When I moved from scientist into the start-up business world I spent some time managing the Queensland Government Ideas2Market workshops. The series of workshops were aimed at novice inventors or “backyard” entrepreneurs introducing them to new skills in starting up a business and selling their ideas. We covered sessions on feasibility, business planning, intellectual property, market research and entry strategies for start-ups, accessing funding, government grants and commercialisation. I met many wild and wonderful people wanting to make it big with their ideas and I confess I did become a bit sceptical by the magnitude of money and time it takes to take an idea to market especially in the science and technology industry. However one market that I failed to research five years ago was the exploding number of mummy entrepreneurs or mumpreneurs. And wow am I now very impressed!
So now I am a mum and still work in commercialisation and only now am I realising the huge market of mummy home businesses through social networking, online stores like Etsy and the complementary blogs that feed into it all – everyone self promoting, supporting each other, great attitudes and beautiful products to buy.
One mum who I plan to interview for this Blog is close to home. My Aunt Kathy owner and designer of My Island Baby.
Originally starting out with an ebay store, and the Sydney markets, her website was recently launched to showcase her current designs of babies and children wear. The designer clothes are created with a pacific island influence. You will find yourself imagining that you are floating in a tropical paradise on a white sandy beach. Pieces are handpicked that reflect good design backed by quality and functionality.
First time ever launched in Brisbane, come and visit us at the Mathilda Markets this Saturday. Entry is free at Brisbane Racecourse at Eagle Farm. My two girls will be modelling My Island Baby’s latest range and I will be there at the stall to learn firsthand what it is like to be a mummy entrepreneur.
I think I will start interviewing Mummy Entrepreneurs as a regular segment on my blog. What do you think?
Now if only I could come up with my new Idea.
These workshops sound great! would like to know more about them!
Hi Kelly from the #31DBBB saw your post on the forums and I am checking out your blog!
Yes I am still trying to work out what my niche is amongst the numerous mummy bloggers and I think I might have found it with the mumprenerus. If you want to know more about the Ideas2Market workshops have a look at their website. I used to work for the Australian Institute for Commercialisation and they hold regular events.
Take care,