Entrepreneur (en·tre·pre·neur) noun: One who organizes, manages, and assumes the risks of a business or enterprise. Merriam-Webster Dictionary
"I'm not sure I knew what an entrepreneur was when I was ten, but I knew that starting little businesses and trying to sell greeting cards or newspapers door-to-door... there's just something very intriguing to me about that." -- Steve Case, Founder of America Online AOL.
The Good Ground Project The mission of The Good Ground Project is to introduce young people to entrepreneurship. This is done by introducing them to the entrepreneurs and leaders of today who can and will speak to them from experience about entrepreneurship. The Partners of the Project share their thoughts and offer advice in The Partner Profiles area. They can also correspond with the members of GGP in the Forum. The Project aims to show young people that entrepreneurship is a real and attractive option that they should consider.
LISTEN TO FOUNDER PETER M. THOMPSON'S INTERVIEW ON WHCR 90.3 FM - On February 6, 2007, Peter was interviewed by Moniifa Maht on the 'ASHE program regarding various topics including the origin of the Project, the Good Ground Partners, and his other related educational work. Click here to hear the interview.
In the Spotlight:
Name:
Timothy "Polo" Greene
Title:
Master Barber & President
Company:
Harlem Masters Barbershop
Location:
New York, NY
What I do:
Professional cutting and styling services
Web Site:
N/A
Nature of Business: Serving the grooming needs of the Harlem community. Providing them with professional cutting and styling services to fit their lifestyle.I became an entrepreneur because I always wanted to be self-sufficient. As a barber I had my own business and built my own clientele. As a barbershop owner of a 13 chair unisex shop (8 barber chairs and 5 beautician chairs) I now have the ability to offer others the opportunity have their own grooming and styling business. Becoming a business person allows you to have control over your own destiny. As a entrepreneur people look up to you, they trust your judgment and your leadership skills...you become a true and trusted force in the community. I also see myself as a "change agent" and have used my position to help give others a second chance. Brothers returning from jail who have obtained their license while incarcerated have worked successfully in my business. Also several of my former barbers and hairstylists have gone on to start barbershop/salons of their own. Seeing me as a businessman gave them the confidence and assurance that they too could be successful.
The most important lesson that I've learned isNEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS! In order to be successful a person must be steadfast and unwavering. You must surround yourself with positive people who are supportive of you and your ideas. Leave no room in your life for negative people with negative thoughts and comments. Don't rush your business decisions; think things through carefully and consider all your options. Build your business by being on time, reliable, dependable and most of all consistant.
I want to encourage you to be extremely focused on your goals. When seeking a business venture choose something that you really enjoy doing. Become knowlegeable about the industry you are going into...education is very important. Be friendly, approachable and considerate of others; this will take you a long way in life and business. Become well-rounded so that you can hold a conversation with anyone. Seek out a business mentor, someone whom you admire and trust. This person will save you time, money and mis-steps. Most importantly, pray for guidance and trust in GOD.
