COLUMBIA, S.C. — Opening a business can be frightening even for an adult. But, for one local teen who took that leap of faith seven months ago, it's paid off.
Lawson Taylor is the 14-year-old owner of LT Toys & Stuff which he opened earlier in 2022. Now it's expanding.
"Doing good! At the last store, like, we had a ton of our customers and clientele we were getting in and people were bringing us a ton of stuff, too," Taylor said
Taylor said most customers still walk in surprised to learn he's the owner.
"A lot of them are pretty surprised or frozen," he added. "A lot of them don't know what to say or they are super pumped for me."
It's a journey that has paid off for him and surprised many others. For many, the first question is how a young entrepreneur even begins.
News19 spoke with Ayesha Driggers, the interim director of Columbia's Office of Business Opportunities about how young entrepreneurs can get a business started.
"One of the largest things they need to do is market research to make sure there is a need for that kind of service or product they want to provide," Driggers said. "Networking is a really crucial part of any small business. Go to different events and share your product or service with the community; so, just make sure you get out there."
She added for those interested in market research to call her office and utilize options such as Richland County Library for assistance. She also said forming a business plan is essential.
"Kind of establish what the needs are, how you're going to meet those needs," Driggers said. "What does the financing look like, what kind of funding do you need to get started with your business? And then you go to what permits and such are needed."
Driggers and Taylor had a similar message for those considering opening a business.
"Have a passion for whatever that business is," said Driggers.
It's no surprise Taylor agrees.
"If you really have a passion for it, then I guess just go for it," he said.
For those looking to start a business, the Columbia Chamber has a list of various programs to help budding entrepreneurs.