OEN Member Spotlight - Adam Boesel, The Green Microgym

Q. What is the name of your company?

A. The Green Microgym

Q. How long has your product/service/company been in the market?
A. We open on August 29, 2008

Q. How did you determine need for product/service (or why do anticipate a need)?
A. I was thinking about a way to differentiate my gym from all others, and thought about electricity generation. It seemed possible, so I went for it, and I got so much positive feedback and press, I just kept going for it, and here I am opening the first gym to produce it’s own energy in the U.S., and soon to be the world’s first to grid-tie.

Q. Why did you choose Portland to start your business?
A. Portland, and Oregon lead the country in support for renewable energy and community based businesses. We also like the community feel of the city and have family in the area.

Q. What are your impressions of the entrepreneurial community in Portland?
A. Supportive, smart, easy to break into.

Q. How would you like to see it grow/change?
A. I’d like to continue to see it grow by getting more and more young, creative energy doing more and more cool things.

Q. How are you involved in the community and how has it helped shape your business?
A. I’ve attended several of the OEN pub talks and presented at the Green one. I’ve also been to GreenDrinks and met lots of people. Finally, I’ve been taken in by the MicroEnterprise Services of Oregon, and they have really helped me get things going.

Q. How does OEN assist you/how are you specifically benefiting from the organization?
A. I’ve received mentoring, met several people who have given me great advice, been helped along by Sarena and the publicity department, and taken advantage of the McCormick and Schmicks give certificates!

Q. What are your favorite websites/magazines/events that you read/attend to keep yourself informed about the business community/your specific market?
A. Sethgodin.com (his blog), INC. Magazine

Q. Any advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
I have no business giving anybody advice. I have the right story at the right time and it’s resonating with people. I think it will succeed monetarily, but I don’t know yet. I guess the best advice I would give is to fail fast and often, and be willing to follow the obvious signs. Finally, make it the way you really want it to be, even if you have no money.