Inspiration comes in many different sizes, shapes, and stories. For Dan Cowens, inspiration was found in a need…a problem…that could be solved with what he deemed a simple fix.
Imagine this…it is June and what was supposed to be a rainy weekend turns out to be beautiful so you decide to take the boat out for an overnight trip. But just like a car needs a space to park, a boat needs a space to dock. That’s where Cowens’ startup Snag-A-Slip comes in.
The Annapolis start-up launched its online slip booking service that targets boaters looking for a last-minute safe harbor to take shelter in or dock space for a spontaneous, last-minute outing. “Previously that wasn’t an option,” said Cowens. “The chances of getting a slip on the Fourth of July within 48 hours would be like finding a unicorn.”
Boaters often spend hours online and on the phone checking availability at marinas and booking slips. Meanwhile, marinas often end the weekend with rows of vacant slips. Snag-A-Slip bridges this gap which is why Cowens expects the company to grow quickly.
Ahead of the goals Cowens initially set, the company is already working with 40 marinas and expects to have business relationships with at least 750 marinas nationwide this time next year. If the company continues to grow at that pace, it could be profitable within three years with an estimated $20 million in revenue. Snag-A-Ship will also be hiring as it expands to new marinas. The company currently has 10 full-time employees and could grow to as many as 70 by this time next year. “It’s taking off beyond our wildest dreams,” Cowens said.
So, after you move past all the thoughts of “Why didn’t I think of that?” and you’ve made way for new and innovative ideas to enter your mind…look no further than My Annapolis Office. My Annapolis Office is Annapolis’ premier workspace provider giving your business the office space, technology, and support staff it needs to succeed. Our fully-furnished office space and virtual office solutions — along with our first class amenities such as personalized phone answering service, reception service, Class-A meeting space, and prestigious mailing address — are customizable and fit any size budget.
So, when inspiration finds you, find us at 410-656-1600 or www.MyAnnapolisOffice.com.
Source: Baltimore Business Journal
