#LocalInitiatives

[perspectiveunbound]

Harnessing Community Engagement for Economic Transformation

The Power of Community Engagement in Shaping Economic Futures Hello, dear followers! Today, I want to discuss the significant role that community engagement plays in shaping our economic futures, particularly in the context of Scotland’s vibrant local economies. As we navigate through complex social and economic landscapes, fostering strong community ties is essential for sustainable development and collective prosperity. Community engagement refers to the process of involving individuals and groups in decision-making and action that affects their lives. When communities come together, they bring diverse perspectives and ideas that can lead to innovative solutions for local economic challenges. By working collaboratively, community members can identify their unique strengths and resources, which can be leveraged to drive growth and improve quality of life. In Scotland, various grassroots initiatives exemplify the power of community engagement. From local cooperatives to community-led development projects, these initiatives not only create jobs but also empower individuals to take ownership of their economic environment. By prioritising local needs and values, community-driven efforts contribute to a more resilient and inclusive economy. Moreover, engaging communities in economic discussions fosters a sense of belonging and accountability. When people feel heard and valued, they are more likely to invest their time and resources into initiatives that benefit everyone. This participation can lead to stronger social bonds and a shared commitment to the community's well-being, ultimately enhancing the economic fabric of the area. However, successfully engaging communities requires intentionality and resources. It is crucial for local leaders and policymakers to create avenues for participation and ensure that all voices are heard, especially those from underrepresented groups. Providing platforms for dialogue, such as town hall meetings and workshops, can help facilitate this engagement and build trust among community members. As we dive into the discussion on the impact of community engagement on economic futures, I invite you to share your experiences. How has community involvement shaped the economy in your area or impacted your life? Your insights are invaluable as we explore the connections between community engagement and economic prosperity. Please share your thoughts in the comments below! Stay engaged and continue to champion the power of community! Warm regards, Alastair Majury *Perspectives Unbound* --- *Follow Alastair Majury for further discussions on community engagement, economic growth, and the principles that bind us together for a better future.*

[ebonydirectory1]

What Is Ebony Directory?

Discovering EbonyDirectory.com: Your Premier Online Community Resource

In today's digital age, online directories have become indispensable tools for communities worldwide. Among these platforms, EbonyDirectory.com stands out as a beacon of connectivity, catering specifically to the Black community. In this article, we'll explore what EbonyDirectory.com is and how it can benefit you.

A Home for the Black Community

EbonyDirectory.com is not just another online directory; it's a vibrant virtual hub designed to empower and unite the Black community. It serves as a comprehensive resource where individuals can connect, discover, and support Black-owned businesses and organizations.

The Essence of EbonyDirectory.com

At its core, EbonyDirectory.com is a multifaceted platform that offers a range of services and features aimed at promoting economic growth, community engagement, and cultural enrichment. 1. Business Directory One of the cornerstone features of EbonyDirectory.com is its extensive business directory. Here, users can explore a rich tapestry of Black-owned businesses spanning various industries. Whether you're seeking a local restaurant, a fashion boutique, or professional services, EbonyDirectory.com provides a platform for these businesses to shine. 2. Community Events Stay informed about upcoming events, workshops, and gatherings within the Black community through EbonyDirectory.com. From cultural festivals to networking seminars, this platform keeps you updated on opportunities to connect and celebrate your heritage. 3. Educational Resources Education is paramount, and EbonyDirectory.com recognizes this. Users can access a plethora of educational resources, including articles, videos, and courses, covering topics relevant to the Black community. From history and culture to personal finance and entrepreneurship, knowledge is power. 4. Job Opportunities Empowering economic growth within the Black community is a primary goal of EbonyDirectory.com. The platform offers a dedicated section for job postings and career opportunities, connecting job seekers with employers who value diversity and inclusion. 5. Networking and Social Community EbonyDirectory.com fosters meaningful connections through its networking and social community features. Users can create profiles, connect with like-minded individuals, and engage in discussions that matter to them. 6. Support for Black-Owned Businesses By utilizing EbonyDirectory.com, you actively contribute to the growth of Black-owned businesses. The platform encourages consumers to choose Black-owned products and services, thus stimulating economic empowerment within the community.

Why Choose EbonyDirectory.com?

With countless online directories available, EbonyDirectory.com distinguishes itself as the premier choice for individuals looking to engage with and support the Black community. Here are a few reasons why: 1. Focused on Diversity and Inclusion EbonyDirectory.com places diversity and inclusion at the forefront. It champions the Black community while also welcoming individuals from all backgrounds who wish to engage, learn, and support. 2. Empowering Black-Owned Businesses By promoting Black-owned businesses, EbonyDirectory.com contributes to economic growth and prosperity within the community. It enables consumers to make informed choices that align with their values. 3. Educational and Networking Opportunities EbonyDirectory.com goes beyond being a business directory. It offers a wealth of educational resources and networking opportunities to help individuals grow personally and professionally. 4. Community-Centric Approach At the heart of EbonyDirectory.com is a commitment to building a stronger, more connected Black community. It fosters a sense of belonging, understanding, and unity.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, EbonyDirectory.com is more than just an online directory; it's a dynamic, community-driven platform that empowers and connects Black individuals and businesses. By providing essential resources, fostering connections, and promoting economic growth, EbonyDirectory.com plays a pivotal role in strengthening the Black community. Whether you're seeking services, information, or an opportunity to connect with others who share your interests, this platform offers a valuable and enriching experience. Visit EbonyDirectory.com today and become a part of this vibrant and supportive online community. Read the full article

[aanews69]

Empowering Haiti: A Local Approach Empowering Haiti: A Local Approach #community #Haiti #empowerment #localinitiatives #ownership #agency #rebuilding #Haitianled Watch Podcast: https://youtu.be/4MzumtIcqvo Subscribe👇: https://sub.dnpl.us/AANEWS/ - Want some Great Buys check out our List: https://viralbuys.vista.page/

[tummanoj9]

How Toronto Residents Fight for Affordable Housing Solutions by Manoj Atri, REALTOR® Join us as we explore how Toronto residents can stay informed and engaged in housing policy discussions. Discover the importance of advocating for affordable housing and participating in local initiatives to shape a better community for everyone. Your voice matters—let's make it heard! 🛁From $550 Bathroom Rental to A 10-Foot-Wide Dilemma 🏘️ Navigating Toronto's Housing Market in 2024 🌆 https://youtu.be/jnD4AMe6arg 👉 Subscribe Now for more Tips and Insights: https://www.youtube.com/@ManojAtri9?sub_confirmation=1 ✨ Help me reach 1000 Subscribers! 🎉🙌📈 🌆 Hot News Daily: Toronto Real Estate Digest! 📈 Monday 4th Nov 2024 Newsletter: Review ALL Podcast Articles Here: https://bit.ly/40wAWq8 ▶ Visit the following website links for HOT New TORONTO REAL ESTATE for Sale Listings → https://bit.ly/3zE97S3 ▶ Manoj Atri, REALTOR® with Architectural Experience Re/Max Hallmark Realty Ltd., Brokerage 401 – 685 Sheppard Ave E, Toronto ON M2K 1B6 Office: [416] 494-7653 | Cell: [416] 275-2089 Fax: [416] 494-0016 | Email: Manoj@ManojAtri.com #TorontoHousing #StayInformed #CommunityEngagement #AffordableHousing #HousingPolicy #InformedCitizens #AdvocacyInAction #LocalInitiatives #UrbanLiving #CivicParticipation via YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lFQPsByA84

[scalemylife-blog]

Today's #ThankYouThursday goes out to the amazing Sarah Sims of @simsjewelryco. Sarah is very passionate about #community and has invested so much of herself and her business into supporting #localinitiatives. She is an #InspiringEntrepreneur, strong #CommunityLeader, and incredible #Mother. Thank you for the support Sarah and Sims Jewellery Co, our newest sponsor from right here in #KelownaBC. #SponsorShoutout #CaringCompany #MillionDollarBus #ChangeMakers #Grateful #ThankYou #Jewlery #HandCrafted #MakeADifference (at Blue Ginger)

[theintriguedblogger-blog]

Support local initiatives and campaigns! Follow Houston Latina Bloggers for all local happenings. ❤️❤️❤️ Repost: @houstonlatinabloggers "HLB supports local and national initiatives! Like the #abrochateporamor campaign with @ford !! Today local member and Police Officer @solcreativemedia shared with students at Love elementary the importance of buckling up while in your car! Please remember to fasten your seat belts and remain safe on Houston and Texas roads!! • • • • • • • • #houstonlatinabloggers #houstonlatinas #safety #FordLatino #besafe #houstonlife #houstonpolicedepartment #houstonpolice #supportlocal #localinitiatives #houstonstreets #HISD #houstonindependentschooldistrict #houstonkids #houstonschools #houstonparents #houston #htx #buckleup" (via #InstaRepost @AppsKottage) (at Love Elementary School)

[asagriaqua]

5 Reasons Your City Needs a Vertical Farm

Perhaps you've seen the reports about food deserts and swarmed food drives; a large number of vehicles in lines for a really long time to gather nourishment for the week. Or on the other hand the reports about inventory network disappointments; deficiencies on supermarket racks or cafés as wendy Chipotle's, and Chick-fil-A running out of lettuce. And afterward, there are the food reviews brought about by defilement; onions this mid-year and romaine this fall. Isn't it time we took care of these major issues influencing the wellbeing and health of our networks? Enter the idea of the upward ranch. This agrarian strategy offers answers for these issues and the sky is the limit from there. For Vertical Farming Companies In UAE visit this link. 

What is Vertical Farming?

The most straightforward method for depicting vertical cultivating is that it's a technique for developing plants stacked one on top of another, rather than along the ground in columns. Yet, what does that resemble? Also, how can it function? What's more for what reason is upward cultivating an answer for food uncertainty and food production network breakdowns?

There are a few unique techniques for developing, yet they're practically totally done inside. In a nursery or development room, plants are developed on towers or in plates stacked on racks. Each plant is given the right circumstances for ideal development, and on the grounds that this is completely overseen inside, environment and seasons are done limiting elements.

1. Vertical Farming is Local

In metropolitan conditions, it's intriguing to have really nearby agribusiness and farmland. Most conventional homesteads require space that essentially can't be found in thickly stuffed urban communities. Productive business ranches, even the more modest ones, will quite often spread north of many sections of land.

A business vertical cultivating activity can be worked in as little as a section of land and a half. That implies you can fit a few of these nurseries in the space ordinarily involved by the normal enormous box store. Not just that, since they're indoor spaces, vertical ranches can be underlying structures, on roofs, and other presently unused spaces.

This is only one explanation vertical homesteads are a great answer for the issue of food deserts. Urban communities without space for conventional homesteads can in any case press in a lot of vertical ranches to take care of the populace, supply eateries, and even feed underserved families and people. Looking for Vertical Farming in Dubai visit this link for more details.

2. Vertical Farming is Controlled

It seems like at regular intervals there's another food review because of defilement. We at present have one more romaine lettuce review connected with e.coli. That is notwithstanding 2020's reviews of melons, peaches, onions, citrus organic products, basil, mushrooms, and different other food items, both new and ready. It's obvious to anybody focusing that our food supply is hazardously powerless against defilement.

Since vertical cultivating is for the most part overseen in controlled conditions, it presents far fewer open doors for foreign substances to be presented. Truth be told, a few nurseries are so controlled they add up to lab conditions. While coordinated bug the board is as yet really important in indoor homesteads, in general, how much irritations and toxins is altogether lower. No dirt or air tainting from contamination or overflow to stress over, and a developing cycle that is checked and painstakingly made due. Also checkout Vertical Turmeric Farming in Dubai  by AS Agri Aqua.

3. Vertical Farming is Year-Round

On a customary homestead, you have periods of planting and periods of reap. In certain environments, you could possibly get in two collects each year, per crop, however, most yields are occasional. This implies approaching the delightful organic products as a whole and vegetables we love all year, most urban communities resort to imports from unfamiliar ranches. Tragically, such training prompts expanded contamination and pollution and hazard of decay from transport, and diminished sustenance as new produce ages.

Vertical homesteads, then again, can establish their own indoor environments. Temperature, UV openness, stickiness, and different circumstances can be generally painstakingly controlled. This actually intends that in a snowstorm outside, you can be developing new spinach or strawberries inside. It considers occasional produce to be gathered all year, with 11-13 collected each year for some harvests. Looking for Best Vertical Turmeric Farming in UAE visit this link.

4. Vertical Farming Promotes Health

Metropolitan settings offer many accommodations. The majority of these are positive. Occupants can walk or take public transportation to get where they need to go, rather than consuming petroleum derivatives to drive all over. They can get to a wide range of labor and products that may not be accessible in underserved metropolitan or rustic regions.

Comfort food sources or cheap food have solid traction in our metropolitan surroundings. Indeed, in some underserved regions, it is undeniably more affordable and more helpful to eat low-quality food for each feast than to prepare nutritious food at home. With the execution of metropolitan agribusiness as upward homesteads, new, nutritious food opens up to the local area, at reasonable costs. This permits families to put together a solid plate of mixed greens or pan-fried food as opposed to going through a drive-through. It's an extraordinary method for combatting heftiness and related medical issues like coronary illness or diabetes. Furthermore, it can prompt a generally better populace.

5. Vertical Farming Creates Jobs

Customary homesteads frequently utilize part-timers who are paid insignificantly, offered no advantages, and afterward unloaded when the work is finished the season. Vertical ranches, paradoxically, give practical work all year. Their representatives can make just enough to live off of, take an interest in work that is significant to the local area, and frequently get full advantages too. Rather than regarding our fundamental food laborers as expendable, vertical cultivating makes vocations and supports financial development all year.

Turn into a Vertical Farming City

All in all, does your city require vertical cultivating? We think the better inquiry is the number of vertical ranches is required and where would it be advisable for them they be found. Need to investigate the upward cultivating business further? Contact Eden Green Technology and figure out how we can assist with bringing good food, reasonable positions, and safe produce to your area.

[johnmichaelphillips]

localin’ (at Lorraine's Shaved Ice) https://www.instagram.com/p/BvuK12OHqdt6sFir_11cn6JBZKQSyQ7JZMcKLA0/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=13m6zengmh9tv

[fischercouk]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fischer Co South Liverpool Garden Maintenance Company (@fischer_co)

Work alongside our gardeners on charity projects in Aigburth Liverpool. Want to help out and get involved? We need voluntary help from people willing to work on basic projects to include fence or shed painting, cleaning driveways and footpaths, clearing and tidying gardens and outside areas. We also need help with basic gardening jobs and litter picking projects. These days of action are ideal for businesses, local community groups, schools and colleges as team building days which in turn build and connect communities. Register and attend one of our charity projects and meet new people or gain experience by working alongside one of our experienced gardeners. Contact us to get involved with our volunteer charity projects around Aigburth Liverpool. Fischerco Charity Foundation - Together we grow stronger 🌼 Find us on Facebook Fischerco Charity Foundation #charity #community #wellness #keepfit #localinitiative #communityservice #localcomunity #mentalwellbeing #makefriends #learnsomethingnew #garden #cominityspitirt #fischercogroup #aigburth #church #localbusiness #localpeople #networking (at Aigburth, Liverpool, United Kingdom) https://www.instagram.com/p/B8o381xn-JF/?igshid=3qnck9rb4bek

[imaginenationbrewing-blog]

Our busy Wednesday is here again. Farmers Market by @blueeyeddogfarm, ceviche & cubanos by @ninjamikesmt, Imagine Jam Society hosted by @geoffptaylor, Civic Work Party by @missoularises, and Indivisible Montana. Let's party and change the world! #localbeer #localmusic #localfood #localinitiative #socialchange #beyondbeer (at Imagine Nation Brewing)

[topicprinter]

Hi Guys,I've been designing pitch presentations all my (professional) life and have cringed so many times watching shark tank.Most pitches there flat out stink with people falling into two categories:Not enough informationWay too much informationThat's a shame because making a pitch is not that hard. You just need to know the formula. And that formula is well known, because:It is the format recommended by the legendary venture capital firm Sequoia Capital.So today, I'm going to use that format and re-design a famous Airbnb pitch.I'm goinggoing to improve the original pitch (at least I like to think so...) in every way, based on the Sequioa guidelines.And in other good news, the deck is only 10 slides long (+ one extra slide)...So, let’s dive in!Note: If you want to read the article with (much) better formatting you can also find it here: Anatomy of a Perfect Startup Pitch Deck – 11 Critical PagesBefore we begin: Each section is formatted the same way.Start with the Airbnb slide (if they have one)Give my comments and detail, what should be in it (based on Sequoia guidelines)Redesign the slideSum up, what should be in the slideSlide #1: What is the purpose and mission of the company?On the first page of your slide deck, you should simply write the mission of your company in a single sentence.To us, this concept can be quite high-flying so let’s look at some company purpose examples from their early investor presentations:Facebook: “Making the world more open and connected”, (which was changed to “Give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together” in 2017)Airbnb: “The mission is to live in this world where one day you can feel like you're home anywhere and not in a home, but truly home, where you belong”YouTube: “To become the primary outlet of user-generated video content on the Internet, and to allow anyone to upload, share, and browse this content."As such, the first slide is quite simple, we have just a headline and a purpose statement. However, it is very important and showing your passion for the product or service you. After all, if you can’t be passionate about it how are you going to convince others it’s so great?https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Startup-pitch-deck-slide-2.jpgSlide #2: The problem you are trying to solve or the “nod your head” phaseNext up, you are going to describe the problem your product is trying to solve. We have also coined this “The Head-Nod Phase” because if your potential investors aren’t nodding their heads at this point… well, chances are they’ll not invest in you.On the slide, you should describe the problem in a simple way investors can easily understand and here are some key pointers to have in mind:Is at a must-solve problem or a nice-to solve problem? In short, how painful is this for customers?How do customers and users solve the problem today? Some older technology or manually?What are the issues with the current solutions that enables you to capture this market?Is it an obvious problem? If, not then what is your proof that the problem exists?Now, that doesn’t sound so hard so let’s look at what Airbnb did:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Airbnb-pitch-slide-2.jpgPrice is an important concern for customers booking travel onlineHotels leave you disconnected from the city and its cultureNo easy way exists to book a room with a local or become a hostNow, you’ll likely be nodding your head: Before Airbnb, this was an extremely common problem that most if not all people had experienced when traveling.Also, notice that this opens several reasons why you should use Airbnb:The first reason is fully based on price, i.e. use Airbnb and save money: Speaks to the budget-oriented buyerDisconnect from the culture of the city. This speaks more to the culturally oriented and nomad type of customer, that usually stay longer at a place and engages with the localsHaving the latter angle ensured Airbnb got a lot of love from digital nomads and it became cool to use it – if they only had the budget angle, this probably wouldn’t have happened.Now, this is one thing Airbnb postponed until later in their slide deck.In line with Sequoia, we recommend also outlining how the customer addresses the issue today. Airbnb waited until later in their presentation. They didn’t do that directly, instead, they implicitly stated that people were using CouchSurfing.com and Craigslist to offer temporary housing.Here’s what we would have done.Today people are forced into one of two solutions for user-to-user housing:Craigslist: Serves as local classifieds for temporary housing à lacks validation for both buyer and sellerCouchsurfing.com: Community based on sharing principles with no economic incentive to rent out.And here’s the final slide we would have put together for Airbnb:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Startup-pitch-deck-slide-3.jpgNote that this slide addresses all our bullets from the beginning:Level of pain: It is a very painful problem for both users and customersHow’s the problem solved today? The problem is solved today with older technologyWhat are the issues with current technology? Highlights several issues with the current technologyIs it an obvious problem? Yes, as people are already solving it through other avenuesTo sum up, slide #2 should address the following:Describe the pain of the customer (or the customer’s customer)Outline how the customer addresses the issue todaySlide #3: The solution you offer (or the let’s get excited slide!)By this time, you should already have the attention of your audience – now it’s time to get them excited.To do that, you need to blow them away with the solution you offer to the particular problem from slide #2.Here’s how Airbnb did it:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Airbnb-pitch-slide-3.jpgWhat do you think of the slide? Before you make up your mind here is our take:It’s a bit underwhelmingWe get the idea, but we’re not particularly excited by itSo, what would make it better?Well, for starters let’s look at the Sequoia guidelines again. For the solution slide they are:Demonstrate your company’s value proposition to make the customer’s life betterShow where your product physically sitsProvide use casesAs you can see, Airbnb only did the first and that’s why it becomes underwhelming.Now, in our example, we would naturally include the two others on the slide as well and here’s the solution slide we would have made for Airbnb.https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Startup-pitch-deck-slide-4.jpgAt least we’re excited by the idea now and it just shows how vital the information on where the company sits and especially the use cases are important. In our mind, a solution is good, but providing case examples is even better.Summing up slide 3, here’s what it should contain:Demonstrate your company’s value proposition to make the customer’s life betterShow where your product physically sitsProvide use casesSlide #4: The then and now slide, aka the why now slideOn slide #4, there’s probably a bit more digging to do, and this is where storytelling comes in. Basically, the investor wants to know two things:How has this market developed over time?If it’s such a great idea, why has no one ever done this? I also refer to this as “recent trends that have made this solution possible”.How has the market developed over time?In saying how this market has developed over time there are two options:A boring list of things that have happened over timeA chance to already address market sizing, competitors, and validation of the ideaNaturally, I prefer going with option 2, where you can also bring some humor and edge into the presentation. This increases the chances of the investor’s remembering you.Now, Airbnb didn’t have this slide in their presentation, but if they did, the historical evolution of the market could have been something like this:Staying with locals has been popular since the Birth of Christ. Mary and Joseph found no place at the Inn and stayed with a localIn the last 50 years, bed and breakfasts have been popular with travelers. Here you are basically invited into the homes of people and get to share in their livesIn the 2000’s, Couchsurfing has become popular which is based on people letting spare room for travelersRecent trends that have made this possibleMoving on from that, we now need to define the recent trends that have made this possible.Again, this serves as a double chance to also demonstrate pain points that demonstrate, why the timing is so great.I would set this up with a few “then and now columns”. This highlights the pain points that have previously been associated with the industry and shows why now is such a great time for Airbnb to become a major hit.https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Startup-pitch-deck-slide-5.jpgA few comments on the then and now boxes:There has been a security issue for hosts (and travelers). You have been letting people into your homes who might have bad intentions. This is solved with social vetting.Travelers have had no way to judge whether the host was good or not. Hotels.com has solved this for hotels while Airbnb solves this for user-to-user travel.The gig economy is making it socially acceptable to let out your rooms and make an extra dime on the sideSumming up slide #4, here’s what you need in it:Set-up the historical evolution of your categoryDefine recent trends that make your solution possibleSlide #5: The prospective buyer and the size of the marketWe are now getting to the slide in the deck you have the least control over: The size of the market.And unfortunately, the size of the market is also a huge determinant in “how rich you can get”. Naturally, the larger the market you can serve, the higher a return the investor can get and the more they’ll pay for your company.Let’s again start by seeing how Airbnb did this:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Airbnb-pitch-slide-5.jpgAgain, a slide where the message gets across, however, several things are lacking.But first off, let’s start with something Airbnb totally skipped: The typical customer. Here’s our take on the initial (early adopter) of Airbnb:Aged 20-40Culturally curious and aware of the budgetThis should be relatively simple for most companies and believe us: If you don’t know your typical customer you won’t raise any money.Market sizing: What is TAM, SAM, and SOM?Next up we get to the size of the market. This section should include three things:Total Addressable Market (“TAM”). This is all the people who can use your productServiceable Available Market (“SAM”). A part of TAM who are likely to use your productServiceable Obtainable Market (“SOM”). The subset of your SAM, that you can reasonably expect to get as customers over the next 3 yearsNow, a lot of start-ups struggle with this so let’s take a step back to explain these. First off, here’s a graphical interpretation of the three:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/TAM-SAM-and-SOM-300x300.jpgStill confused? No worry, and let’s again take Airbnb as an example:Total addressable marketThe TAM of Airbnb would be the worldwide hotel and bnb market.Basically, if you could only book any kind of stay through Airbnb the revenue of the company would be equal to TAM��… which is not going to happen.Serviceable addressable marketLet’s be more realistic instead. As Airbnb was named Air Bed and Breakfast when it started, it would be more natural to say the SAM would be equal to the entire Bed and Breakfast market.Now some of you might say this is too small a market because some hotel users will (and have) shifted to Airbnb – and you are right.But meeting investors, it is a good idea to err on the side of caution if (for no other reason) than the fact that they have seen so many pitches where the market sizing is completely off (if you watch Shark Tank you’ve probably seen this and seen, how angry the sharks get at unrealistic expectations).For TAM and SAM, you’ll probably have to find market reports or similar, to get a feel for the size of the market.The bottom-up market sizing approach:A lot of people struggle with the bottom-up approach of the SAM so here’s how we do it: The approach uses simple math to estimate the size of the market, combined with some market statistics. Investors love to see this as they can easily track your assumptions.Be aware, that these assumptions can also be a trap, as investors will judge you hard if you are too optimistic about your assumptions.Here’s how to do it:Start with the TAMEstimate the number of transactions in the market per yearEstimate the average transaction value (this can be either a market figure or a figure based on your own numbers)Serviceable Obtainable MarketThe SOM is more forgiving. This is usually represented as a percentage of the SAM. This could, for example, be capturing 20% of the bed and breakfast market.Now you might think you’re done, but investors love to see a growing market. For that, it’s a good idea to include the annual growth rate of the market (“CAGR”) – this will typically be included in the market reports where you have found your data.Putting it all together, here’s how our final market slide would look for Airbnb.https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Startup-pitch-deck-slide-6.jpgTo sum up, the market slide should contain:Identify/profile the customer you cater toCalculate the TAM (top-down), SAM (bottom-up) and SOMSlide #6: Detailing competition and showing why you're superiorThis is one slide where Airbnb did a good job, so let’s start with their example:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Airbnb-pitch-slide-9.jpgThere are many ways to visualize the market, but the one Airbnb used is by far our favorite: The “Gartner Magic Quadrant”.In this 2x2 matrix, you define the two most important points of differentiation in your industry and plot your competitors on this – and Airbnb did that well.Airbnb highlights all transactions are online and that they are more affordable than their competitors which is easy to understand.They also didn’t fall into one of the traps that many startups fall into: Not identifying any competitors.They had already used Couchsurfing and Craigslist previously in the deck to show social proof, so naturally, these two are on the slide. They also addressed both Hostels.com and Hotels.com as clear competitors.This is genius as it shows that their market could be much larger than just Couchsurfing and Craigslist and instead compete with the wider Hostel and Hotel markets as well.Now, one thing that Airbnb didn’t have on their slide is listing their competitive advantages. This can be shown in a number of ways, but we like to set up a simple matrix highlighting the advantages over our product compared to each of our competitors.Putting it all together, here’s how we would have made the Airbnb competition slide.https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Startup-pitch-deck-slide-7.jpgSumming up, here the two things your competition slide should contain:The 2x2 Gartner Magic Quadrant with your competitorsHighlight your competitive advantagesSlide #7: Showcasing your superior product to get investors talkingHere’s how Airbnb described their product:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Airbnb-pitch-slide-6.jpgWe think their product presentation is bad, and we would seriously enhance this page. Here’s why we think it fails:All three pictures are quite small and don’t seem very sexyThey fail to highlight their uniqueness – to us, this could just as well have been a Hotels.com pitch.Now, it’s easy to criticize, so here’s how we would fix these things:Use smartphone pictures instead of web pictures – these work much better in a presentation as they are optimized for smaller screensAdd bullets to highlight what makes each step of the process uniqueHighlight building critical mass and network effect across the productEspecially the latter is very important, as it highlights the switching costs. Airbnb (to our knowledge) is not protected by intellectual property rights – instead, they are protected by their market power: People post homes on Airbnb because that’s where the customers are. If they switch to another provider chances are, they’ll lose money as there are fewer customers.Here’s our product slide for Airbnb:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Startup-pitch-deck-slide-8.jpgSumming up, here’s what the product page should contain:Product line-up including any relevant features such as (a) form factor, (b) functionality, (c) features, (d) architecture, (e) intellectual property), etc.Development roadmap for your product (not relevant for Airbnb)Slide #8: Let’s make some money also known as your business model slideAnd now to the really fun part: Making money!Here’s how Airbnb rakes in the dough:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Airbnb-pitch-slide-7.jpgThe Airbnb slide gets the message across and also shows significant proof of concept with revenue of USD 200m from 2008-2011. We would keep this information on the slide.However, the slide also has some shortcomings. While they are correct in stating that their business model is “taking a 10% commission on each transaction”, they fail to show how this plays out in practice. We would break the information down in a different way, so you end up with a slide like below:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Startup-pitch-deck-slide-9.jpgNow, let’s take a step back and highlight some things investors look for in the business model slide. Here are some things they like:Active revenue streams, i.e. customers paying for a product or serviceRecurring revenue streams such as monthly or annual subscriptionsProof that customers are willing to buy the productA growing customer baseTo sum up, here’s what your business model slide should contain and how we addressed it in our Airbnb presentation:Revenue model – how revenue is generatedPricing – in this case, the commission on each bookingAverage account size and/or lifetime value – in this case, the average value of a booking to AirbnbSales & distribution model – addressed on a previous slideCustomer/pipeline list – could be included, but we decided not to include it. We will address this in the financials slideSlide #9: The team slide and demonstrating why this team is superiorThe team slide is one of the simplest slides in the deck but also one of the most important ones – and often one of the slides, that does not get the love it deserves. The slide is all about limiting execution risk and the smaller the execution risk, the larger the price an investor is willing to pay.This makes perfect sense: If you were to invest in a coffee shop would you rather invest in some guy off the street or Jerry Baldwin (one of the founders of Starbucks)?...So, here’s what investors look for in the team:Have they worked in a similar startup? And here there are of course bonus point if the previous startup was a successHave they worked in a similar market? Here there are especially bonus points for having people on board who has worked at any of your identified competitorsHave they worked with similar technology? Of less importance to Airbnb as their code is not hard to write or anything groundbreaking, however, if you have a patented product this is hugeIs the team diverse? Ideally, investors like to see at least a tech/product person, a salesperson and a financial person in the team.Has the team worked together before? The longer you’ve worked together, the less risk there is that things blow up and you leave because you hate the sight of each other.On the team slide, you should include the executive management of the firm as well as your Board of Directors / Board of Advisors.Now, most people just list the names of people and where they’ve worked before. However, they fail to address the issues of diversity and how long they’ve worked together before.Unfortunately, Airbnb didn’t include the team section in their slide package, but here’s how we would do it for a random business:https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Startup-pitch-deck-slide-10.jpgNotice a few things here:We address all five points from aboveWe divide code executive management and the Board of Directors, so investors can quickly see who’s whoWe highlight/color code any overlap the persons have previously had so it’s easy to spot for the investorSlide #10: Financials including forecasted revenue for the next three yearsOn to the last slide of the deck: The financials of the firm, and what you are going to do if you get funding.There are quite a few ways to do this and there is no exact recipe – you can make very simple or very elaborate models showing the forecasted revenue and profitability of the company.Here at BlueTieSlides, we like to err on the side of caution and keep things simple, rather than getting lost in the intricate details of a model. We typically build a model based on assumptions about revenue, gross margin and cost levels going forward and work our way down to EBIT (Earnings Before Interest and Tax Payments).The other part is what we all came for:The capital you’re looking to raise and what it should be used forThis ties in with the three-year model you’ve made: What are you actually going to use the money for?Here you should be very precise and list it in 3-4 bullets, and it should tie in with the forecast you’ve made in your model. I like to use the following format:We are seeking $xxx in a Series A:When you target the money raisedHow much capital has already been committedSo we can:Reach $xxx in sales / monthly recurring revenue (“MRR”)Expand to other markets / improve customer acquisition/file for more patentsScale our infrastructureThis is very concise, and investors know exactly what the money’s for.Putting it all together, here’s how we would have made the financial slide for Airbnb (numbers are made up):https://bluetieslides.com/wp-content/uploads//2018/03/Startup-pitch-deck-slide-11.jpgOutroNow, Airbnb obviously did raise money so who am I to tell them their presentation was bad?No one, however, I do think the presentation left a lot to the imagination of the reader and I do think Sequoias guidelines are great.And finally, I see so many people struggle with their presentation when all they need is an outline to follow.Whether you follow the outline I have given or not, I hope there's a lot you can take from the above :)

[leggogogo]

New story on Quartz: Facebook sets its sights on Yelp with a new app called LocalIn case you always thought Yelp n… http://bit.ly/2zA7JMM

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from Twitter https://twitter.com/Leggotunglei November 10, 2017 at 06:16PM via IFTTT

[scalemylife-blog]

It's truly amazing to see the #Inspiring #PassionProjects happening right here in #Kelowna. @herinternational is an initiative to help empower and support at-risk women in #Nepal and here at home. I got to attend the new brand launch on Thursday and see some of the incredible #SocialEnterprise initiatives Her International has created to help employ and uplift these women in need. Check out all their amazing initiatives @ herinternational.org/ #PassionProjectProfile's #InspiringStory #Women #WomenEmpowerment #ChangingTheWorld #Support #PeopleHelpingPeople #LocalInitiative #AmazingProject (at Edgecombe Builders)

[tiffanytitshall]

#delicious #agnolotti at #talbotprovedoreandeatery @talbotprovedore with the best @glengreenockfarm lamb sorry @calcluff wish you were here. #centralvictoria #centralgoldfields #centralvictorianfood #talbot #localfood with new #winestore in the background #localines from the #Pyrenees and beyond! http://ift.tt/2oyjRLI

[farmersoftheworld-blog]

[scalemylife-blog]

Our #ConcertForACause was a huge success! #Friends, #Family, and our local #Community came together to celebrate the launch of our new #DrivingChange campaign! It was such an incredible experience connecting with everyone and sharing our vision to accelerate #localinitiatives. The night was made truly special by amazing performances from local bands @weareimpavid and @mountainsoundmusic and we eneded the night dancing and singing with our closest friends. Thank you to everyone for coming out to support our project. Thank you to our wonderful volunteers for all your hard work you did to make the night a success. And thank you to our sponsors @hatchwines, @twowolvesbeer, and @KelownaForum. (at Kelowna Forum)