CommuKnitty Stash – Creativity the Key to Success 

It is not just the name of this new business, “CommuKnitty Stash” that is creative, it is also their unique location.

For many business owners the capital costs of building, and or leasing, at a good location are the biggest hurdle to overcome when starting a new business. Jules Joy and Sarah Browngoetz, the proud owners of the “CommuKnitty Stash”, were creative and
thought outside of what most business owners might consider “the box.”   In fact, these owners were so creative they thought themselves right into a 16ft Yurt.

Jules Joy and Sarah Browngoetz started the “CommunKnitty Stash” as a result of their passion for a hobby.  Their new business started last February out of a mutual attraction to knitting.

The business owners met with the Alaska SBDC regional director and discussed financing for the capital needed to purchase inventory.  Having a good selection of colors and quality yarn was very important to their customers. The director informed the
clients about “Community Express Loans”.

The SBDC director also helped the new owners by introducing and assisting them with “Pitch then Plan”, and online business planning tool. This tool is available on-line for SBDC clients and in particular assists new business owners do financial projec-
tions which are then converted into goals.

With additional inventory and selection the customers have a greater selection of colors of yarn and knitting products.  In fact, the business is quickly outgrowing the 16ft Yurt and will soon be moving across the parking lot for the busy tourist season to a 20ft Yurt.