Cinema and venue equipment reseller

Independent and community cinemas, drive-ins, performing arts centers, schools, churches and event venues.

A margin on the equipment you resell, plus a project or coordination fee. Jobs are paid per project, often with a deposit upfront, so income can be uneven month to month.

• Understanding projection, sound and seating basics
• Quoting and negotiating
• Managing suppliers and subcontractors

• Some manufacturers limit who can sell certain projectors, so check dealer authorization before promising a brand
• Check whether your state requires a contractor or low-voltage license even when you subcontract the install
• General liability insurance, and check whether you need product or professional liability cover
• Sales tax registration and resale certificate rules in your state
• Taking deposits for big orders means you carry the risk if a supplier is late, so put terms in writing

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on your home office setup, quoting tools and how much you spend on marketing to cinemas, schools, churches and venues.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on the size and number of projects you win and your margins. Put deposit and delivery terms in writing, since you carry the risk if a supplier is late.

Check dealer authorization before promising a brand, since some manufacturers limit who can sell certain projectors. Also check whether your state requires a contractor or low-voltage license even when you subcontract, plus sales tax, resale certificate rules and insurance.