Collect Natural Supplies to Sell for Craft Use

SAE:

Collect/market natural supplies to sell to craft stores

Description:

There is a abundance of free natural supplies such as pine cones, flowers, fruits, nuts, etc. that are available to be gathered free for those industrious enough in rural areas. Many students are fortunate enough to own or have a relative that owns property that would be suitable for this ground floor business. It is very important to have written permission to enter another person’s property for this purpose.

Before the gathering process begins, a marketing plan should be developed. There are may small craft stores and other businesses that sell crafts. A written contract should be obtained from these businesses stating what they will buy, at what price and when. It is always best to have agreements in writing.

If the business becomes successful enough, others can be hired to supply the business with the natural products. They can then be resold at a profit.

Factors To Consider	Ranking: 1 = lowest 10 = highest
Time required	5
Investment	1
Equipment needed	1
Skills required	3
Facilities required	1
Land required	10
Labor Intensity	8
Potential for income	5
Transportation required	8
Expansion possibilities	8
Expertise needed	4
Advertising needed	5
Susceptible to disease	1
Susceptible to insects	1
Suitable for residential areas	3
	Other (specify)
Length of production cycle	Flexible
Regional	Statewide
When to start project	Anytime

Notes:

This is a very labor intensive project. Students should understand that although equipment investment is small, there is no substitute for hard work. This would be a good project for several students to undertake as a team. Some transportation would be required to get the product to the markets. Personal relations skills would be very important in this project.