Advice for Starting a Small Online Business or Licensing an Idea

[jcor4321sr]

I’m looking for advice regarding an idea I have for a gag gift. I have a name, a design, a prototype and ideas for marketing, multiple uses and multiple possible demographics. It combines two similar products that I think prove there is a market for it while remaining unique.
I was referred to someone who facilitates licensing ideas to companies who produce and sell things like this but have not met with them yet. The idea seems simple but I have not started a business before. The item is a single piece of rubber that could be made with an open face mold. The website should be simple as well since it would only be this one item with a few variations and availability in 25+ colors.
Right now I’m just looking for input on where to start, manufacturing it myself or finding manufacturers to make it on demand or licensing the idea to someone else. I also need to explore stronger materials. I am thinking thermoplastic rubber. The prototype is made from craft store silicone I poured in a urethane mold.

[Chris Pascale]

The only thing I can think of from my couple years working in a factory is to call up plants that deal with rubber, or perhaps toys.

Maybe head over to a Spencer's Gifts and see where certain things are made, and also test those products to see if you like the qualities.

[WayDownSouth]

I’m looking for advice regarding an idea I have for a gag gift. I have a name, a design, a prototype and ideas for marketing, multiple uses and multiple possible demographics. It combines two similar products that I think prove there is a market for it while remaining unique.
I was referred to someone who facilitates licensing ideas to companies who produce and sell things like this but have not met with them yet. The idea seems simple but I have not started a business before. The item is a single piece of rubber that could be made with an open face mold. The website should be simple as well since it would only be this one item with a few variations and availability in 25+ colors.
Right now I’m just looking for input on where to start, manufacturing it myself or finding manufacturers to make it on demand or licensing the idea to someone else. I also need to explore stronger materials. I am thinking thermoplastic rubber. The prototype is made from craft store silicone I poured in a urethane mold.

I literally just made a post here https://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/entrepreneurship/non-alcoholic-mixer-product-idea/msg3247396/#msg3247396, and I recommended licensing the idea. You should do the same, license it. However, if you have the know-how, cut of the person that facilitates this process and you'll see much more profit. If you're not resourceful enough, the facilitator or middle-man may be a necessary evil.

Good luck!