The Time Machine | Application Preview
The Time Machine is seeking government grants to secure a non-residential lease and cover initial repairs, maintenance, and inventory purchases, including shelving and display equipment. This funding will support the startup phase, helping to manage rental and utility costs until the business becomes profitable.
The business strategy revolves around robust online marketing through popular platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Discord, and Reddit. Regular updates will feature inventory highlights, product unboxings, and sales promotions to engage with potential customers.
The rationale for funding approval lies in the gap left by the closure of major toy retailers like Toys R Us. This has created an opportunity for a niche market targeting collectors and enthusiasts who seek a diverse selection of toys, collectibles, and games that aren’t readily available at mainstream stores. The business aims to provide quicker access to products compared to online retailers, which often have lengthy shipping times.
In terms of competition, The Time Machine will face businesses such as Tosche Station, Echo Base, and Third Eye Comics. However, its competitive advantage stems from a commitment to stocking unique and hard-to-find items, informed by market trends and customer preferences. Additionally, the business plans to collaborate with independent artisans on Etsy to offer exclusive in-store products, further distinguishing itself from competitors.
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General Information
Business Registration Number: 10-923664224F-001
Location: West Springfield, VA, United States
Length of Operation: 1-5
Number of Employees: 1-10 Employees
Annual Gross Income: $100k to $250k
Annual Gross Expense: Less than $100k
Open to Loans: YES
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Funding Usage
We plan on securing a non-residential lease, initial repairs and maintenance as well as initial inventory and equipment such as shelving and display purchases. This funding will assist us with reaching our dreams of owning and running our own business and help us with the rental and utility payments until we begin receiving profits and revenue.
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Business Plan
We plan to advertise on a new business website and social media to the fullest extent. We will be starting a Tiktok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Discord and Reddit profile for the business where we will be uploading information, pictures, videos multiple times a day including inventory selection, item unboxing and sales. With the closing of large brand toy stores such as Toy R Us, it has left retail stores such as Target and Walmart to try to fill its tremendous shoes. However, they are limited to a mainstream market which is limited leaving niche consumers to seek online purchasing. Our business will be targeting collectors and true aficionados of toys, collectibles and games allowing a greater option of items for purchase outside of online retailers that take anywhere from 1 - 3 weeks to ship as well as outside of businesses that are cornering the market causing the decline in mom-and-pop stores.
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Self Identified Competition
Tosche Station Echo Base Third Eye Comics Our competitors stock refurbished, old and new merchandise as well as similar merchandise that can be found throughout the area. By keeping a keen eye on big business such as Target and Walmart as well as small businesses such as our competitors, we will be sure to stock unique items that customers want and are forced to seek online in order to complete their purchase. We have also been in touch with independent product makers that sell their products on Etsy for the possibility of having one-of-a-kind items to be sold in store.
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Contact Applicant
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