Is it possible to start a business fresh out of college with no current business partners?

Question

How do I meet potential business partners? I know this can very with the type of business to be started, but I'm keeping it vague for now on purpose.

Answer 1

Of course it is possible. I would not suggest family members for partners. It can get real messy and some families do not survive it. Someone you graduated college with is a good place to start. Do you really need a partner? Depending on the type of business you could go it alone. Also, get a good CPA. They can help you get started and most will know of potential investors. They should be able to come up with silent partners and active partners. If you can be more specific on the type of business, I could be less generic in my answer.

Good Luck!

Answer 2

First you need a good business idea and a firm plan to show to others. I would advise getting as much help in this department as possible. The more advice to take to heart early on (except from the nay sayers) the better. This is because you want to be open to immediate improvements to your vision and additions that you may not have previously thought of.

Secondly make sure to have an updated and profession looking resume. This way you can displays your skills and abilities in any situation. The more current your resume and skills are kept current and you are always looking for new experiences to add to your resume. This way you say that you are will to try anything that comes your way.

Thirdly, try every job or volunteer experience out there and see what works for and challenges you the most. When you find that thing see if you can apply the skills and abilities you already have to it to make it your own. Then you look for advancement opportunities in that job. Maybe you'll be like me and start a composite career and find ways to apply all the skills and abilities you learn into a business idea that truly fits your lifestyle and dreams.

Within steps two and three you'll come across people who will inspire and challenge you. Take their lead for as long as they'll let you and learn what you can. See what they are doing out side of work and if it might work for you. Don't be like me and let your circumstances be an excuse to deny yourself an opportunity at financial independance and true happiness.

Those people who continue to inspire you long after you have stopped working with them will most likely be the best place to start looking at making business partners or at least investors out of.

Answer 3

See if there are any existing business or community development organizations in your area. Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Development Organizations, things along those lines. If meetings are open, attend several and start building contacts.

Attend city and/or county meetings in which business matters are being dealt with. You can also see if you can get on mailing lists or check web-sites for those organizations to check agendas for relevant items. Depending on your concept, gaining contacts in local councils can be advantageous.

Connect with local bankers, insurance people and other professionals to test the waters on your business concept. You will want to start building a network of 'advisers' in specialized areas anyway and this is a good way to do it.

Be sure your idea is as protected as it can be via copyright & trademark laws if those apply.

Did you make any useful connections in college that might apply? Does your current work (if any) offer you avenues of contact that might be useful?

If the business is industry specific, have you considered joining an industry group or organization to gain additional insight and contacts (some have buying groups or associations)?

Have you done a business plan on your concept to determine if it is viable? This will give you additional material to show, should a partner show up and you will be able to 'talk' detail much better with facts and numbers to back up your concept.

That's everything off the top of my head. Good Luck!

Answer 4

If you are still involved in college, I would join a business club that has recruiters come in. Many of them will wine and dine you, this could be a chance to present your idea to them. Just let people know what you are doing. Present yourself with confidence. Depending on the business, you may not need partners who are loaded with money. You can often get a Small Business Loan for little money down.

Answer 5

If you have the money, Its always best to ask an accountant or a financial advisor, usually they can get you partners or investors.

Answer 6

Hello, you're on Yahoo! Answers. Ask around the site,. PM (private mail) people. Go out into the world???

Answer 7

Yes it is possible. Take into consideration your strengths and expertise, your desires, and how much money you have or can realistically get.