You’ve got a great business idea. Fantastic! You know WHY you’re doing it, WHAT you’re going to offer, and HOW you will go about it.
You’ve figured out the value proposition, the process, and the social media campaign.
You might even have your sales strategy ready and thought about how you’ll fund the first six months.
You’ve got advice from friends, family, acquaintances, your neighbour’s uncle, and anyone else who took the time to listen to your idea.
You’ve (maybe) spoken to your lawyer, accountant, and insurance broker.
You’re ready to go! Or are you?
Starting a business is so much more than a great idea. You’re going to need people to help you. A network of like-minded people who can help connect you with resources, and maybe, who have been where you are now and can mentor and support you through the process.
You’re going to need the WHO.
You might be thinking, “Where do I start? How do I find these people?”. And please don’t say social media or in-messaging on LinkedIn!
There’s no secret sauce, and it really depends on where you are and what you have access to, but here are some ideas that are worth exploring.
Innovation hubs
Most major cities around the world are investing in innovation hubs and communities. These places might not be called ‘Innovation Hub’ with a big, flashing sign, but innovation is their function – challenging the status-quo and helping entrepreneurs and businesses to connect.
Because of COVID, many of us have gone online, and this has been a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, you can connect with many networks worldwide that you might not have had access to before. But, on the other hand, where do you start?
An internet search will come up with the innovation hubs in your area and around the world. You can also check out lists and places that highlight innovative countries (like www.startupblink.com). These are great resources to find out who in that country or city is engaging in innovation and how you can reach out and make a connection.
Government programs
Governments support innovation (to various degrees depending on your location). A search on your local government website could direct you to a Department or Agency that has programs that can help. Many programs can be subject-specific, supporting diversity investments such as female founders or research and development in emerging trends.
My experience tells me that it won’t always be labelled what you think it might be, so it’s worth digging around and contacting them for more information.
Companies that support innovation and start-ups
Many large companies have innovation functions. For example, Microsoft has a Startup Hub and PwC has an innovation team. There are experts in established organisations that love innovation, write about it, talk about it, and help coach start-ups to get their ideas off the ground (much of it for free/or near free). Again, a quick internet search can show you the way. Read their articles, understand what they offer and make a connection.
Schools, universities and colleges
This one seems obvious, but in my experience, it’s an untapped resource. There are many schools, universities and colleges that have innovation or entrepreneurship programs. They host events and lectures – many for free – to connect theory with practice. Get involved and connect with like-minded people who can offer help.
Final thoughts
The idea of a successful business being built around a single heroic person is a fantasy. It’s a story people want to hear about but is rarely ever the case. That’s not how life works. We need people, sometimes many people, to make things happen. Finding these people is critical to the success of your business.
Do you know WHO you need to connect with? Make a list – and the next time someone asks, “How can I help?” consider answering with “I am looking for someone WHO can help me with these three things. Know anyone?”
And you never know, you might be the WHO for someone else.
Good luck!
x Hala
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