Opening a shop
Despite the tough economy, two businesses launch in Eagle GroveBy LINDSEY MUTCHLER, Messenger staff writer
Fact Box
Starting a business
If you are skilled in a particular service and looking to open your own business, here are some tips from Lisa Shimkat, the regional director for the Small Business Development Center in Fort Dodge.
Do market research and understand your risks.
Create a business plan by putting your ideas onto paper so you can see gaps and potential problems.
Don't expect grants. There are low-interest loans available, but to qualify you'll need valid financial projections based on market research
Don't underestimate startup costs.
If you need more information, a small business startup workshop will be held Jan. 30, 2010 from 9 a.m. until noon at the Iowa State University Extension office in Fort Dodge. Local business owners will talk about marketing, accounting and financing. The workshop is free and no registration is necessary.
Any questions about starting a small business can be directed to the small business center at 576-6242.
EAGLE GROVE - Sometimes opportunities look like hurdles. One just has to be willing to take the leap.
For two new businesses in Eagle Grove, the difficult economy didn't discourage them.
Covenant Computer Solutions
Joe McKinney always repaired computers for himself and friends and family when he wasn't on the road as a trucker.
"Everyone told me the town needed the service, so I figured I'd open up a little store and see how it goes," McKinney said. "I just do repairs, like removing viruses."
The Eagle Grove resident opened his business late last month. McKinney decided to rent a building on the town's main street, 213 W. Broadway St.
An open store front that used to be an old laundromat was transformed into a minimalist office space that is now Covenant Computer Solutions, Inc.
McKinney's "ace of a landlord" installed new floors and painted the walls for the entrepreneur, and a couple from Kanawha created a custom-made sign and wall art for the business.
"I know there are other computer repair shops in Webster City and Fort Dodge, but I thought it would be nice for people to be able to have the service on their own main street," McKinney said.
For those who can't make it to the shop, McKinney makes house calls too.
When asked if he was nervous going into business for himself, he said not at all, even though the venture is financed from his savings.
"Even in a bad economy, I think there are certain things that people want. A couple of those things are their satellite and Internet," McKinney said. "People want entertainment, and I'm here to help them when problems crop up."
As far making a profit, this is no hobby for McKinney, but he's not looking to "squeeze every penny" he can from customers.
"In a small town you have to be conscious of the economy," McKinney said. "I think when your prices are reasonable or maybe a little lower, it generates more business. If I only focused on making money and didn't treat people fairly I wouldn't succeed."
So far, McKinney said the business is lucrative. The doors are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
"I tell my clients, if you're happy, tell your friends; if you're not happy, tell me," McKinney said. "I'm here to help."
RJ's Photography
When the company Regina Jenson worked for left town, the Clarion resident saw it as a sign.
"I'm a firm believer that everything happens for a reason," Jenson said.
So she and husband Robert turned their passion for photography into a business.
"We've done photography work for years on our own out of our home," Jenson said. "After I lost my job, we decided it was time to make our dream come true."
Driving through Eagle Grove one day, the couple noticed an empty building on the Eagle Grove main street and called the city to inquire about renting.
"It met all of our criteria and there's no other photography studio in Eagle," she said. "So we decided to go for it. You never know until you try."
With their own savings, the Jensons opened shop Dec. 1.
"The Community Development Corporation paid for our first month of rent, but other than that everything is out of our savings. No loans or family help," Jenson said. "We're nervous, but really excited to bring our dream to life. We're hoping it takes off."
RJ's does everything - architecture, weddings, events, graduation, pets, babies and family portraits.
"We don't really specialize in anything, but we love doing weddings and family pictures," she said.
The studio is open from 1 to 8 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. All other times can be scheduled by appointment by calling 509-1811.
Contact Lindsey Mutchler at (515) 573-241 or lindsey@messengernews.net
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Anderson
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12-19-09 3:29 PM
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Great - and the State of Iowa can't wait to punish with various taxes, and the feds now with several more close behind. Small businesses need all the luck they can get anywhere, but especially in Iowa.
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FatDogFan
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12-19-09 9:23 AM
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Please patronize their businesses, if you do not, they will close and you will have fewer options.
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