I was up late last night reading some amazing business plans. The plans were submitted by future business owners who  are not currently looking for investors or loans. These are student plans submitted as part of the  Hamilton County Entrepreneurship Advancement Center’s High School Education Program.

The program is run in both the spring and fall semesters and typically attracts juniors and seniors, some of who actually hope to launch their business idea some day.  This is the 4th year I have been involved in the competition and it is always a treat. Some of plans are well written and well researched, but aren’t viable businesses. Others contain a great idea, hidden in a poorly written plan.

And every year, there is at least one, which makes me stop and think someday, I am going to say I knew him/her when.  This spring my favorite plan is by a young man who is a skateboard enthusiast.   He is hoping to launch a line of clothing he can sell at skate parks.  While his financial projections are unrealistic ( like those of his adult counterparts) he has clearly identified a distinctive niche market.  He has thought through the elements which will be necessary to pull of the business he has conceived. I know a number of adults who could take lessons from him.  And while wedding planning is not a new concept, one young woman has written such a comprehensive marketing plan, I think I will need to hire her when she graduates.

The oral part of the competition is tomorrow  and I can’t wait see if they are as good selling their ideas in person, as they are on paper. Do you think bankers or VC’s get this excited when the read a really good plan? I hope so! Our economy needs the plans and people who will be excited to seem them succeed

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Interested in learning more about what the EAC is doing for students and new business owners?   Join us for an informal networking and informational event on June 16th