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

How to Use This Worksheet

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.

Next Steps After Planning