Black Business Ideas
Men and women of color face an array of difficulties in today's economy, but that has not stopped them from creating more and more businesses. People of all colors are finding solitude by starting companies such as landscaping, catering and consulting firms. According to The U.S. Department of Commerce's Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA), the number of African-American-owned firms increased by 60.5 percent between 2002 and 2007 and continues to grow.
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Catering
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If you have a love of food and enjoy the rush of being in the kitchen, then starting a catering or personal chef business is perfect for you. Formal training is not required to be a chef. Experience, however, is needed to ensure you can handle the pressure of the food service industry. Catering has virtually no overhead costs, other than equipment, because your client pays for the food you prepare. Although good food speaks for itself, communication and networking are essential to the success of being a caterer.
Consultant
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Individuals with years of experience in a particular business concentration can begin a consultant career. As an independent consultant you can charge for the knowledge you have acquired over the years. You will be required to deal first-hand with people, assessing a company's strengths and weaknesses, then advising the owners or managers on the best solutions available. Making yourself available and conveying to clients why your opinion is valuable are two major business requirements. Depending on your genre, you will want to talk to a lawyer about what legal and insurance matters you need.
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Landscaping
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No matter what part of the country you live in, there is someone with property that needs maintaining. Starting a landscaping company requires you to invest in certain tools of the trade. Which equipment you purchase and which ones you rent, will depend on your client list. You can purchase a reliable lawnmower and go door-to-door finding individuals who are incapable of doing their lawn themselves. Another alternative is soliciting various businesses. Business owners understand the importance of property upkeep; however, most do not have the time or tools to do it. Landscaping is hard work, but it can be a profitable revenue stream.
Freelancer
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Black writers, developers and artists find substantial income by outsourcing their talents. The Internet has made it possible for you to work for clients all over the world from inside your home. Freelancing requires a dependable computer, strong Internet service and the discipline complete professional work within set deadlines without supervision. You communicate with clients via email, fax or phone. As an independent contractor, you decide when you work and how much you charge. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a freelance writer can charge $25 to $100 an hour.
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