As a small business owner I have had the wildest thoughts of wanting to open my own store front. The problem is that capital is not always the easiest to come by. I’ve heard Dave Ramsey recommend that a start up business should at least have $15,000 in initial capital, but the reality is that most businesses quickly go into debt and are unable to accomplish the intended goals.
I’ve had an idea for some time now, and I’d like to throw it out there. Before I share my idea, I want you to really think about what community is all about. I recently watched a documentary on the beginning of the 13 original colonies. One of the intriguing thoughts that I had was that they had no capital when they came to America, and even if they did there was no one that would have valued their money. What was of value was tobacco. The early settlers began to plant tobacco, and were able to sell it back to the mother country. However they still had to provide food and shelter for themselves. I would venture to say that most of us, including myself, probably would not have even stepped on the boat to leave for the new world.
In the 18th and 19th Century, communities often came together for a “Barn Raising”. What actually took place was an opportunity for many people to participate in helping another farmer gain a building that would be the foundation of that family’s farm. Wow we don’t hear of that happening too much these days. If it does happen it’s usually in an Amish or Mennonite community. Over the years thousands of barns went up due to the assistance of the local community. Wouldn’t that be neat to see firsthand in 2010?
Now back to my idea- While I realize that we are often bombarded by giving opportunities to charities, churches and causes, I would like you to still consider taking part in a social activity that is really unheard of. I am looking for 7 friends to sponsor $7 into my business. The only thing I have to offer is the fact that we could see a pretty neat thing happen here. I know you’re thinking, that will only give you $49.00. You’re right, but I don’t want to stop there. I need those 7 friends to find 7 more of their friends to sponsor us for $7. So now you may be thinking “this is just a chain letter gone awry!” My answer is that this is simply an opportunity for people to partake in their community. But wait there’s more, now I need those 7 friends of my 7 friends to find 7 of their friends who would also sponsor us for $7. I need this same process to replicate itself at least a total of 4 times. If that is the minimal that could take place that would give the company an overall investment of just over $16,000.00. But just think what could take place if this idea is used for any future fundraising activities. If this process replicated itself a total of 8 times that would generate over $6.7 million. It’s hard to comprehend, but wouldn’t it be neat to know that you were one of the people to prove out this idea? It all starts with 7 friends investing $7.
I do not desire to build an empire of a company, nor do I desire to get rich quick. I do desire to have a debt free business, and to be able to give back to my community. I’m accountable to those who sponsor. At this time I’m not able to provide you any services or goods for your sponsorship. There are absolutely no strings attached. What you get out of this is simply the opportunity to raise a barn. I will use your funds to the best of my ability so that I can open doors to the community, and in whatever way I can, I will give back when I can. Thank you for reading this and giving me a chance. If you are able to invest, all that I ask in addition is that you find 7 of your friends to also invest. Thank you for your consideration.
Sponsor us for $7.00 NowAny gift is not considered to be tax deductable
My Father-in-Law is a very talented man, and whipped this up to share with the coffee world. He is searching for ideas for his next creation. Email us (contactus@baristadecasa.com) or give us shout on