Q1: If I were going to open a non profit bookstore how would I go about doing this or getting information about doing it?
Idea Description
I plan on opening a new/used bookstore. I want to give donations to the local schools and libraries. I want to be active in my community and business organizations.
What will you do if you win $10,000 for this idea?
I plan on introducing myself to the local schools and libraries that I would help with my business. I would look into starting a program where older kids help younger kids to get better at reading.My next steps will be to get help with a business plan and a viabiltiy study to ensure tht my business starts off on the right foot. I also plan to look into different properties for my future business.
Vote for it now.
As ErickB pointed out being an independent bookseller is is a very difficult proposition with fierce competition from Internet-based sellers and large chains making it difficult for independents to compete. In addition, you will have to have a very compelling value proposition which will drive customers to your bookstore versus the competition who may be able to offer steep discounts that you can't afford.
I would strongly suggest that before you bother doing anything else you do some research on the feasibility of opening a bookstore in your area (look at your area's demographics and buying habits, do a competitive analysis, trends in independent bookselling, etc.) to see if you could do it and make the kind of profit you want. You could start your industry research by looking at the American Booksellers Association www.bookweb.org website; ABA is the association for independent booksellers.
Since your idea has such an educational and community focus you might also consider doing your idea as a non-profit venture (you can still pay yourself a salary) w…morehich may make you eligible for some government or company grants or foundation funding.
Good luck!