How to Get Into the Baseball Uniform Business

Perhaps you will sell this youngster another uniform.

As is the case with any business, getting started can be a bit of a challenge. The rewards, however, can be great. Being in the baseball uniform business has an added attraction: you get to make money while spending time with people who share your passion for the game. Once you’ve followed these steps and established yourself, it’s possible that you’ll be an independent businessperson. Before long, you could head out to the ball yard and see players compete in uniforms you provided.

Instructions

1. Research all facets of your business before you get too involved. You will need to find out how much competition there is in your area, possible sites for your uniform business and have a good idea of your expenses and anticipated revenue. If, for example, there are already several similar businesses in your area, you will have to choose between opening your business somewhere else or making your company so unique that customers will absolutely need to buy their uniforms from you.

2. Compose your business plan in order to secure financing. A bank will not give you the start-up capital you need unless you can make it apparent you are on the road to success. The United States Small Business Administration offers business plan templates. The basics, however, are pretty clear. You’ll need sections in which you provide an executive summary, a market analysis, planned inventory, a marketing plan and more.

3. File all of the necessary paperwork. Sure, this isn’t very much fun, but there are state, local and federal laws you’ll need to consider as you begin your business. Entrepreneur Magazine offers sample documents so you’ll know what you’re getting into, but don’t be afraid to cover yourself by consulting a local attorney.

4. Prepare your inventory. If you plan on selling custom uniforms, you will need to hire a person who knows how to sew and embroider. You’ll probably also need to purchase the equipment or contract with a screen printer and a sewing center. Be careful not to order too much of any one style before you know what your new customers will really want to buy. Put out bids to local schools, Little League, Pony League and the like.

5. Market your new business and build relationships with local baseball clubs. Karol Gajda, writing for Zen Habits, advises you to participate in your community and that makes a lot of sense. While the Little League teams in your town may already have a uniform supplier, it never hurts to make sure people know you are around. Sponsor teams from a low-income neighborhood or purchase advertising space on the outfield fence of the local stadium. If you introduce yourself to enough people, they will eventually start talking business.

References

• Entrepreneur Magazine
• Zen Habits

Resources

• Business.gov