In Conversation with Greg Ayers

The most recent cohorts of CenterState Up Start's Start It! classes are adopting a new model in an effort to reach new people and make entrepreneurship more accessible. This round of classes are being hosted at community partner sites in specific Syracuse neighborhoods, the North Side Learning Center and Blueprint 15. By having partner organizations involved, it creates an opportunity to connect with people who may not have otherwise enrolled in a location where residents already feel comfortable. 

The cohort at Blueprint 15 is led by Greg Ayers, CenterState CEO's Business Advisor. Ahead of the Blueprint 15 cohort's graduation, Ayers discussed what makes Start It! classes work and why the cohort he's teaching is special. 

What makes Start It a unique and effective program?

Greg Ayers: The Start It program is something that I've kept near and dear to my heart because I was a part of it in the early stages as a student. It provides you with business tools and acumen that you didn't think that you needed.

 This is where the Start It program is the most beneficial. The lessons, presentations and conversations are packed with so much information, for the price and time commitment it’s truly a great experience with an even greater value. I just hope that it's a meaningful experience for the participants.

The potential impact that these individuals could have on their community if/when they launch is huge. This action requires the support of the community in which they live as well as the whole city, county and sometimes the region depending on the industry. I tell them don't be afraid to step outside the box and shine your light on the world. With the influence of social media, you never know how your next customer will find you. You know people travel the world for food and other services that they have on various social media platforms.

Lastly, I want to thank the staff at Blueprint 15 for doing a wonderful job selecting the individuals who are a part of this cohort. I will say that this experience is always fulfilling, and I couldn't be happier about the dynamics of the group. Being able to connect with new and existing small businesses is such a cool experience.

You find that that even outside of the instructors, the participants are willing to help each other out. You always find people that are a little bit more advanced in their business development or they might have an established brick-and-mortar business ready. All of a sudden, they're adding their own unique experiences and education to the conversation, and they can provide support that I may not be able to because they live in that neighborhood. Like I previously mentioned, one of the unique things about this program is that we meet all students where they are. While it is a structured curriculum, we're open to modifying and update things based on the needs of the students.

What did you expect from teaching this class before it started, and did that evolve throughout the experience?

GA: This is my fourth time teaching the class, so I didn't have any expectations, but to go in and teach. But it felt different right out of the gate. I felt like I was in a room full of cousins, the dynamics gave off that family feel. The room was loud, everyone was laughing, joking, and carrying on sidebar conversations. I was completely unaware that some of these individuals already had some level of interaction with each other. The fact that everyone is from the same community (Southside), makes this cohort unique.

What is the benefit of teaching in a community space like Blueprint 15?

GA: The benefit is that there is familiarity amongst the participants in the class. This allowed them to gel quickly. The group activities felt more like a competition amongst family sitting down to play a card game. That type of interaction is fun and keeps things exciting.

Classes haven't concluded yet, but has there been a moment in teaching this class that's felt especially fulfilling?

GA: The beauty of these classes, and not just the one at Blueprint 15, is the conversations between existing business owners, side hustlers and those who are just starting out. They’re something great about people sharing their real-world experiences. It gives everyone the space to express so that others can learn and grow.

What is one lesson you hope participants learn from taking part in Start It?

GA: The one lesson that I want them to learn is that starting a business is not easy. It's one of those things that's going to take time, energy, resources and sacrifices. If you're not ready, that's fine. But when you are ready, there's going to be a long somewhat lonely road ahead.

What would your advice be to someone who is thinking about starting a business or starting their entrepreneurial journey?

GA: Make sure you know why you want to start a business. What are you trying to achieve? Is it to end your 9:00 to 5:00, to build generational wealth, to create a legacy for your family? Answer those questions first. From there test the market with a side hustle. If there is traction, do your research, continue to test the market, visit your competitors and work on a business plan. Utilize small business development entities, like CenterState CEO and SBDC to help you refine your plan before you launch. Most founders want to go from A to Z in a second and skip vital steps, take your time, set realistic goals and do your research. The goal is to minimize catastrophic mistakes that could potentially lead to failure.