Challenges of Launching a Pickleball Paddle Company: How We Spent 60% of Our Budget
Two friends, Kathleen Elkins and her roommate, decided to take on the challenge of starting an eCommerce business in the spring of 2023. With a budget of $10,000, they set out to launch a pickleball paddle company. However, their startup costs have proven to be higher than expected, with 60% of their budget already spent.
Their expenses included fees to the USA Pickleball association for certification, prototyping costs, graphic design fees, and packaging expenses. The duo also invested in a business banking platform, Mercury, to manage their finances.
As of early November 2024, their checking account balance has dwindled to just under $4,000, and they have yet to place their first major inventory order. Despite the challenges, Elkins and her friend remain determined to see their business succeed.
Their journey serves as a reminder that starting a business can come with unexpected costs and challenges. Stay tuned to see if they can turn their pickleball paddle company into a profitable venture.
