Start:ME Spotlight:

Karl Barham

Organization

Transworld Business Advisors - Atlanta Peachtree

How did you first get interested in Start:ME?

I have a three passions. The first is business and entrepreneurship. I am dedicating my life to helping people pursue their dreams of being their own boss. Second is diversity. I realize that as the demographics of America changes, so should the make up successful small businesses. Small business has been the economic and political drivers in community for hundreds of years. When business ownership reflects the diversity of the community, I believe community thrive and can ensure economic prosperity. The last is mentorship. I have been blessed with many great mentors through out my life. I believe it is my responsibility to pay it forward. If I can help one person be successful in some small way, I feel I am doing my part. I found Start:ME thru my Emory network and knew I had to get involved.

You sat on our selection board this year. What did you learn from taking part in that process?

I enjoyed getting to meet the entrepreneurs and learn about their businesses and why they started. The selection process was realistic. We got varied opinion and I loved the debate people had about who would be a good fit and who was ready.

You've jumped right in as a mentor. What have you really enjoyed working with entrepreneurs on?

I have enjoyed building relationships with different entrepreneurs. Marketing is can be simple and fun. I enjoy helping people utilize new and old ways to reach their customers and drive awareness about their business. I also enjoy helping with the financials of the business. Seeing how a business model works to generate cash is one of the most important thing a business owner can learn early on. Then they can know the �score� on how their business is performing.