KLAS-TV Channel 8 News Las VegasJobless Nevadans Seek New Life as Small Business Owners
HENDERSON, Nev. - Many unemployed Nevadans are now choosing to forego job searches and become entrepreneurs instead. An entrepreneur fair in Henderson Wednesday night gave them tips in their transition from worker to boss.
The entrepreneur fair offered free resources to help people start and grow their businesses. Participating organizations included the Henderson Chamber of Commerce, the Nevada Small Business Development Center, and the Nevada Microenterprise Initiative. "Anytime is a good time to go into business, (but) especially now," said Nevada Microenterprise Initiative Operations Manager Anna Siefert. "There's a lot more opportunity created despite the economy."
About a hundred people attended the event. Some are casualties of Nevada's record-high unemployment. Some are seeking a fresh start. Others sought advice on improving their existing business.
Stacey Naimo and her family started their company, DI Jen Products, in August. "We sell candles, jewelry, items for the ladies, items for the gentlemen, home decor, picture frames and vases," Naimo said. "This was the best time to start," Jeanette Naimo said. "Hopefully with the economy improving, our business (will) improve."
25-year-old Zack May is owner of Shaggyz Shine Detailing, a company he started ten months ago. He came to the fair with one goal in mind. "I want to expand, to be able to employ two to three more people full-time," May said.
Ruth Hedges' business, Funding Roadmap, helps these entrepreneurs write their business plans on their computers. "We think that while people are looking on websites and sending out their resumes, they could also be scripting an idea for a business of their own," Hedges said.
Organizers of the event believe, with a little help, today's unemployed workers could become tomorrow's thriving business owners. "Right now with the unemployment the way it is, it's a great opportunity for people to boost their business," Henderson City Councilwoman Gerri Schroeder said. "This is the time to think about it. You control your own destiny," Siefert said.
Henderson Business Resource Center
