Surfing in the countryside

Imagine being able to surf in the middle of the countryside. You don't need to go to the ocean or on a cruise ship to surf (wave machine). A new wave machine has been invented, albeit in a prototype format that produces waves that potentially could run for as long as 2 miles if there is enough space. I am just imagining the business potential. They are currently looking for investors to set one of these wave machines up. I can imagine a water park or skateboard park with a wet side so people can surf. Mr Hurley should seriously look into this, imagine selling surfboards and surf gear in Nebraska. Watch the video and make up your own mind. Click to watch video

Source of Finance

Just when you thought that you have covered all sources of finance, this story surfaces. You have been taught in class that Entrepreneurs usually start up their businesses through the Bank of Mum and Dad, the help of friends and family, loans, selling of assets, equity, credit cards and so on. Well a new concept has been doing the rounds where people pledge money to the business for a a non financial return or equity. This could include access to the various development stages of the product, one of the first to be produced and therefore a collectors item, VIP passes etc. Read article

A great read

I love to read business style books and this is one that is by far the best one I have ever read. It offers insights into culture, leadership styles, the dos and dont's, good decisions, bad decisions and much more. If you are a Business Studies student then this is a book for you. There is so much material in it that you can add to your exam questions, especially with regards to Leadership and Culture.

Business Stripped Bare

Combining invaluable advice with the remarkable and candid inside stories of Virgin's greatest achievements, as well as some of its setbacks, Business Stripped Bare is a dynamic, inspirational and truly original guide to success in business and in life. This book is aimed far and wide and whether you are an executive, an entrepreneur or are just starting out, Richard strips business down to show how you can succeed and make a difference This entertaining read will be an invaluable business guide for years to come. For more information click here.

Angry Birds

Angry Birds has become a phenomenon. I remember first seeing it been played on my friends iPad, it was addictive and a lot of fun. Since then it is everywhere. There are so many different version of the game, merchandise - tshirts, lunchboxes, stationary and now there is talk of a TV series. With 200 million monthly users, the numbers and potential is simply mind boggling. The company and concept was set up by 3 students who entered a competition hosted by Nokia and Hewlett-Packard CO. Are you a subscriber and if it was your company, what other opportunities would you be considering for Angry Birds? Read here.

Patent war

This is a great story for those studying Business Studies. Two massive companies (Samsung and Apple) going head to head due to patent infringements and licenses. The ruling could effect the companies and potentially our choices of handset in the future. This story is worth following and reading around. To all entrepreneurs and businesses, it is worth taking note of Intellectual Property and the like. Read here.

Fashion, practicality or innovation?

Apple are a great brand. They are trendy and innovative. They have a huge following worldwide and in a way I am  but not totally surprised when I saw this story in the news.  A man loves his iPod to the extent that he has incorporated it into him through having magnets surgically implanted into his arm so that he can wear his iPod like a watch. Thereby having his iPod with him at all times amongst a back drop of artwork. It is different, it does look pretty cool and iPod will get a lot of exposure out of this. No doubt the tattoo artist will get a lot of exposure for his work and lots of goodies from Apple. I would like to see how he gets on with security when he decides to fly somewhere, or puts his hands in his pocket near his credit card. Will these magnets ruin the magnetic strip in the card thereby ending up with a useless card? I have read somewhere that people are having logos tattooed or painted on themselves for cash. marketing is getting creative, if you get chance read the blog about the houses being painted bright colors. It will be interesting to see what deals this guy will get. Have a look for yourself.

Carroll Shelby

Since moving over to the USA, I have seen a number of Mustangs and have heard the name Shelby.  An interesting man with a great story and legacy. I am sure he will be missed. Life is so short. What are you going to do with your life and how are you going to be remembered? Read about Carroll Shelby.