Sustainable Businesses in a Diminishing Market

We are moving to a point in time in the US where profits will be shared over several hi-tech countries.  China is making a bid as is India as is the Euro.  This means that the profit margins for American companies will become thinner over this shared space.  Oil is currently the energy that fuels this hi-tech world.  As supplies start to dwindle, how will this affect that already thin profit margin?

As we move forward in America today, how do we remain busy (and happy) and be productive to the greater good.

• what do we need to make us happy
• what do we need to get by
• what is work
• what is money

-will discuss some of the sustainable projects i think have worked in PDX (and raised consciousness)

• kboo
• city repair
• rebuilding center
• free geek
• many of the land cooperatives (Tryon Life, ...)

- will discuss worker-owned cooperatives

• how big is manageable
• how do you sell yourself
• how do you know if you are succeeding

- will discuss grants

• how do you start
• what are the activities involved
• what is the timeline against priorities

- will discuss small for-profit business

• what is the best legal entity for your federal tax id
• how do you know if you are succeeding
• what are some ideas that work