So last post I talked about perhaps putting my non-profit passion together with my start-up skills. Well this week I found my new job. It really was created for me. I will be starting a for-profit beverage company with a non-profit affiliation. The non-profit? Not For Sale (www.notforsalecampaign.org). The beverage company? A company that makes and sells ready-to-drink tea made from an herb grown in the rainforest of Peru. Why Peru? Not For Sale has a large project in Peru helping to free sex slaves and then training and counseling them for a better life. Maybe if we start a business based on something of value from the rainforest, we can employ people and pay them fairly so they can make choices about their futures.
This herb is already growing in knowledge and use in the US, and could be uniquely positioned in the beverage market. Also the affinity to Not For Sale will help create the social message we need to drive sales amongst the Millennial age group (you young-uns!). Sorry, I can't reveal what that herb is yet...you will find out soon enough!
I think this is perfect for me...I love the excitement of a start-up, and feel my personality is best suited for the unclear, ever-changing world of start-ups. I don't panic, I usually can find a solution, and I have a great network of contacts. It is also the beverage world, which I know very well, and am experienced in developing both products and brands that consumers enjoy, AND I will be able to start a social enterprise. Three for three. Now I just have to make it work.
If you have anything to offer me as I venture down this path, expect a call or email from me! And for sure stay tuned for more details.
Chow!
