Cyndi says: "I'll Be Watching"

We'd like your reactions to an unsolicited e-mail we recently received from a budding entrepreneur. And let us know if you are an entrepreneur, too!

HELLO innovation@cfed,

I just want to thank your organization for sending me the "light bulb"postcard in the mail.

My curiosity about the website piqued my interest, so I decided to check it out and certainly found it encouraging that you are doing this.

I, myself am in the beginning stages of trying to launch a business that would make a difference not only in my own community, but far beyond that.  While I would not be interested in applying at this time, I am very interested in staying involved by watching how everything takes place, from selection of the Innovators-in-Residence to a discussion forum on different ideas.

Your organization hits the "nail on the head" of the economy, exactly where we need it most.  We need great ideas to stimulate this economy and encourage entrepreneurs to start new businesses.  While I am working on ironing out the details in launching my own business, my main goal at the moment is to find full time work to help support our family while I get things going on the side.  (I've been looking for over a year so that gives you an idea of exactly how tough the economy is out there.)  That is why I really applaud your efforts.  My goal is to eventually have a small company that can sustain itself, show a good profit, but most of all, make a difference.   I want to know in some way that I was able to help this tough economy as well.

As an American, I appreciate your innovation in coming up with this idea in the first place, and am really excited that you're doing this.

God bless, best wishes to you, and I hope that you have many successes!

I'll be watching.

(Signed) Cyndi G.
Cornelius, Oregon

PS.  Whoever came up with the light bulb postcard was a marketing genius. Good job!  :)