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profiles: In Focus: Architect Turned Entrepreneur

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In Focus: Architect Turned Entrepreneur

September 19, 2008
Small-business owners, you deserve a moment in the spotlight. In this regular column, we highlight entrepreneurs from all over the U.S. who can answer the question: "What makes you stand out from the crowd?" We know you're proud of your accomplishments — now you can tell the world about them, too.

Jennifer Coleman, founder of CityProwl, answers our questions:

What makes you stand out from the crowd?

Many people pass by downtown Cleveland's hidden architectural jewels without recognizing them. I’m an architect, so I know where to find the city’s amazing buildings. CityProwl helps people see the cities they live in, work in or visit with fresh eyes.

When I started the business, podcasting was just going main stream – I didn’t even own an iPod – but I thought: This is a great way to share information and get people engaged with the unique urban spaces around them.

Jennifer Coleman My name is: Jennifer Coleman
My business is: CityProwl (CityProwl produces downloadable audio walking tours that highlight a city’s culture, neighborhoods, history, architecture, people and the other things that make it unique.)
Industry: Tourism
Location: Cleveland
Year founded: 2006
Number of employees: 1
Web address: www.cityprowl.com

What's the best part about owning your own business?

Calling your own shots. I have a six-year-old and I also run another business, an architectural design firm. Being an entrepreneur gives me the flexibility to give time and energy to all of the things that are priorities in my life.

What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome?

Understanding the technology and developing a business model. It's been challenging in terms of developing revenue streams. Currently, I get hired by neighborhood economic development groups or other organizations to put together tours. Now, I'm working on developing relationships with marketing partners and expanding into other cities, including Pittsburgh, Atlanta, Portland and Minneapolis. I am also talking to hotels about supplying prerecorded tours to guests.

What's the best business advice you can offer?

Follow your interests and follow your gut. Don’t discard your ideas by focusing on the negatives. Try.

Which organization referred you to smSmallBiz's Stand Out?

Key Bank’s small business network, Key4Women.

Are You a Stand Out?
To be considered for this column, please send an email (and a digital headshot!) to Editors@smSmallBiz.com , answering these questions:

My name is:
My business is: (name of business, plus description)
Location:
Year founded:
Number of employees:
Web address:

What makes you stand out from the crowd?
What's the best part about owning your own business?
What's the biggest hurdle you've overcome?
What's the best business advice you can offer?
If a business organization referred you to us, please tell us which one.


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Stand Out: Spa Owner Pampers Underserved Male Clients

Stand Out: This Biz Owner Runs a One-Stop Shop for Real Estate Law

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