|
Subject:
Business Startup
|
| Author |
Message
|
gonzobeer
Joined: 02/08/07
Outdoorzy Maniac
Louisville, KY
Posts: 246
|
Posted: 10/23/07 11:27pm |
Reply |
Quote |
Print
|
So. Recent events in my life have got me to thinking either finally move out to Oregon and work for my buddy as a rock guide, or really try to startup the climbing shop that I've been thinking about for years.
Problem is, I really don't know how to acess resourses for a startup, does anyone know of any grants, programs, or good small business loan companies/organizations?
I really don't know where to start, I mean I do, I kinda know what I need to do. However I would like to hear from people that own or have started up business to give me a hand.
I have a rough draft of a business plan, Just need alittle help getting the ball rolling.
Thanks in advance homeys!
-Sam
Licentia Haud Vestigium
|
|
The Other Wade
Joined: 10/12/07
Outdoorzy Explorer
Roswell, GA
Posts: 23
|
|
Posted: 10/24/07 6:56am |
Reply |
Quote |
Print
|
Gonzo, great to hear that you may take the giant leap! Self employment is vastly challenging and rewarding. Regarding financing, looking into an SBA loan to capitalize your new business may be a good way to start:
Intro to SBA Loans
Also, finding a money partner to fund the idea may prove worth it, if you can work out terms that make sense to you both. My only two cents on this is, go with somebody you know and trust. Partnering with someone random can be a recipe for disaster.
Lastly, your physical location for the shop... I've been on commercial real estate since getting out of college, and would be happy to give you some tips on leasing space, the pitfalls, where to find it, how to get free representation, what to look for etc. - just PM me or email wade (at) outdoorsblogger (dot) com.
Lastly, good luck.
OutdoorsBlogger.com || RainmakerWebDesign.com
|
|
Wade
Joined: 07/23/06
Outdoorzy Original
Bowling Green, KY
Posts: 860
|
|
Posted: 10/24/07 8:22am |
Reply |
Quote |
Print
|
Yeah, that is really exciting Gonzo. I think The Other Wade is right on several points. Just be careful if you decide to get money from family. You'd hate to cause friction if the business folded.
But, my only advice is to DO IT. Even if you start really small, part-time, and are self funded. It's alot of fun to follow a dream, even if you're not sure where it's going to take you.k
I'm a lover, not a racer... --Wade
|
|
Emile
Joined: 07/22/06
Outdoorzy Original
Bowling Green, KY
Posts: 185
|
|
Posted: 10/24/07 7:46pm |
Reply |
Quote |
Print
|
Gonzo, do it! I think you need to be careful and think out every decisions especially b/c it is a brick and mortar startup vs a web so the risks are different, but there is a risk in not following a dream. No one wants to work for the man for the rest of their life.
I love Outdoorzy!!!
|
|
gonzobeer
Joined: 02/08/07
Outdoorzy Maniac
Louisville, KY
Posts: 246
|
|
Posted: 10/24/07 9:33pm |
Reply |
Quote |
Print
|
Wade....if I start a shop will you drive up here and buy stuff from me =) And hey, put some outdoorzy merch up innit. Yea buddy. I'll keep you guys posted about the my progress.
-Sammy
Licentia Haud Vestigium
|
|
|
|
Wade
Joined: 07/23/06
Outdoorzy Original
Bowling Green, KY
Posts: 860
|
|
Posted: 10/24/07 9:49pm |
Reply |
Quote |
Print
|
For sure man. You can sell odzy shirts in your shop and we can wholesale em to ya on the el cheapo. And of course I'd buy from ya. I'm not much into the rock scene anymore, but I'm always looking for new toys. 
I'm a lover, not a racer...--Wade
|
|
gonzobeer
Joined: 02/08/07
Outdoorzy Maniac
Louisville, KY
Posts: 246
|
|
Posted: 10/24/07 9:55pm |
Reply |
Quote |
Print
|
Consider me your motivation to get vertical again. And you never know when you'll need a set of aiders ;-)
Licentia Haud Vestigium
|
|
The Other Wade
Joined: 10/12/07
Outdoorzy Explorer
Roswell, GA
Posts: 23
|
|
Posted: 10/25/07 11:52am |
Reply |
Quote |
Print
|
I can't agree more with The FIRST Wade on the family thing. I rep. a lot of startups, and when it doesn't work out things can get ugly. Have you ever thought of starting up an Ebay or Yahoo store front for outdoors gear? Maybe a good way to get your geet wet part time, develop some income, and get a brand going before getting into all the expenses of brick/mortar shops...
OutdoorsBlogger.com || RainmakerWebDesign.com
|
|
gonzobeer
Joined: 02/08/07
Outdoorzy Maniac
Louisville, KY
Posts: 246
|
|
Posted: 10/25/07 12:09pm |
Reply |
Quote |
Print
|
That's not a bad idea, i'm weighing alot of options.
Licentia Haud Vestigium
|
|
Fundyguy25
Joined: 08/30/07
Outdoorzy Explorer
Sussex Corner, NB
Posts: 32
|
|
Posted: 10/25/07 12:43pm |
Reply |
Quote |
Print
|
Hey Gonzo, I find myself in the same situation somewhat. I too have been contemplating a camping goods store for the small town I live in. Market is my biggest worry. But thanks to those that have written on here, it has lit my passion again. I just have to do it. I might need some contacts for gear suppliers Wade? Mainly mid-point price entry, technical clothing, that type of thing. Unfortunately I am just starting to get into internet marketing and businesses, so I need to work at that. Good luck Gonzo.
|
|
