Open a neighborhood skateboard shop

Teen and adult skaters, parents buying a first board, and local schools or youth programs.

Markup on products sold, plus small fees for board assembly, grip tape and repairs. Regular customers return often for wheels, bearings and replacement decks.

• Knowing skateboard gear and what suits each skater
• Basic board building and repair
• Inventory buying and tracking
• Customer service and community building

• Check with your city or county about a business license and zoning for retail
• Register with your state for a sales tax permit and check how to collect sales tax
• General liability insurance and coverage for stock, theft and fire
• Commercial lease terms, since rent is usually the biggest ongoing cost
• Tying up cash in stock that does not sell, such as seasonal clothing and sizes of shoes

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $90,000, depending on the size of the space, your opening stock and any fit-out. These are estimates. Cash can get tied up in stock that does not sell.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $6,000 to $30,000, depending on location, your product range and whether you add custom builds and repairs. Rent is usually the biggest ongoing cost.

Check with your city or county about a business license and zoning for retail. Also check state sales tax registration, insurance for liability, stock, theft and fire, and your commercial lease terms before signing.