One of the myths about starting a business is that “all the good ideas are already taken.”

However, the most compelling businesses may simply involve a new and different take on an established type of business, product or service. A little creativity helps sets them apart.

Just when you think there couldn’t possibly be anything new and unique about a jewelry business or a kids’ party business or children’s clothing, you see some fresh twist. That was the case in a recent small business contest I helped judge.

Special congratulations go to the following winners of the HP “What do you have to say?” Small Business Contest:

• Grand prize winner: Jan Thomas, owner, I am enough bracelets, Mission Viejo, California. Thomas started “I am enough bracelets” to promote positive self-esteem among young girls. Her homegrown business sells bracelets with messages such as, “I am enough” or “Unconditionally Loved.”

• First prize winner: Ebony Martin, president of Ride N Zone, Desoto, Texas. Ride N Zone provides all-inclusive private indoor parties for children, promoting physical fitness with kid powered rides and safety awareness on the road.

• Second prize winner: Nicholas Curry, COO of My Little One Inc., Roanoke, Texas. My Little One Inc. is a children’s apparel retail company that provides quality merchandise at affordable prices.

The winners receive HP and/or Logoworks services/products to help them build their brands and further differentiate their businesses in the marketplace, creating competitive advantage.

As an aside, one of the other judges was Lauren Simonds, managing editor of SmallBusinessComputing.com. I met Lauren earlier this year and was very impressed with her knowledge of the small business space. Lauren and I joined Paul Brockbank, VP and General Manager, HP SMB Services to round out the judging panel.

And congratulations to all who entered the contest.

 Email This Post |  Print This Post