| Business Idea/Type | Why This Fits the Community | Local Need/Competition | Next Step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Worker-Owned Grocery | Creates food sovereignty, local jobs, supports regional farmers | Limited fresh food access, high prices at chain stores | Survey food shopping patterns |
| Cooperative Home Repair Team | Uses existing trade skills, serves aging housing stock | Long wait times for repairs, rising maintenance costs | Connect with local trades |
| Elder/Child Care Cooperative | Addresses critical care gap, empowers care workers | Limited affordable care options, aging population | Research licensing needs |
| Community Food Hub/Kitchen | Supports food entrepreneurs, enables bulk purchasing | No commercial kitchen access, scattered food programs | Identify potential sites |
| Renewable Energy/Weatherization Coop | Creates green jobs, reduces energy costs | High utility bills, climate vulnerability | Map energy programs |
| Community Reuse/Repair Shop | Reduces waste, teaches skills, affordable goods | Limited repair options, sustainability interest | Study waste streams |
Use this to brainstorm with your core team and community members. Choose ideas based on unmet needs, existing local skills, and startup feasibility.
Talk to residents, collect survey feedback, and look at money flowing out of the community. Your anchor business should keep some of that wealth in.