Article by Tori Maidenberg
Development and Communications Intern
Kevin knew he had the skills to start his own heating and air company, but what he had to confront was his lack of business basics. Kevin says that “just because you have a skill does not mean you can run a business. There are so many things that go into having a business, from understanding finances to marketing.” The hardest challenge Kevin faced was pricing, knowing how to get his pricing right so that he could still be fair to his clients while still being able to make a profit. In December 2012, Kevin met PeopleFund at the Intercity Development Center (ICDC) and through the PeopleSpark program. Kevin says that PeopleFund assisted him in numerous ways: in the business plan writing, projections, pricing, social media and marketing, and how to make a pitch. He also received his first business loan through PeopleFund.
What distinguishes Strongtower Heating & Air from other similar business in the area is
Kevin says that his short-term goals this year are to hire a fulltime helper in the summer and to purchase a vehicle. His long-term goals are to have increased commercial contracts and within 5 years to add plumbing services to transform into Strongtower Mechanical Inc.
Kevin’s advice for entrepreneurs wanting to start their own business is “to do your homework.” By homework he means to research start-up cost, demographics, and find out what the clients want. PeopleFund, Kevin says, “means going to the next level with help and has been a great resource to my business.” If you’re looking to start your own business, PeopleFund can help you with every step along the way!
For more information about StrongTower Heating & Air please visit their website.