In some areas of the country, boats are the king. People spend much of their time on the water and talk in nautical terms. Their whole year centers around the boating season and they can't wait until it is time to pull the boat out of dry dock for the first time every year.

For these people, buying a new boat is not something they might do; it is something they absolutely must do. Building these boats can be very damaging to the environment unless there is an alternative to the regular manufacturers available to them.

What skills are necessary?

Obviously being mechanically minded would be a must for this type of career. Knowing how to build a boat as well as ways to make the general boat design even better would be a plus. In addition, knowing how to employ solar or wind power during the process makes this a much greener career. Finally, a love of boats would be a major asset.

What type of background is necessary?

In addition to the mechanical skills listed above, it would be best if there is some sailing in the business owner's background because people are more confident in buying a boat from a fellow sailor. Remember, to most people sailing is a way of life, not simply a weekend hobby.

What types of licenses, registrations or certifications are necessary?

Having a manufacturer's license is necessary in most parts of the country but you may need others as well. It would also be a good idea to consider having the business certified as "green" if you are going to advertise that as a major selling point for the business.

Who is the target audience?

Boat buyers who would prefer to buy from a more eco-conscious builder would be the major component of the market. This might also be the way to get the first time boat buyer who has been reluctant to buy because of eco concerns.

What are the risks?

If you are taking longer to finish a boat, or can only work on a small number of boats at a time, the price that you will need to sell each completed boat for would be higher than what the mass produced boats are being sold for. While there may be a market that would demand green production and more attention to detail, the price that they would be willing to pay for these features might be lower than would be profitable for your company.

What is the market size and market potential?

The limited number of boats you could safely and correctly build in this manner would limit the size of the market. If your boats are exceptional, however, you may find yourself with a waiting list and many people willing to wait for one of your finished products.

Green Entrepreneurship Resources
• *75 Green Businesses You Can Start to Make Money and Make A Difference
• *Finding the Sweet Spot: The Natural Entrepreneur's Guide to Responsible, Sustainable, Joyful Work
• *101 Ways to Turn Your Business Green: The Business Guide to Eco-Friendly Profits
• *Start Your Own Green Business (Start Your Own...)
• *Global Warming Is Good for Business: How Savvy Entrepreneurs, Large Corporations, and Others are Making Money While Saving the Planet
• *The Plot to Save the Planet: How Visionary Entrepreneurs and Corporate Titans Are Creating Real Solutions to Global Warming
• *Starting Green: An Ecopreneur's Guide to Starting a Green Business from Business Plans to Profits