I've been working on the details for over a year now. I have a ton of community support from both residents and businesses. The only thing really working against me is my lack of prior business experience. But I really want to do this and my bank is ready to sign over a check, I just need to get paperwork in place first (such as a business plan, insurance, property documents....). I have had conflicting advice on whether I should acquire the land first, or get the licensing and permits first.
When you find a lot you'd like to purchase, prepare a contract that has multiple 'subject-to' clauses. I'll purchase lot for $x dollars and terms, subject to acquiring [very specific] business licenses, zoning, food, liquor; and subject to [very specific] financing, terms, repayments, interest rate; and subject to acquiring building permits. This way, if something doesn't work out, you're not on the hook to purchase the lot. This is how builders and developers work. Seek an experienced business and real estate related attorney as suggested by Pamela.