
The seed, a tiny piece of what looks like nothing, but packed with all the vision and potential to make millions, even billions more throughout its life cycle of seed to plant to fruit to seed again. A business idea is like that. Tons of potential packed in a relatively obscure tiny package.
The soil is next. But you need the right ingredients. A bit of dirt, a bit of humus (organic matter) and a bit of air from larger inorganic matter, to allow the roots to breath and grow. In business, it's about location, location, location, and the right mix of room to grow. The farmers' market, in this case, is at the center of a beautiful and historic small down town. The building is ample for tenants to grow. The project is compact enough to really be something.
Water. Without water, the seed will not germinate. Without consistent watering, the seed may germinate and die. In a start up business, this can be likened to resources, whether money or simple stamina.
Sun. Plants need sun to create and process sugars that feed the fruit they are expected to produce. I suppose in business this could be analogous to healthy doses of encouragement. I am happy to say that we have that so far! We've had a tremendous amount of support already, but more on that in the next paragraph.
Another essential thing that plants need, as well as healthy businesses, are Pollinators. Pollinators are attracted to what they like. Our market will thrive on providing what the community likes, wants and needs. The website, which was up before the Facebook page, is averaging just shy of 150 views per day, with the high being 269 views on Monday! Not bad for being online since Friday. This tells us something wonderful - there is an interest. The emails and Facebook posts so far are from future visitors to the Market. (Retailers and Vendors take note! There is a need.) We will continue to monitor and update this, as well as put up some polls eventually. We are here to listen. Pollinators pass the word! So be a pollinator today, and pass the word.
Lastly, but most importantly, a garden or farm needs PLANTS! (Duh.) That's right, we need vendors and retailers. We are not asking for a commitment right now, but we are asking to know if there's an interest. If you are someone with produce or goods to sell, and want a permanent space to do that, go to the Lease Opportunities Pages and fill out a contact form. Let us know what you have to sell, whether you are interested in an outdoor space or permanent inside space. There is no commitment on your part, and we will not lease any specifics about who the vendors are until there is a signed contract. (Prices and terms of both indoor and outdoor spaces should be available in the next two weeks.) We only have 30 days from the day before yesterday to determine how much interest there actually is, which determines the overall feasibility of this project. We are confident that we can get the work done on the building quickly, but we need to know if we are building something people want. If you have any questions, just fill out the contact form and ask away!
PT Barnum of "The Greatest Show on Earth" once remarked, "Without promotion, something terrible happens ... NOTHING!" Let's make this happen together!
Stay cool! And check back tomorrow.