Aiding The Young Entrepreneur
Persistence is the key to succeeding as a young entrepreneur, says Christian Prost, owner of the Northriders bike store.
Prost started his business at the King Street Plaza three years ago with help from the Canadian Youth Business Foundation.
“My, what a scary feeling it was,” Prost said, remembering the anxiety of taking a big risk at 26 years old.
“You give up a job and a paycheque to jump into the unknown.”
“You need a huge amount of money starting a business, especially in retail,” he said, adding the $10,000 the CYBF loaned him helped get his store in shape for opening day.
“It was quite beneficial when getting the store up to standard so you can open it up to the general public.”
Prost said banks are of little assistance because they require collateral and CYBF offered a more “personable” service where a committee helps get the business plan ready.
“First off, never give up no matter how hard it seems in the beginning,” he said, explaining how there are low moments to get over.
“Some days, you wonder, ‘Why the hell am I doing this?’” Prost said, adding he’s happy he didn’t pack it in because there are days that make up for it.
He said there’s only one thing to do if you have a business dream.
“If you don’t try, you’ll always regret that decision.”
Photo by Dave Dale.
cassy on August 2nd, 2008 12:22 am
Older man should not measure the ability of the young entrepreneur by their age.They might be smarter than they think.
If you have a dream, follow and believe in your self.
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