Young entrepreneur wins Development Corp. Business Plan Competition

By Bob Steenson, bsteenson@charlescitypress.com 

A young man with a wedding party and other entertainment business is the winner of the Charles City Area Development Corp.’s 2018 Business Plan Competition.

Tad Barry, of Charles City, received a check for $2,500 at the Area Development Corp.’s monthly meeting Wednesday afternoon.

His business, TB Continued Entertainment, offers music and master of ceremonies hosting for weddings, corporate parties, Christmas parties and more, Barry said. He had been providing DJ services for non-profit events throughout the community and around the area, “and I decided to make money doing it as opposed to just giving myself away,” he said.

The business plan competition looks for startup or existing Floyd County or Nashua businesses that want to expand, add a new product line or new process, and offers business guidance in addition to the cash.

“The key to a successful business plan is to know your project inside and out,” said Tim Fox, Area Development Corp. executive director. “This simplifies the business plan writing process and virtually makes it second nature to write the plan.”

Being a successful businessperson requires a lot of hard work and preparation, he said.

“You should also realize that it is oftentimes much simpler to make or sell a product or service than it is to manage a business,” Fox said.

Barry said there is a need for his services in the area.

“I’m going to focus a lot on weddings,” he said. “There’s a need not only in this community, but I work a lot in New Hampton and there’s not much for wedding DJs.”

Barry said there are plenty of nice venues, such as the Youth Enrichment Center, Gilbert Sale Yard, the Wild Wood clubhouse and Cedar Ridge clubhouse.

“There’s plenty of venues around town but not enough wedding DJs,” he said.

In addition to music he will offer games such as trivia or games themed on popular television game shows such as “The Family Feud” or “The Newlywed Game.”

“This money will go toward equipment, some marketing as well, and a website, so it’s very much appreciated,” Barry said. “This will go a long way in this endeavor.”

Barry said he will continue to work to help the community.

“I’m still committed to helping our non-profits and doing some things that’s kind of an in-kind contribution,” he said. “However, I wanted to invest in equipment and become a little more multi-faceted.”

Area Development Corp. President Frank Blaine said the organization staff and directors were available to work with applicants in devising a business plan, including providing critical review.

“We seek to nurture new or early stage business from the ground up” said Blaine.