Find a space to rent. Check ads on Craigslist.org or in your local newspaper for vacant clubs, restaurants or office spaces. Do some footwork and see if possible locations exist in the trendier or more easily accessible part of town. Consider the scope of the operation. You may want to open a small, intimate club or a large, bustling one that will attract out-of-towners.
Network with local and national talent. This won't be a hard job. You'll most likely have musicians clamoring to play at your jazz club when you open. Decide on a booking and payment policy for bands. If you have no previous experience in this, check books like "This Business of Music" by M. William Krasilovsky.
Consider licenses and permits before you open the jazz club. You'll need a liquor license if you want to serve alcohol and a food-handling license even if you're only serving quick snacks. The zoning ordinances in certain cities may prohibit music or entertainment venues in certain areas. Check with your local authorities.
Furnish your club. Depending on your budget, you can buy chairs, tables and barstools used. Don't skimp on the best bar equipment and booze you can find, however. Your customers can tell the difference.
Know your jazz club audience. Post flyers or ads in parts of town that attract bohemian or creative types. Plastering ads for upcoming shows in suburbia may bring out the occasional curious couple, but stick with the college or artistic crowd to gain the highest number of paying customers. Create an email list for regular patrons.
Invest in the best sound system you can afford. You'll need microphones and stands, a piano and a mixing board. If you decide to feature only acoustic acts, your production costs will be minimal.