Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I am in the process of starting a new kayak company with an innovative design. I am an engineer but not a kayak designer, so I need someone to help me with that element. I want someone who works as an independent contractor and is knowledgable enough to help make the design easily manufacturable on a large scale.

Does anyone know where to look for someone like this?

Thanks,
Ryan

Ryan
NoBucks, is a kayak builder. He might be able to point you in the right direction.

Thanks a lot. I messaged him. Please let me know if you think of anything else. My guess is that I`ll have a lot of "not interesteds" before getting a "ounds good:.

If I were you, I would become an expert on what the market is like today. I know you want to do something different, but it gives you a credible platform from which to speak from.
Imagine making contact with that perfect designer. The fact that you can carry on an intelligent conversation about the kayak industry will be critical. A good designer just isn`t going to have any fun working with you if you`re all green, no matter how much money you throw at him/her.

For more concrete steps,  I wold buy every magazine on kayaking I could find, and visit all the forums too. Visit trade shows. The biggest is twice a year in Utah. Its extremely difficult to get into, but you`ll learn a lot.

Talking to a manufacture, might not be the best avenue. The nicest way, would be to get to know a `famous` kayaker, and get them talking about design. These people might be the link you need.  
Good Luck.

Thank you for your comments. I`m planning on attending the summer market in August. I have done quite a bit of research on the market and designed the first prototype with a group of 4 engineers, so I have some understanding. I am no expert, but I am learning more and more everyday.

Fantastic!
This isn`t a lead to a designer, but there is some footage of the manufacturing of a modern kayak on the Canadian TV show "How it`s Made". I can`t find the video, but if you get the show, you might be able to catch it when it comes around again.
Go to the link and look under subject.

One of my former industrial design students is an avid sailer - he would probably be interested in this. Please send me details.

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A good idea is a good idea NOW![sup]TM[/sup]

ethnicomm inc. | sales | marketing | web | strategy consulting

Just wondering what is the latest on this?  Did you get my suggestions for small boat designers?  Looking forward to seeing your design go forward!

 

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Joel F.
http://www.blackdogkayaks.com