How to Become an Eco Entrepreneur

From organic produce vendors to transport consultants, everyone's jumping on the eco-bandwagon. But being an eco-entrepreneur means navigating your ship of state through some potential white-water. You'll need to keep a vigilant eye to the viability of your green biz at all times. Here are some ways to maximize your chances in today's market.

Instructions

1. Identify supply and demand issues. Economists on the news refer to a "turning point" that makes certain ecological initiatives possible. As an example, they cite the quick change in Detroit, from mass producing SUVs to a switch to smaller, more gas-efficient cars. Your ability to recognize these kinds of commercial realities is a big part of your success as an eco-entrepreneur.

2. Cinch up earth goals and customer goals. After your know that your project will fit into the supply and demand curve, find ways to get your goals all flowing in the same direction. Try to avoid eco initiatives that demand sacrifice from your customers. In an entrenched free market system, that just won't work, and it's a major pitfall to well-meaning investors and business owners who are used to just focusing on what's good for the earth. Make your ecological projects something your customers can easily go along with.

3. Cooperate with locals. As a larger investor, or a new kid on the block, your business initiatives are sure to thrive from being linked to comprehensive local projects. If it's food, talk to local farmers and co-ops; if it's transit, communicate with municipal companies. You'll find this will boost your "feasibility index" and get your street credibility in your community.

4. Utilize government initiatives. Local, state or federal government agencies will be looking to support ecological projects as part of our very belated national response to global warming. You can take advantage of that groundswell by keeping an eye out for government initiatives that may go hand in hand with yours.

5. Don't stop the magic. When it comes to pursuing ecologically minded business, there's no resting on your laurels. When a project is operational, it's time to either analyze it for optimization, support it with outreach, or move on to the next thing to diversify your portfolio. Treading water will only get you submerged by the eaves of a choppy economy.