Here is the letter that started my on my Inmates to Entrepreneurs mentorship:
Nov. 9, 2011
To Sageworks,
Thank You for coming to Jobstart. I look forward to seeing you soon. I want to get this business on the ground. You guys gave me hope that it can happen. If there is anything I can do to get it started now or any information for me please send it to me. I only have 61 days left.
Thank you.
H.Y.
Also enclosed was the I2E Questionnaire:
1. Why do you want to start a business? [I want to be my own boss work for myself.]
2. Briefly describe the type of business you intend to start and why you have chosen this business? [Catering business to maybe in 8-10 years. I want my own restaurant.]
3. Describe in detail the product/service you will sell. [Food anything from birthday parties to business meetings.]
4. Why will customers want to buy your product/service? What is unique about your product/service compared to your competitors? [Quality, always willing to satisfy the customer.]
5. How much will you charge for your product/service? [I don't know yet. The price of the food, equipment, labor, and other charges that will acquire the price.]
6. Describe the group of people (market segment) to whom you will sell. What do they have in common? For instance, think about age, gender, education, location, etc. [Any.]
7. How will you reach your customers to motivate them to buy? [Word of mouth, start out little, advertisement.]
8. How do you plan on keeping your customers? [Quality, performance.]
9. How will you get your product or service to your customers? Will they come to you, or will you deliver to them? [Come to them.]
10. List and describe your direct competition. How will you compare with them regarding price, quality, and service? [Price depends on how much I have to put into the product. Quality best food ever. Service on time.]
11. Describe your experience related to this business, if any. [Serve Safe, I took on hand traninng for all areas in Food Service. I have recommendations.]
12. What are your goals for this business? (Sales & Profit for year 1, 2, 3) [To one day have franchises.]
13. What aspects of your personality will help ensure the success of the business? [My attitude towards people]
14. How much cash will it require to start this business? [ ? ]
15. Will you need to hire anyone to help you run this business? [No]
16. What will you name your business? [H____'s Catering.]
17. Are you currently incarcerated? If so, what is your expected release date? [Yes 1-2-12]
