lot .. move up in the company or borrow a lot if you are poor