Tale of a Successful Small Business in a Rural Community

The successful small business created by Sandy Maine in Parishville, northern New York, is featured.Beginning with less than a $15 investment, Maine founded SunFeather Natural Soap Company, and has experienced continuous sales growth for the past 20 years. The lessons and principles that made her business a success, as well as the socioeconomic environment of northern New York, are described.A transcription of an interview with Maine is provided, which covers the topics: getting started, planning to start the business, sources of funding, marketing, supporting business growth, competition, and outlook for the future. In conclusion, Maines' current approach to and knowledge of business is compared with an interview she gave in 1986. (LMH)