I finished my master's degree in business administration a year ago. While I feel fortunate that my job pays well, is challenging and offers great responsibilities, I want to start my own business in Prague or elsewhere in the Czech Republic. I don't have a concrete business plan, but I see trends and have ideas. Where can I find like-minded people or organizations other than chambers of commerce to flesh out ideas?
Having the ability to see trends and build on your ideas is essential if you're to pursue entrepreneurial goals. Start by identifying three to five areas of unfilled needs in which you have knowledge or experience. Then approach potential clients or customers to get feedback on your ideas. You'll learn quickly if you're on target or off base. Next you'll need to create a business plan to determine the feasibility of your ideas. Don't leave it to chance; do your homework.
We strongly suggest that you don't invest your money at this point, just your time. You're in a good position to do this now since you like your job and consider your salary sufficient. Down the road, when you're more certain that your ideas will work, you'll have the option of leaving your current job to pursue your plan full time. Then you'll also be in a better position to persuade others to help bear the financial risk of your venture.
As for finding like-minded people, we suggest that you tap into the alumni network from your M.B.A. program. You're only one year out of school and hopefully have kept in touch with fellow students, professors and advisers. Use them as sounding boards and for generating leads to help you find people who share your desire for tapping into unexplored opportunities. Comb local papers and publications, such as the Warsaw Voice, for notifications of professional and business meetings. Put yourself out in the community and meet with people at every chance. Think of every contact you make as an opportunity to gather information to help you reach your goal.