Black Business Spotlight
After years of perfecting his craft and working for other companies, Kenneth Stewart decided that he wanted to capitalize on his skills as a journeymen painter. He launched Nike Painting and Wall Covering, a company specializing in commercial and residential painting.
Meet Kenneth Stewart, Owner of Nike Painting and Wall Covering
After years of perfecting his craft and working for other companies, Kenneth Stewart decided that he wanted to capitalize on his skills as a journeymen painter. He launched Nike Painting and Wall Covering, a company specializing in commercial and residential painting.
Why did you decide to start this business?
For many years, I worked for various companies as a painter, and after a while, I realized that I was doing all the work, and they were reaping the financial benefits. I had the skills and expertise to do the job, so the potential to earn more money and be my own boss, really motivated me to start my business.
What do you hope this business will provide for the community?
First, I believe in offering good service and high quality to my customers. A good paint job can really enhance a space, and I want people to feel good about their environment. I also want to offer hands-on training and employment opportunities for young people so they can develop a skill. People that have skills tend to be more confident and have more potential to become entrepreneurs. There are so many people with college degrees who end up working for someone else. I believe that in the long run, there are more benefits when working for yourself.
What has been your biggest challenge in launching?
One of the biggest challenges in business is getting the word out that you exist and establishing a customer base. When you first start out, people may not know you, so they may not trust you, or they make assumptions about you because you are a black owned business. Gaining that recognition and support within and outside your community can be an ongoing hurdle. That’s one reason I think Black businesses need to support one another.
What is your advice to aspiring entrepreneurs?
As an entrepreneur you must have a passion for what you are doing. The ups and downs are part of the journey, and it’s not always easy. There will be times when you may dislike certain aspects of what you’re doing, but passion helps you persevere. Remember, it’s not where you start that matters, it’s how you finish.
Contact Person
Nike Painting and Wall Covering
Kenneth Stewart
Ph: 812-774-7392
Email: stewark164@gmail.com
NikePainting.com
Author
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