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| Initial Business Plan |
| Knowing that we wanted to set up an organization that would develop and grow as time and energy were applied to it, we developed an initial business plan for the Center when it was initially formed in 2002. Five years later we are revising the business plan to ensure we stay within our mission of teaching tolerance and serving those who have chosen a solo-spiritual path. Please feel free to write to Dr. Nikki, the developer of the business plan, if you have any questions or would like additional information. |
| INITIAL BUSINESS PLAN for BLACK ROSE SPIRITUAL CENTER Prepared by: Dr. Nikki J. Delaney Lead Clergy Black Rose Spiritual Center 961-1561 TABLE OF CONTENTS I. The Business Description A. Name, Address, Type of Business B. Date Founded, By Whom, Why C. Form and Ownership D. Mission Statement, Business Goals E. Key Officers, Management F. Products/Services Offered G. Markets/Customers Served H. Distribution of Products/Services II. The Marketing Plan A. Products/Services Differentiation B. Industry Profile C. Competitive Analysis D. Market Demographics/Size E. Target Market/Customer Profile F. Marketing Strategy/Market Share III. Operating and Control Systems A. Personnel B. Production/Service Methods C. Quality Control D. Facilities E. Suppliers F. Recordkeeping Policies and Procedures G. Billing and Collection Policies and Procedures IV. The Financial Plan A. Historical Financial Statements B. Current Balance Statement C. Pricing Strategy, Gross Profit Margin D. Breakeven Analysis E. Projected Cash Flow F. Forecasting Assumptions G. Risk Analysis and Alternative Plans of Action I. The Business Description A. Name, Address, Type of Business: Black Rose Spiritual Center is a religious non-profit Montana corporation, being a non-denomination spiritual center located at 420 Mill Creek Road, Hamilton, Montana. The Center provides provides a wide range of clergical, pastoral counseling, and spiritual services as explained further in this plan. Dr. Nikki J. Delaney, Reverend, and James R. Delaney, Reverend of 420 Mill Creek Road, Hamilton, MT are the founders of the Center. B. Date Founded, By Whom, Why: Black Rose Spiritual Center has been a long held calling for Dr. Delaney. In August of 2001 when she received notification that her degree programs would be completed in December she and her husband spent several months soul-searching and deciding just how best to serve mankind with their abilities. They were encouraged to continue with the positive input received from friends and associates. One comment that was raised quite frequently was how difficult it was to have something other than the standard church or justice of the peace wedding here in the Valley. Finding someone to officiate apparently is a real problem. Another common complaint was the lack of professional quality spiritual practitioners for counseling, path guidance and path research assistance. Dr. and Rev. Delaney began planning and working on the Center specifically in August of 2002. The core aspect of the Center, the new-age and spiritual counseling was decided on following Dr. Delaney’s nearly four years of experience doing “psychic” readings part time as an independent contractor while completing her education. That experience over an extended period indicated that the new-age/spiritual counseling services could be a strong central income generator for the Center. Dr. Delaney’s experience in the area was an impetus for her and Reverend Delaney’s choice to open a spiritual center to serve the needs of the members of the community. Black Rose Spiritual Center was founded on the 2nd of January, 2002 with the Articles of Incorporation being approved by the State of Montana on the 7th of January of that year. Dr. Nikki J. Delaney, who has made a lifetime study of spiritual matters, ultimately earning her doctoral degrees in Divinity and Theology, was the incorporator of the Center. Black Rose Spiritual Center was developed to promote the message of tolerance and understanding between the wide and varied religious and spiritual beliefs of our time along with providing pastoral/clergical support and services for those individuals who have chosen the solo spiritual path. |
| C. Form and Ownership: Black Rose Spiritual Center is a religious non-profit corporation duly organized under the Laws of the State of Montana (Filing Number: D-113412-385819). The Center has applied for it’s formal recognition as a non-profit agency by the Internal Revenue Service under 501(c)(3) status and expects to receive notification of the approval this spring. Black Rose Spiritual Center’s Federal Employer Identification Number is: 80-0011807. The Board of Directors for the Corporation are as follows: Lead Clergy/President First Envoy/V.Pres. Sec./Treas. Dr. Nikki J. Delaney, Rev. Abbie Jones Rev James R. Delaney 420 Mill Creek Road 4710 Eastside Hwy 420 Mill Creek Road Hamilton, MT 59840 Stevensville, MT 59870 Hamilton MT 59840 D. Mission Statement, Business Goals Our mission is to provide a place of worship, a community, and a connecting point for like minded individuals who identify themselves as being on a spiritual path or journey. We shall provide for all manner of pastoral services through trained members of the Clergy. We shall endeavor to facilitate communication between members of all esoteric religions and those of the more common religions of the present day, and seek to educate both the general public and members of the Church about various beliefs and practices as a whole. First Year Goal: To have membership of 35 active Center members. We hope to have established the Center as a viable and contributing entity within the community. To establish a steady clientele base for pastoral/spiritual services and counseling of at least 100. To being in-house publishing of literature and information prepared by Black Rose spiritual Center personnel. Fifth Year Goal: To have debt reduced to less than $5,000 and to have retained earnings in the amount of $10,000. To have benefits for employees/staff of the Black Rose Spiritual Center commiserate with equivalent positions in other non-profit organizations in the area. To be in a financial position for Black Rose Spiritual Center to be able to obtain a site for the operation of the Center; including a general meeting room, offices, for staff personnel, supply storage area, and a garden area for services for those who prefer to perform their devotions in the out of doors. E. Key Officers, Management The Key Officers and Management for the Black Rose Spiritual Center are: Lead Clergy: Dr. Nikki J. Delaney, Reverend. For Dr. Delaney’s administrative, managerial and business experience please see her resume attached hereto. Dr. Delaney, as Lead Clergy, will hold the primary responsibility for management of the Black Rose Spiritual Center. Dr. Delaney has over 20 years of administrative and managerial experience as evidenced by her attached resume. She has been responsible for the accounting and bookkeeping of law offices with operating budgets in excess of $900 Million annually. Second Clergy: Reverend James R. Delaney. For Reverend Delaney’s business and work experience, please see his resume attached hereto. Prior to his injury Reverend Delaney had held numerous positions requiring such management expertise as time utilization and equipment and personnel management. First Envoy: Ms. Abbie M. Jones currently serves as First Envoy. Ms. Jones is the daughter of Dr. and Rev. Delaney. It is planned to replace Ms. Jones as First Envoy within the first six months. Ms. Jones volunteered to serve as First Envoy until such time as another individual can take the position in order to be able to begin the processes to ensure legal viability of the Center (Board of Directors of a minimum of three persons). We hope to free Ms. Jones of this burden so that a non-relative can add balance to the Board of Directors as soon as possible. F. Products/Services Offered Following is a comprehensive listing of the services that are either currently provided by Black Rose Spiritual Center or services we plan to offer in the near future. Clergical Services: (currently offered) Wedding Ceremonies Baptismal Ceremonies Naming Ceremonies Funeral/Departure/Crossing Over Ceremonies Spiritual Development Counseling Pastoral Counseling House Blessings Spiritual Cleansings (for animate and inanimate objects) Pet Blessings Spiritual Path Research One-on-One Spiritual Direction Please note that Black Rose Spiritual Center has petitioned to the Judge of the District Court for approval by the Court to be able to perform the Pre-Marital Counseling of minors required as per MC 401, we expect to be receiving our approval in the near future. New Age/Spiritual Services Special Order Ceremonial Candles Tarot Readings Astrological Charts (Noel Tyl and Halloran Systems) Spiritual Path Charts Compatibility Charts Natal Charts Career Charts Horoscopes (different from astrology) Palmistry Numerology Crystal Reading Pendulum Reading Rune Stone Reading (Blum method) Crystal Charging Birth Date Analysis (different system from Astrology) Date Projections (best date for when to apply for a job, etc. – astrology based system) Career Analysis Charts Dream Interpretation Cross-Reference Charting (how does astrology match palmistry, numerology, crystals, pendulum, candles, I Ching, runs, etc.) Booth Sales: (currently offered) As part of its outreach ministry Black Rose Spiritual Center operates a craft booth at local community events. Although the primary focus of the “booth” is to facilitate our outreach ministry so that we can get the word out as to who we are and what we do, it also serves as an additional source of income – to raise funds for the Center we sell candles, incense and informational literature. Black Rose Spiritual Center is currently negotiating with several local artists to enter into consignment agreements to sell their jewelry and crafts at our booth. |
| E-Commerce: Black Rose Spiritual Center plans to create and operate a full service website. This web site will facilitate all aspects of income generating potential for the Black Rose Spiritual Center such as advertising for spiritual/pastoral/new-age counseling (see specific lists above) along with clergical services and another format to sell the items which are normally sold at our booth. The website is also projected to contain our message of tolerance and acceptance of all positive spiritual paths G. Markets/Customers Served Black Rose Spiritual Center’s services can be utilized by individuals of any age (however, minors under the age of 18 must have written authorization from their parents to participate in activities or receive services, except for purchases of booth items). Market research indicates that the prime target market are females, aged 18-35. Black Rose Spiritual Center’s regional market focus is actually two fold. We have identified two specific markets: 1. Ravalli County/local area: The County of Ravalli website indicates there are currently approximately 38,000 residents in the county. This will be our primary local market. Statistics indicate that less than 30% of the residents of Ravalli County consider themselves a member of a local church or religious organization. Further, it is not unreasonable to expect Black Rose Spiritual Center to garner a certain small percentage of clients from the Missoula area. 2. World Wide Web: Although it is believed that our primary sources of income will be from the local are market, the e- commerce market should not be discounted. It is projected that within one year of launching our web presence, Black Rose Spiritual Center can reasonably expect to garner an average of at least 200 hits per month. The web site would be targeted to a female, 18-35 primary market. H. Distribution of Products/Services: Black Rose Spiritual Center will distribute services in a variety of ways: 1. In Person: a. Booth Sales: Booth sales will be done one on one. Black Rose Spiritual Center has the capability to participate in more than one of these activities at a time as they are often scheduled in conflict with one another. Currently booth sales are our primary source of income; however, we expect the clergical/pastoral services to overtake the booth sales within the first few months of operation. Please see attached photographs of tent and awning which will be used for booth sales. Black Rose Spiritual Center is planned to participate in as many as possible of the following venues, along with others not on this list. (1) Flea markets (2) Art sales (3) Ravalli County Fair (4) Marcus Daly Days (5) Creamery Picnic Days (6) Florence Renaissance Faire (7) Chief Victor Days (8) Stevensville Western Days (9) Darby Strawberry Festival (10) Farmers Markets in the Bitterroot Valley (May-Sept Thurs) (11) Crafters Markets in the Bitterroot Valley (My-Sept Sat) (12) The Museum at Fort Missoula’s Fourth of July Celebration (13) Society for Creative Anachronism Events (4 per yr, avg attendance 100-125 people) (14) Craft Shows and Church Bazaars. b. Pastoral/Clergical Services. Black Rose Spiritual Center will offer spiritual and healing one-on-one either in its planned offices at 420 Mill Creek Road or in the Serenity Garden area of the same property. Should the individual prefer staff members will meet them at the time and place of the client’s choosing, within reason. In cases where we travel to the client we may charge travel expenses if appropriate. 2. Telephone: Black Rose Spiritual Center is please to provide pre-paid telephonic consultations with interested persons. Our policy dictates that clients pay any long distance telephone fees associated with the call. 3. Mail. Mail delivery of pre-paid information (i.e. pre-paid printed astrology reports, date analysis, etc.) purchases. The Corvallis Post Office and the Hamilton Post Office are both full service postal facilities within 10 miles of the Center’s location. 4. E-Commerce. E-Commerce brings another venue to our distribution which would be through the internet itself. Since a lot of the information is intellectual, it can be distributed through such venues as web site “drops” (wherein the information is posted on a specific website and the client is allowed access through a paid-for password), electronic mailings and other venues available on the World Wide Web such as real time chats and videoconferencing. With the advent of broadband capability in the Valley (Source: Ravalli Republic, March 2002) the Center – should e-commerce prove more effective and income generating than planned, can even broaden it’s e-services through real time technologies only available through broadband access. It should be noted that Black Rose Spiritual Center is currently in negations with NPC to be able to accept Visa, M/C, American Express and Discover credit cards in all its various venues. II. The Marketing Plan A. Products/Services Differentiation For simplicity sake, we will break down the differentiation for each of the “four lets” that support the business plan. However, particular attention should be made to the New-Age and Pastoral counseling services which are expected to be the backbone of our financial structure. 1. Clergical/Pastoral Services. Here we differ from other agencies offereing the same services (i.e. local churches, ordained evangelistic ministers, justices of the peace, etc.) in several ways. a. The Clergy of Black Rose Spiritual Center are interfaith, non-denominational clergy. We do not discriminate nor refuse clergical services to anyone who requests them. b. Clients need not be members of the church to have one of our ordained ministers perform a ceremony or other services for them. c. We are able to offer services in a wide variety of belief systems. Dr. Delaney is neo-pagan in her belief system, and Reverend Delaney subscribes to a Christian based belief system. d. Reverend Delaney is ordained as an Interfaith Minister. e. Doctor Delaney not only holds doctorate degrees in Divinity and Theology, she has received ordinations as the following: Interfaith Minister, Psychic Minister, Esoteric Minister, and High Priestess. f. Black Rose Spiritual Center will provide services outside of the normal business hours on an appointment only basis. 2. New Age/Spiritual Services: Dr. Delaney has over 25 years experience doing new age readings through various methods. She has nearly four years of experience working the “psychic lines” networks. Reverend Delaney also brings considerable life experience to the Center along with his knowledge of several self-actualization tools. Further, the Delaney’s in-depth knowledge of numerous self-actualization devices such as tarot, pendulum reading, palmistry, etc. allows for a “cross- referencing” between the various devices/practices for a double-check that allows for deeper meaning and understanding. 3. Booth Sales: Black Rose Spiritual Center has developed and created an attractive booth which focuses on the sale of our hand made art candles. Each candle is hand-crafted by our volunteer personnel. The booth will offer informational and instructional literature on various practices and belief systems in unobtrusive ways. For a more detailed outline of the booth plan, please see the attached Booth Description. 4. E-Commerce: Not only do 1-3 apply within the context of our e-commerce services, the Center plans on developing a web site that focuses on quality, timeliness, and tolerance. |
| B. Industry Profile Black Rose Spiritual Center actually straddles several different and distinct industries. As above, to maintain clarity, we will address each of the four legs separately. 1. The first, of course, is the religious or “church” side of the center – the clergical services. This is the core of why we are here. Although we are primarily concerned with temporal matters, we must operate in the secular world. The “religious industry” in this country is alive and thriving. The “religious industry” is a wide reaching one of long standing which pans the globe and that can trace its beginnings into antiquity. Although the “religious industry” waxes and wanes depending on the political, personal, and spiritual climate of the times, the Millennium Watch Institute indicates that of the 6 billion inhabitants of the planet, 5 billion have some type of religious or spiritual belief. Of that 5 billion approximately 3/5ths or 3 billion profess to belong to an established religious belief system (i.e. Buddhists, Islamic, Judo-Christian, etc.) The remaining 2 billion comprise those that don’t have any religious beliefs at all (approximately 25%) and those that have chosen a solo-spiritual path (75%) (Millennium Watch Institute Report, December, 1999. 2. New Age/Spiritual Center: Black Rose spiritual Center feels it can provide a wider range of services within a much broader range of belief-system frameworks than currently offered by practitioners in this area. Unlike many of the solo-practitioner “readers”, the Clergy of Black Rose Spiritual Center hold certifications in numerous belief practices, have received training in counseling of those in their care, and are dedicated full time to the Center. The “New Age” industry has its beginnings in the religious expansionism of the isolation of religious groups during the westward movement in the latter part of the 19th Century. During that time there was an explosion of new belief systems or variations of existing systems. However, the new age industry has evolved with the primary changes coming in the social upheaval of the mid- decades of the prior Century. Many consider the “Age of Aquarius” the advent of the “New Age” industry. This is incorrect. Again, this is an industry of long standing. Unfortunately, a lot of the history is negative. The industry is still fighting this negativity through certification processes, professional associations and various other self-regulating practices and improvements. Black Rose Spiritual Center considers itself on the forefront of this movement. Nationally recognized publications such as Time, Newsweek, Wall Street Journal and others have published articles on the increasing “Psychic/New Age” industry. In 2001, according to the Psychic Magazine, the “Psychic/New Age” industry in the United States alone had sales volume in excess of $3 billion per year. 3. Booth Sales: The venues we plan to participate in have a wide range of vendor participants from local flea market/craft fairs that have 5-10 vendors and a “gate” of less than 100, a mid-range of 10-30 vendors and a gate of 100-1000 (i.e. the Florence Renaissance Fair), and large venues which have over 30 vendors and a gate in excess of 1,000 (i.e. the Ravalli County Fair). According to the State of Montana Department of Commerce the craft and artist fair volume sales is difficult to track, but for the last year that statistics are available, it was believed that the craft and artist fair/booth type sales volume for 1999 was in excess of $750,000 state wide. (Source: Montana Department of Commerce.) 4. E-Commerce: The internet has a long history of religious and New Age web sites. The sites offer a wide range of services at prices ranging from $0.20 per minute for telephonic advice; to Mr. John Edward of “Crossing Over” fame who commands $300.00 per reading with an additional $100 for another family member added – the average reading being thirty minutes; to $750.00 per hour charged by Dr. Sylvia Browne and any price in between. We plan to use what we consider an appropriate mid- range between these two extremes. Our pricing is detailed later in this proposal. Essentially we will be offering all the services listed in 1-3 above on our web site. Although there has been a considerable downturn on the NASDAQ because of the failing of e-commerce companies, e-commerce is still a viable and growing “industry” in and of itself. Nationally reported web sales for December 2001 were up almost 20 percent over the web sales from 2000 for the month of December. (Source CNNfi, February 2002) E-commerce is a growing and expanding industry and is expected to continue to grow on the whole through the next decade. Following the September 11, 2001 bombings of the World Trade Center and the Pentagon there has been a marked increase in religious and spiritual activity on the part of the individual both in America and around the globe. Some are just praying more, more are going to church, others are seeking for deeper meaning, etc. We consider the religious/clergical services and New Age Services to belong to industries that not only have millennium-long track records, but are experiencing a resurgence of interest, participation and experimentation. C. Competitive Analysis 1. Religious/Clergical Services: Currently there are over 40 active churches within the Bitterroot Valley; these churches have an average of 30 to 35 members. Literally all religious groups listed in the Bitterroot 2001 Phone Directory are Christian based and are exclusive of all other belief systems. 2. New Age/Spiritual Center. There are two existing “Spiritual Centers” here in the Hamilton area. The first is the Common Ground Center, the other is Star Haven. Both these organizations focus on education and community through sponsoring seminars, talks, classes and retreats. They do not have ordained clergy on staff (although the Common Ground Center is affiliated with the Ekubana Church) and do not offer any direct services such as those we are providing. We do not consider these centers as direct competition as they do not provide similar services to Black Rose Spiritual Center. Missoula’s “Spiritual Healing Center” is a potential competitor; however, they are outside of our primary target area of the Bitterroot Valley. It should be noted that Black Rose Spiritual Center has looked into potential “competition” from the professional counseling sector. Although not considered a direct competition (Black Rose Spiritual Center does not provide professional counseling services, we provide pastoral or spiritual counseling which, by law, is separate and distinct from professional counseling.) It is obvious there is a need for additional professional counselors (individuals who have the required certifications to perform professional mental health care as defined by Montana State Code) in the Valley. A random phone survey of five counselors/mental health professionals in the area indicated a substantial waiting period before one could be seen unless there was a “crisis intervention” needed. So minimal competition is expected from this sector – in fact, we will be referring those clients whom we feel should seek the attention of a certified mental health professional to the professional counseling sector. There are several “readers” in the area, but all seem to focus either on a particular spiritual path method (i.e. we have several Shamans, Water Witches, Medicine Women, Crystal Healers, etc. in the Bitterroot Valley) or are exclusive in their belief system (i.e. if you come to learn from us you can only believe what we tell you). These potential competitors appear to be operating mainly on a part time basis, many of them holding other full-time or part-time employment and not dedicating themselves full time to their services. Research indicates that there are three operating Tarot “readers” in the Valley. One is located in Lolo, one in Victor and one in Darby. Numerous attempts were made to reach two of the three readers, however, these attempts resulted in receiving either a not in service recording or no answer. The third had a recorded message during business and evening hours. A check of local advertising and telephone listings indicate there are no practicing astrologers in the area either. 3. Booth Sales: Primarily, our competition in the booth sales area would be competition from the other vendors at the particular venue we are participating at the time. To date, we have not had any direct competitors offering the same type of goods at any of our booth sale opportunities and many of the venues only allow one or two booths who sell the same type of items at the activity. It is expected that booth sales will be inflated over the next two year period due to the increase in travel in the area for celebration of the Lewis & Clark Expedition anniversary. 4. E-Commerce: Honestly, in this venue the competitors of one type or another are myriad, literally in the hundreds of thousands; web sites for “psychic readings”, churches, spiritual guidance and things of that nature abound on the web. It is believed that Black Rose Spiritual Center will be able to garner a small share of the available market through appropriate listings, advertisings, joining of “web rings” and other advertising and/or linking opportunities on the web. Black Rose Spiritual Center is a “step above” many of the sites because we are or have several things many of our web competitors do not: a) the level of competence, training, experience and certifications of our staff personnel; b) the wide range of services we will be able to offer; and c) our one of a kind art candles and items that will be offered on the net as well. This wide range of interests covered should allow us more hits than just the websites with a narrower focus such as those featuring just astrology or palmistry, etc. D. Market Demographics/Size According to the United States Census Bureau websites, as of the April 2000 census, the following statistics apply for Ravalli County and Montana as indicated. (Note numbers have been rounded for simplicity). Description Ravalli County St of Montana Total Population 36,000 902,000 Change in population 1990-2000 +44.2 +12.9 Persons over the age of 18 (%) 74.5% 74.5% Persons over 65 15.5% 15.5% Females 50.3% 53.3% Households 14,300 358,000 Persons per households 2.48 2.45 The trends for Ravalli County indicate continued growth. Since the 2000 census the County has continued in a double-digit growth rate with current population estimated at approximately 38,000. Ravalli County is in the midst of a rapid period of growth that is expected to continue in its current trends through the end of the decade, although it is expected to slow somewhat compared to the last decade’s 44.2% growth rate. (Source: Ravalli County Commissioners’ Office.) Market concentrations can expect to be found in the township areas of Darby, Hamilton Victor, Stevensville, Lolo and Florence. As stated above, and since we will be participating in events and activities there, it is not unreasonable to believe that Black Rose Spiritual Center will be able to garner a certain number of clients from the Missoula are. E-Commerce industry statistics show there are over 500 million internet service subscribers, both business and personal, worldwide. Black Rose Spiritual Center feels the only way to properly consider thee web marker is: “English reading, internet access, female, 18-35.” Projections of market share would be useless due to all the variables involved. Income from this sector is not factored into the plan. |
| E. Target Market/Customer Profile Although Black Rose Spiritual Center is a non-denominational religious non-profit organization dedicated to serving all of mankind, the management realizes that one must start somewhere with it’s marketing and advertising campaign. In that vein, we will again indicate the appropriate target audience for the “four sectors” of services that we provide: 1. Clergical Services: The average “solo-practicioner” or one who has chosen to follow a personal path is typically well- educated, independent in thinking, working in a professional or quasi-professional position. Normally the solo-practitioner is male, although a growing number of females are moving from either agnosticism or organized religion to a solo path. Further, looking at the “whole family”, the average family that avails itself is middle-aged with adult or near adult children. Finally, a growing number of seniors experience a desire to reconnect with their spiritual side upon retirement or when facing life- threatening illnesses. 2. New Age Services: Following a review of nearly ten years of compiled data from working the psychic lines we have computed that our target market will be working single females between the ages of 18-34 with one or more children. This market tends to reach out more readily for help when faced with difficulties with life and spiritual issues. Computations indicated a reasonably expected total target market within the Bitterroot Valley of approximately 4,206 people who are more than likely to avail themselves of New Age services. 3. Booth Sales: Our market for the booth sales are primarily the “impulse buyers” attending the event. Each event has its own flavor or market, but normally they can be broken down into two types of venues: local buyers and tourist buyers. Black Rose Spiritual Center will be focusing on the local buyers. Please see the above statistics on the population of the County and State for the appropriate figures on population base. 4. E-Commerce: The above stated 18-34 single female market will be the prime market, with a secondary target market of retired females over 60. F. Marketing Strategy/Market Share: Black Rose Spiritual Center marketing plan relies on the following outline which is, essentially a marketing plan for the Center, as soon as feasibly possible: 1. Advertising/Word of Mouth Campaign: This is our primary form of getting our message out to the general public. In order to do that the clergy of Black Rose Spiritual Center will reach out to our target market by the following: a. Yellow page advertisement under churches and spiritual centers in the yellow pages (first publication would most likely be 2003). b. Putting up flyers at local spiritual gathering places such as the Sleeping Child Center and the Common Ground Center, both in Hamilton. c. Posting Announcements to the local newspapers including the Missoulian, Bitterroot Star, and Ravalli Republic Religious Page(s) along with the Missoula Independent. d. Visit local churches and talk with the pastors thereof. e. Visit with local counseling professionals such as licensed clinical professional counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists so that we may have appropriate referral for those of our clients who require the services of a mental health professional and/or clinical counseling care rather than pastoral counseling; and request reciprocity if they feel it appropriate. f. Outreach Booth. Through our outreach booth we are continually out in the community talking to people about who we are, what we do and getting our message out to the public at large. The outreach booth has a prominent banner sign announcing who we are. g. We plan on joining local non-profit business organizations to help promote the Black Rose Spiritual Center such as the Chamber of Commerce and volunteering at the Daly Mansion, a local architectural and historical treasure. After we join the Chamber of Commerce we have the option of leaving informational literature and business cards at the Chamber office for display/availability to the public. h. As discussed above, in the future we plan on having a presence on the World Wide Web, our e-commerce site, which will advertise by joining web rings, registering on various search engines and other standard methods of e-commerce as the budget allows. i. In a two-fold effort to serve the community and let the community know who we are and what we are about, along with continuing our efforts of serving our fellow man, members of the Black Rose Spiritual Center are encouraged to volunteer in the name of the Center at appropriate venues such as local hospitals, churches, nursing homes, hospitals, hospice centers, etc. Further, the Clergy will be reaching out to nursing homes, funeral homes, hospice, the police department and volunteer fire and rescue services to volunteer clergical or pastoral services for individuals in need, at times of crisis, as volunteer ministers. j. Further we plant to purchase advertising in appropriate newsletters such as the Common Ground Newsletter and the Sleeping Child Newsletter, along with newspapers and local ad sheets such as Tid Bits and Nickle-Saver and Hamilton Play-House Programs. When funds become available an aggressive advertising plan will be implemented expanding the print advertising into local television and radio stations. k. Black Rose Spiritual Center will also do the following to attract new members and customers: (1) Its own newsletter; (2) Through advertisement in the local newspaper, The Ravalli Republic (which has a listing of churches in the community), along with the time and place of services. (3) Through the posting of advertisements at local community bulleting boards such as those at local community centers, senior centers, hospitals, clinics, and grocery stores. (4) Purchase pre-movie screen advertising at the local Pharoah Plex movie theater and a variety of other local venue advertising opportunities. (5) Posting of advertising materials at local hotels, resorts, and campgrounds. We consider our total market 27,000 (estimated number of persons over 18 in the Bitterroot Valley). It is not unreasonable to expect a modest services utilization of 2% for new-age and spiritual counseling services within one year, four percent within three years, leveling off with an estimated five percent (1,350 persons per annum) services utilization at the five year point, This uses just a small percentage of the “new age” industry statistics that 23% of Americans have or will use “psychic or new age” services at some time in their lives, whether seriously or for entertainment purposes. Please note that this market utilization does not account for a limited use by the tourist sector during the prime summer months. It is through an initial programmed $2,000 advertising budget for the year that Black Rose Spiritual Center feels it will be able to establish name recognition and interest in our wide range of services. Additionally, cash flow projections have projected a reasonable monthly advertising budget for 2003 and 2004. As Dr. Delaney is an experienced graphic artist the Center will be able to provide “camera-ready” advertising copy in most cases. The Center plans on developing different advertising programs to reach various individual target audiences with the main target audience being the prime 18-35 age female category. Please see the attached informational brochure, letterhead, and business cards. |
| III. OPERATING AND CONTROL SYSTEMS A. Personnel During the initial phases of Black Rose Spiritual Center it is expected that it will have only one true employee, Dr. Nikki J. Delaney, Reverend its Lead Clergy. Dr. Delaney will be overseeing all functions of the organization and will be supervising the activities of all volunteers. Reverend Delaney’s contributions to the Black Rose Spiritual Center will be voluntary in nature as he is already garnering an income through disability and medical retirement. Dr. Delaney is supervised by the Board of Directors. As First (lead) Clergy, per the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, Dr. Delaney will be responsible for overseeing all Church functions. The First Clergy is further responsible for the oversight and implementation of all aspects of the business plan as outlined herein and the Black Rose Spiritual Center’s officially recognized business outline which is our IRS Form 1023 application packet which is available for review upon request. Her pay rate, as approved by the Order (Board of Directors) is as follows: year 2002- $14,000 (with the first month of payroll being May 2002); 2003 - $21,600; 2004 - $24,000. Black Rose Spiritual Center will be relying on volunteer workers and in-kind contributors who volunteer time to help at the Center. B. Production/Service Methods: Much of the “production/service” of Black Rose Spiritual Center is intellectual in nature. All spiritual counseling and clergical/pastoral services will only be performed by recognized ordained members of the clergy who have been trained in accordance with Black Rose Spiritual Center standards. This also includes much of the New Age services, although a lay person may perform such services as doing “readings” with self-actualization devices after proving to the Order that they are qualified to do so, and under the direct and immediate supervision of an ordained member of the clergy. Dr. Delaney and Reverend Delaney are currently producing intellectual material (printed) to be sold at the Booth Sales. These materials include broadsides, booklets and pamphlets on various issues relating to spirituality and religion. Further, the Delaneys and other volunteers produced the candles to be sold at the booth on an as-needed basis. Currently Black Rose Spiritual Center has in excess of $1500 worth of candles for at the booth. Each candle is checked and inspected by someone other than the producer when it is wrapped and marked for sale to ensure quality control. It would be difficult to describe a “typical” day for Black Rose Spiritual Center as we are an emerging new entity offering a wide range of services in a variety of venues. However, the following is what an average day of operations for new-age/pastoral counseling for the Center would be: 8:00 a.m. Office opens. A review of the calendar for the day is made by Lead Clergy 9:00-1:00 – appointment times for counseling & reading sessions by Dr. & Rev. Delaney 1:00-2:00 – Lunch 3:00-5:00 – appointment times for counseling & reading sessions by Dr. & Rev. Delaney 5:00 pm – office closes 7:30 pm – church meeting (on appropriate days) Currently Black Rose Spiritual Center operates under an “appointment only” basis. Although it is preferred for clients to come to our offices at 420 Mill Creek for pastoral counseling, in our pastoral outreach we must facilitate the needs of those in our pastoral care by going to them when necessary. This is especially true in the arena of ceremonies including pet blessings, house blessings, and funerals. Please see the attached Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws, and Minutes of the Meetings of the Order (Board of Directors) for in-depth job descriptions of the officers of the corporation and leaders of the church for more information than provided in this summary. Volunteers perform operations such as candle making or work in the Serenity Garden or meeting room under the supervision of Rev. Delaney. Rev. Delaney will also assume oversight of the proposed room construction project. As it is with any small operation, the principals wear many hats. To more accurately show activities of Dr. Delaney and Reverend Delaney, please refer to the chart below. MONTHLY TIME UTILIZATION CHART FOR BLACK ROSE SPIRITUAL CTR Description Dr. Delaney Rev. Delaney Volunteers 200 hrs mth 100 (health permitting) Administrative 40 8 10 Bookkeeping 10 5 0 Counseling 75 25 0 Charitable Acts 15 5 0 Clergical 10 15 0 New-Age/Misc. 25 5 0 Booth 16 32 32 E-Commercen 20 5 UNK C. Quality Control Consistency in quality of our products and services is preserved through a system of checks and balances include such things as the Elders having authority to implement disciplinary action on a member of the clergy, the review of all written material prior to publication by the Order, and the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws are specifically designed to ensure these checks and balances are kept in place. Further, the Black Rose Spiritual Center operates under the guidelines of Church Administration and Financial Manual, Resources for Leading the Local Church by Otto F. Crumroy, Jr. et. al. That volume is incorporated into our By-Laws by reference. It provides excellent checks and balances on the supervision of both clergy and lay personnel in the church setting. Further, our belief system is based on the Christian Theology of “Do unto others” and the pagan tenant “to bring no harm to anyone”. This essential belief requires we deal with all our customers ina professional and ethical manner. Our Code of Ethics is included in the attached Black Rose Spiritual Center Pamphlet. In regard to the goods (candles, etc.) made to sell at the outreach ministry booth, quality control is maintained through several means including an inspection of each item by a person other that the one who made it at the time of wrapping and packaging for sale. Additionally, all volunteer activities are normally overseen by a member of the Order. Those candles or items which are considered “unfit” for sale will either be melted down and reconstructed or given away during our outreach ministry. For those items taken on consignment for the booth, the items are reviewed by at least one if not more members of the Order to ensure they are of an appropriate quality and nature to be sold at the Black Rose Spiritual Center Booth. As ordained ministers both Dr. Delaney and Reverend Delaney are legally eligible to perform spiritual or pastoral counseling within the state of Montana. Montana law specifically delineates between pastoral counseling and professional mental health care providers as certified professional counselors. D. Facilities The current facilities for Black Rose Spiritual Center are located at 420 Mill Creek Road in Hamilton, Montana. The facilities consist of approximately 9.5 acres of rented property (on a month to month rental in the amount of $205.00 per month – the Delaneys have been renting this property since August 1996) upon which is set a 1976 14x75 single-wide, three bedroom mobile home which is the residence of the Delaneys (which they own outright), along with two storage sheds of which we have use but are the property of the Landlord. Further, the Delaneys have constructed a “Serenity Garden” with two pools and three small waterfalls and a fountain on one end of the greensward of the property wherein services for the church are currently held. There is ample parking on the property, in fact we have had over 100 people at one time participating in activities at the location and there have been no problems with the parking. Should we be holding additional events of that nature “porta-johns” can be rented on a basis of one porta-john to every 50 people in attendance (which is the septic industry standard). The septic system on the property is rated for three homes, so is more than adequate to accommodate current and projected needs. Currently there are two phone lines into the property with another wired-in that only needs to be activated if another phone line is required. Counseling sessions and small group meetings are currently either conducted outside in the Serenity Garden or, in inclement weather, in the Delaney’s living room. The driveway on the property is a large “U” shaped driveway with both ends of the “u” intersecting with Mill Creek Road and with parking spaces on each side on the driveway in several places. Further, one part of the U can be used as a private driveway so that other residents in the area are not bothered by the comings and goings of scheduled clients. Finally, it should be noted that the current Landlord, Larry Hale (see business contact sheet) has granted approval for the building of the structure. Mr. Hale’s approval for the construction is greatly appreciated by the Center. There is adequate room for growth at the current location for at least five years. It is planned to build an addition onto the existing mobile home, a separate structure with the dimensions of 16x30. This open room would allow for church services or group meetings during inclement weather and would allow for adequate space for the administrative offices of the church. The structure would actually be free standing and butt-up against the existing mobile home in such a manner as to allow one to pass from one to the other through a door of the mobile home into the new structure. Cosmetically, from the outside, the structure would appear to be joined to the mobile home; however, the structure will be free standing with juncture to the existing structure through flexible flashings in order to allow for shifting of the mobile home. The structure would be heated by a wood stove and from limited shared heat from the central heating system of the mobile home through the opened door way. We are currently gathering bids from local contractors to get the structure “dry” and the staff and volunteers of Black Rose Spiritual Center will finish the inside. Please see the attached floor plan of the proposed structure. E. Suppliers Most of Black Rose Spiritual Center’s services are intellectual in nature. Our primary printer is Professional Impressions for such services as letterhead, business cards, etc. There are at least 10 other professional printers within a one hour radius of our location. Printing of intellectual material is usually conducted either in house or a local copy center such as Mail Boxes, Etc. There are several such copy centers in the Bitterroot Valley. Office and administrative supplies are purchased through various office supply agencies such as Viking Office Supplies or Staples, along with discount suppliers such as Costco. For our candle making supplies we use several different suppliers including but not limited to: Candles and Wax, The Craft Cave, and Alberta Bee Supply (for 100% beeswax). Another supply used quite frequently is sand and silicates for the sand candles and those are readily available from several “sand and gravel” or home improvement stores in the Valley. Due to location we currently purchase through Donaldson’s in Hamilton. To date we have had no problem with our suppliers. It is standard practice at Black Rose Spiritual Center to obtain a minimum of three price quotes or bids before purchasing to ensure we obtain as low a price as possible. |
| F. Recordkeeping Policies and Procedures Black Rose Spiritual Center will be utilizing the commercial software “Quicken” for its accounting base supplemented with spreadsheet application from MicroSoft Excel. The program provides a daily income/expense ledger along with inventory control reports, pay roll processing, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and the option of printing financial status for daily, monthly, quarterly, or annual reports. The bookkeeping activities are performed by the Lead Clergy with input and oversight by the Second Clergy who acts as the Secretary/Treasurer. Under provisions of the By-Laws and direction of the Board of Directors the books of the Center are to be audited at a minimum of annually. G. Billing and Collection Policies and Procedures Black Rose spiritual Center operates under a payment received at the time services rendered basis. However, as we are a spiritual based organization, we may from time to time extend a payment plan to clients on an individual basis. In cases where this occurs a payment contract will be executed with the client who specifies payment amounts and the dates the payments will be due. Accounts receivable will be monitored and aged on a monthly basis. The Order reserves the right to either waive fees due or balances due or accept in-kind contributions in lieu of payment if an extreme financial hardship can be proven on the part of the customer, although it is intended to be the exception rather than the rule. It should be noted Black Rose Spiritual Center is currently negotiating with NPC to be able to accept credit cards for their services. Black Rose Spiritual Center will charge a $25.00 bounced check fee. Checks will only be accepted from within the Ravalli County area. Other clients will be required to pay by cash or credit card. This provision allows Black Rose Spiritual Center at least the opportunity to track down the individual and make every effort to collect the funds from an NSF check. IV. THE FINANCIAL PLAN A. Historical Financial Statements Black Rose Spiritual Center is in its infancy and does not have any historical financial statements to submit for review. However, as they are standing as guarantors on the note, the personal income tax returns of Dr. and Rev. Delaney for the years 1999, 2000 and 20001 are supplied for your information. Black Rose Spiritual Center has applied for recognition under 501(c)(3) status and the Statement of Revenue and Expense supplied with its’ IRS Form 1023 application dated February 21, 2002 which has been attached. The small discrepancies between the projections for the IRS Form 1023 and this plan can easily be explained through the “evolution” of the business as the business has been implemented since that document was produced. B. Current Balance Sheet Attached hereto is an estimated itemized Balance Sheet. The following is a summary of that Balance Sheet: Assets: 20,449.00 Liabilities: 15,000.00 ======================= Equity: 5,449.00 Our current checking account information is as follows: Black Rose Spiritual Center Farmers State Bank Checking Account No.: 4401655 (new account) balance $49 Further attached hereto is a financial data sheet on Dr. and Rev. Delaney for your review and information. It should be noted that all assets of the Center have been donated by the Delaneys and that is reflected in their personal financial statement through either increase in debt or deduction from their personal asset listing. c. Pricing Strategy, Gross Profit Margin Black Rose Spiritual Center began its pricing strategy by conducting several surveys for pricing of similar or like services it offers in the local area and on the internet. Then operating costs were computed using standard accounting practices. Once operating costs were computed a minimum profit margin was built in. Then prices were set for the individual “legs” (clergical, new-age, booth sales, and e-commerce) to reflect Black Rose Spiritual Center’s appropriate target place in the individual markets. Please see the attached brochure for our current price list of many of our services. Although our primary goal is the spiritual health and well being of the community, we must operate in the secular world. With that in mind we have developed pricing strategies which conform to the standard cost of goods and services subtracted from sales to equal the gross profit margin with the new-age and pastoral counseling services of the Black Rose Spiritual Center. The Center has based its financial strategies on pricing and overhead without consideration of the other income avenues available to it as a church and a non-profit organization including direct and in-kind donations, church membership fees, booth sales, speaking engagements, grants, e-commerce, or any of the clergical services with the exception of pastoral counseling. Although other income avenues exist, it is projected that the pastoral and new-age services will be the sole income for consideration of the projected monthly operating costs as outlined below. The entire financial plan and financial projections are based on that premise. It was decided to take that track to allow a comfortable margin within the plan for leeway should the new- age/spiritual counseling services not be able to provide income to cover all of the following. It should be noted that many standard business expenses such as utilities (heat and electric) and rent are not required as they are being donated by the founders. Telephone is included as Black Rose Spiritual Center plans to put in a “Business” status line as opposed to the secondary current personal line in the Delaney home. This will allow Black Rose Spiritual Center the availability of low priced yellow page listings and a listing in the white pages and Yellow Pages (first year of listing would be 2003) of local phone directories. NPC (credit card proc.) $ 75.00 Insurance $ 200.00 Vehicle Expenses $ 100.00 Payroll Expenses $2,400.00 Other Expenses $ 425.00 Phone $ 100.00 Miscellaneous $ 200.00 ======= Total Monthly Expenses: $3,200.00 – Costs of Goods and Services* * The $3,200 figure exceeds the actual costs per month (see cash flow projections of $2,380 on the average for 2002. The additional costs are meant to cover the ever-present unplanned expenses. This figure is appropriate to use at this time because the services being billed (new age and pastoral counseling) have very little cost associated to them other than standard overhead. It is projected that Dr. Delaney will be billed at a standard rate of $60.00 per hour. Reverend Delaney will be billed at a standard rate of $35.00 per hour. The minimum rate for counseling services (in order to be able to provide our services to those not only in spiritual but financial need) will be billed at $15.00 per hour regardless of the counselor performing the service. The discount rate will not be published or advertised and will be kept to a minimum of 20% of clients at any one time. Once our marketing plan has been enacted and advertising has begun, it is believed that Black Rose Spiritual Center will be able to bill a minimum of 15 hours per week for Dr. Delaney and 5 hours per week for Reverend Delaney (note: all Reverend Delaney’s times is volunteer time and incurs no payroll liability for the center). This would result in the following: Dr. total number of billable hours – 60 Rev. total number of billable hours – 20 Dr. standard rate billable hours – 48 Rev. standard rate billable hours – 16 Dr. discounted rate billable hours – 12 Rev. discounted rate billable hours – 4 $60 (x48) = $2,880 – total income of Dr. standard rate $35 (x16) = $ 560 – total income of Rev. standard rate $15 (x16) = $ 240 – total income at discount rate ======= $3,680 – TOTAL sales $3,680 – total sales $ 480 – GPM $3,200 – cost of goods sold /$3,680 – total sales ===== ===== $ 480 – gross profit margin 13.04% GPM per month D. Break-even Analysis Black Rose Spiritual Center’s total fixed costs for a year are estimated to be approximately $35,000. The average sales price per unit of counseling is $46.00 (3680/80=46) per hour. The costs of supplying services are essentially the fixed costs for the year or $35,000. Hence, in order to break even under 760 hours in a year (or 63 hours in a month, 17 hours less than the 80 hours a month average projected) to break-even. The projected break-even point is well achievable when considering the “low-end” estimate figures used above. As an additional financial buffer other income avenues available and planned by the Center have not been included as it is planned for the new age and pastoral counseling services to be the financial back-bone of the enterprise. E. Projected Cash Flow Spreadsheet Please see attached Projected Cash Flow Spreadsheets for the year 2002, 2003, and 2004 for Black Rose Spiritual Center. F. Forecasting Assumptions a. Except for minimal amounts received from booth sales listed in the “other Income” category o the Cash Flow Spreadsheets, the financial basis of this plan only incorporates that income for Black Rose Spiritual Center that is garnered from it’s new age and pastoral counseling services. It does not include income from any clergical services such as weddings, funerals, baptisms, etc. Nor does it account for any income through donations, grants, or membership fees. This financial plan has been designed to ensure that the Black Rose Spiritual Center will be self-sustaining and ensures that the Center has not overly estimated it’s income generating capabilities and has some maneuvering room if it has. b. When computing billable hours for Dr. Delaney and Reverend Delaney, a low range of the possible billing hours was used in order to allow for time for the Black Rose Spiritual Center to build a central clientele in the first year of operation. Even allowing for time for her other duties, it is not unreasonable to believe that Dr. Delaney will be providing for as many as 30 billable hours per work, thus nearly trebling the income potential indicated by these computations. Hence, there is tremendous room for additional income in the new age and spiritual counseling arenas. c. It should be specifically noted that income from the planned web site has not been included in the income projections in any way although costs have been. However, through an aggressive web marketing and advertising campaign for our full range of services, the potential of being able to garner billable hours and other forms of additional income through the web site is quite high but very uncertain until proven. d. A small amount of income each month is indicated from the booth sales. Booth sales do correspond with increased tourist and market trade and venues during the late spring (May) through early fall (Sept) months. During those months there are multiple activities the booth can participate in on a weekly basis, in fact double-booking is possible were in we could have a booth participating at two locations during the same timeframe. Hence we can reach a wider portion of our market. e. In recognition of her training, expertise, and service Dr. Delaney will be paid a minimum salary of $1,800 per month. She is schedule to receive a nominal raise in salary in January 2004. This salary increase is predicated on the financial health and well being of the Black Rose Spiritual Center. At no time will Dr. Delaney receive an increase in salary when it would put the Center at financial rise. f. Reverend Delaney is a medically retired veteran and, in light of his medical condition, is unable to hold employment. However, he will continue to be an integral part of the Center within the constraints of his disability on a volunteer basis. As shown on the personal income statement Reverend Delaney receives three different retirement or disability checks each month so will not need to rely on the Center for income. g. It should be noted that it is listed in the organizing documents of the Center that all incomes are the property of the Center and not that of the individual who actually performed the service. For example, if Reverend Delaney were to perform a wedding ceremony, the recommended donation of $125.00 would be the property of Black Rose Spiritual Center and not Reverend Delaney as an individual. This rules applies to all volunteers and staff of the Black Rose Spiritual Center. h. Black Rose Spiritual Center has not obtained insurance as of yet. However, the most comprehensive quote received was in the $1000 - $1500 a year range for rates on the size and needs of this enterprise. That is reflected in the Liabilities portion of the balance sheet. We are currently negotiating with Farmers’ Alliance for insurance coverage including but not limited to: Worker’ s Compensation, liability, property, business interruption, automotive (on the 1986 Subaru), home office, and assets. Further, it should be noted that the proposed structure will be covered by an additional rider to the insurance on the existing mobile home. Finally, if reasonably affordable, the center will obtain a “Key Person” policy on Dr. Delaney. i. Income projections have been capped at the minimally projected amount of $3,680 through the cost projections. It is believe that our services will be more in use than this current projection in three years, but until the theory has been proven the founders prefer to take a conservative outlook for their projections. j. Although it is projected for the Center to open it’s doors with an appropriately aggressive marketing campaign the business will be in operation for four full months before the projected income of $3,680 is programmed to be received. The following shows how the income potential has been gradually brought up to projects. April – preparation & construction - 0 projected income/0 employees May – grand opening - 0 projected income June – Operating (23 billable hours) - 600 projected income (50%)July – Operating (50 billable hours) - 1,840 projected income (75%)Aug – Operating (75 billable hours) - 2,760 projected income (100%)Sept - Operating (100 billable hours) - 3,680 projected income k. As a non-profit organization with a base theory of serving mankind it may seem strange that there are no deductions in the cash flow analysis for such things as charitable contributions or costs of charitable works. The Center understands that we can only give that which we have to give. Again, for the purposes of this business plan, we have set our plan so that the center core of our finances takes care of the operating costs and any other required payments. The additional sources of income which are essentially everything we do but new age and pastoral counseling: ceremonies, c-commerce, etc. will be the source of funds for the costs of our charitable works if funds are not needed for operating costs. Hence, no deductions in the cash flow analysis have been made for these costs as they will be borne by other funding sources. l. Financial disbursements will being in late March or early April. m. Funds received from the load will be used in accordance with this loan proposal. For an itemized listing of the immediate payouts planned, please see the Source and Use of Funds section below. n. Construction of the new structure on the premises would be projected for completion in time to enable the center to officially “open its doors” on May 1, 2002. |
| G. Risk Analysis and Alternative Plans of Action Again, even though it will be our business to care for the spiritual health and well being of our congregation, clients, and the community at large, we realize we must operate in a business atmosphere where operating in the black allows you to stay in business. Hence, we have several alternative plans in order to garner income for the Black Rose Spiritual Center. As previously used, we will look at each “leg” of our base structure. 1. Clergical: Should sales of “billable hours” drop increased marketing and advertising will be implemented, along with increased volunteer involvement in the local community. Target markets (pet owners, veterinarians, pet stores, animal feed stores, etc. for pet blessings; beauty salons, book stores, women’s apparel stores, etc. for weddings and bridal services; funeral homes, hospitals, etc. for separation and grief and/or funeral services, etc.) can be specifically directed. 2. New Age/Spiritual: Black Rose Spiritual Center is pleased to offer a wide range of new age/spiritual services. In order to boost sales in this area we could do business generating activities such as contract with a local bookstore or beauty salon to do tarot readings, or do a “Dr. Nikki” column for local newspaper or radio. Advertising could be easily changed and slanted to more appropriately reach the market, additional methods can be learned to expand those offered. In this venue we could also raise funds through giving classes on a wide range of subjects such as “Basic Candle Majick With The Saints” to “Palmistry 101” or “How to Make Authentic Flatbread”. 3. Booth Sales: As the booth will be operating a minimum of four times a month it will be fairly easy to keep up with trends and what sells and what doesn’t. Many of the finished products can be melted down and remade into yet another if they do not sell in their original form. In the “craft fair” market something as simple as changing how your display looks can make a big difference in how your sales go. There are a wide range of adjustments or changes that can be made to correct a “dead sales” condition for the booth including changing the display, changing the items sold, requesting a booth or table in a different location, participating in other shows, selling the candles on commission through one of several commission stores in the area, etc. Dr. Delaney has several years of experience in the “booth circuit” through having her own craft business for several year, and many years working as a volunteer for other non-profit organizations and agencies, hence she has a good understanding of how the small things can make a big difference in this business venue. 4. E-Commerce: Again, this is an area that lends itself to immediate “fix.” Such things as adjusting the web site, re-listing on search engines used by the target audience, changing verbiage on how the web-site is listed, doing “virtual live-chats” through a web service portal such as Yahoo or MSN, or joining additional web rings can make the difference between a “winning” and a “loosing” website. Should difficulties begin to rise there are a wide range of volunteer and professional business consulting agencies such as SCORE, AARP, the Small Business Development Center mentor program and many others from which we can seek advice for a “fresh look” at the situation and corrective actions that can be taken to prevent/remedy the situation. Finally, this business plan, along with the other organizing documents, provides many ways to track progress and ensure that the non-profit remains a viable and fiscally healthy entity so it can accomplish its goal and stick to its mission of serving mankind. With all the leeway built into the solid business plan it is believed that many of the risks associated with new businesses will be minimized through solid planning and implementation. |
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