- 11-Sep-2014
- Consumer Goods
- Services
Created on the Mountain
Abstract
Created on the Mountain (COTM) is a unique business for creative people focused on the talent of local North Carolina Mountain artisans and farmers. COTM capitalizes on the creativity of its Creative Partners (Partners), giving voice to their story, and the spirit of the mountains, which serves as the core of a recognizable and highly marketable brand. The business is based in Ashe County, N.C., founded by two rural natives experienced in business development and management, and dedicated to building an economic base for creative people so they may generate a sustainable wage, remain in this inspiring rural setting, and maximize their creative talents.
Video
Original YouTube URL: Open
Additional Questions
Who is your customer?
Our customer base is two-tiered. We promote our marketing tools and services to creative people, use their creative products and services as the basis for the Created on the Mountain brand. We then market to consumers who value and appreciate hand-made products, creative talents, or unique services.
What problem does this idea/product solve or what market need does it serve?
Creative people generally do not market themselves well. Their talents and energy are used to create. We offer a solution that allows them to continue to create, while earning a living while working at what they are passionate about. This service also provides an important resource in a rural community; it builds creative capital into a segment of the economic base. It takes something of value in the community and uses it to build sustainable incomes.
What attributes will make this idea/product successful? Why do you believe that those features will create success?
We start with something that is of value, that people appreciate. We use the stories of creative people and the unique community within which they work, to market what is of value. The marketing strategy makes the effort successful. It connects creative people with those who value creativity, and it does it in a very dynamic, personal, and comprehensive way. The mountain creativity is not longer isolated, but shared in ways that effectively connects to consumers.
Explain how you (your team) will execute to make this idea/product successful? What gives you (your team) an advantage over others already in the market or new to this market?
We know and can access our mountain creative community, and we know how to capture the creative essence of their stories and the inspirational place they live. No one does what we do. We are capturing the story as part of the marketing effort, delivering it in a very personal way using videography, and providing year-round access to consumers through our on-line store, social media and events.