Business Spotlight-Boomerpreneur Jean Newell

Due to the economy I was recently faced with the challenge of starting over. When my 35-year real estate career came to an end I, like so many other millions of Americans, had to re-examine my life. I fit right into the age group most likely to be laid off; Boomers (age 47-63), too young to retire, too old to start over and the nest egg has crumbled. What are the options? Living under a bridge? Winning the Lottery? Both had odds I wasn't willing to explore. It seemed so obvious to me. I went back to the basics of American self-reliance? So, without any formal background in business, finance, manufacturing or distribution I decided to "hire myself" and become an entrepreneur/inventor. Everyone said it couldn't be done and I wouldn't be able to survive, much less compete with BIG business. But luckily I didn't listen to them. I combined my creative talents, hobbies and passions, with my business expertise and invented and distributed my own line of innovative products. I successfully marketed my inventions to online stores, gift catalogs, major retail chains and yes even to the coveted electronic retailer QVC. Not only did I prove the Nay Sayers wrong I also proved to myself that anything is possible. I'm now able to share my story, advice and experience with other Boomers who may be facing unemployment. I have partnered with the Small Business Development Center and the Women's Business Center (all part of the US Small Business Administration) offering mentoring and training to aspiring entrepreneurs.