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My friend and I want to start our own business, and we are seriously debating this at a young age. 15 to be exact.

by beggers1234, Window Shopper

  • Created: December 5, 2012, 6:20 pm
  • Updated: December 5, 2012, 6:21 pm
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3 comments
My friend and I are in a Civics and Economics class together and we have just finished on the topic of creating a business. So I had the bright idea that my friend, Jake, and I would want to start our own business. We would like to start some type of coffee shop, almost like a Starbucks, but we don't want to sort of "base" our store off of Starbucks. The difference is that our shop would not be a place to just stop, get your dishes, and leave. We want people to have a good time conversing with friends there. Yes, Starbucks does allow you to sit and have a good time, but ours will consist of a better time. We will have televisions, free wifi, board games, a lounge space, and other stuff along those lines. This will be a place where kids or teens can go without being a nuisance to the adults, and the adults can go without being a nuisance to the kids or teens. Neither I not my friend know where to start. Any help would be gracious and so helpful. Thank you, Braxton.
Tags: Discuss Popular Topics, Starting & Registering a Business
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BizResearcher | Window Shopper | 12/11/2012 - 11:37 am

Congratulations on your desire to start a business. The first thing you will
need to do is create a well researched business plan. Any business that
involves the sale of food and/or beverage to the public is highly regulated.
Plus, the startup costs can be high. Your best bet may be to purchase an
existing coffee shop and remodel it rather than start from the ground up.

Because you are both under 18, you will not be able to sign contracts.
Therefore, you will need parents or another adult as a partner. You may want
to visit with a counselor at a small business development center. Their
services are free and the counselor can guide you through the process.

Mario Romualdo | Window Shopper | 12/11/2012 - 10:21 am

First, I would applaud you for wanting to start a business at a young age. I
know a "kid" who after visiting a zoo started a business by purchasing hens
and selling eggs. Then he started a "poster selling" business and today is a
millionaire, so age is not a factor but your yearning to succeed. The only
thing I would caution you on is the people lounging around your store idea.
It's like going to the store and reading the magazines. The magazine doesn't
sell, therefore make you no money. Keep in mind that the purpose of a
business is to make money so you can support yourself and your family. This
is why some comic book shops have game playing areas and charge for the time.

JGabriel | Community Moderator | 12/6/2012 - 11:13 am

Hi Braxton, In case you haven't already, check out some of our resources for starting a business. You'll find a guide to help you determine if you're ready, details about writing a business plan, and preparing business finances. Good luck!