#038 - How to start a business (with no ideas)

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💡 THOUGHT

How to Start a Business (with no ideas)

You don't need a groundbreaking idea to start a business. You just need to start.

I remember when OpenEd was just a glimmer in my eye. There was no clearly defined roadmap, just a driving feeling that we could do education better for our children. So this recent Forbes article titled ‘How to Start a Business with No Ideas’ caught my eye, and I had to share some of the lessons that resonate most with me:

1. Be a problem detective. The best businesses solve pain points. What irks you daily?

2. Passion + skill = potential goldmine. What do you love? What are you good at? That intersection is your sweet spot.

3. Network like your business depends on it (because it does). Ideas spark from conversations.

4. MVP = Minimum Viable Product, not Most Valuable Player. Start small, iterate fast.

5. Feedback is your new best friend. Embrace it, even when it stings.

Remember: Every expert was once a beginner. Successful leaders didn't start there—they started by starting.

So, what challenge will you begin to solve this week?

– Matt

📊 TREND

Student Entrepreneurs Tackle Real-world Challenges

Aiden Prout, an OpenEd alum who did all K-12 years in the program, exemplifies the trend of young entrepreneurs creating innovative solutions to real-world problems.

Using skills from our 3D Modeling course, 17-year-old Aiden developed garden boxes that use 93.5% less water and require no weeding.

Aiden's business earned over $150,000 in its first year (!), far exceeding his initial $10,000 goal. We love to see it. Keep it up, Aiden!

Learn more at WeedFreeGarden.com.

🛠️ TOOL

The Ultimate Guide to Marketing Yourself

Not everyone needs to become an entrepreneur, but in today's dynamic job market, thinking like one is nearly essential. That's why we're excited to share our new guide on "Marketing Yourself: A Guide for Career-Bound Students."

Originally developed by Isaac Morehouse to help students create compelling applications for the Praxis professional development program, we’ve adapted it for OpenEd students and prospective students. It focuses on showcasing actual projects and learnings rather than just listing achievements.

What you'll learn inside:

• How to create impactful project write-ups

• How to craft a personal pitch deck that tells your unique story

• How to develop a narrative that goes beyond your resume

Do you know someone applying to college, entering the job market, or exploring entrepreneurship? Forward this email! This guide will help them present their best selves to the world.

👉 Access the full guide here

(MEME) OF THE DAY

The term “Coke bottle glasses " has a whole new meaning. We’ll take 20 of them.

That’s all for today!

– Charlie (the OpenEd newsletter guy)