Engineering and fabrication
How do you approach a manufacturing company with a proposal to market and sell a product they can produce?
I don't have a lot of money, but I know of a manufacturing company that can make a product I would like to try to market and sell. Is it common in business for a manufacturing company to produce something for sale in this type of situation? How could I get them to go for my idea?
Public Comments
- Most companies won't talk to you unless you have your idea Patented (they don't want to be accused of stealing your idea), so Patent it first. Then Approach those companies who have products that might compliment yours. Be a good Idea to maybe mail a power Point Presentation to the head of marketing. BE sure to include a cover letter stating that the idea is patented, or he will probably return your letter w/o looking.
Failing that, maybe the best you can do is to see if a manufacturer will produce a small batch of what you have, and attend a trade show in the area of interest to showcase them.
- Forget about a patent, patent pending costs over $1,000. Id say chance that part of it - its bad PR if they try that and to much of a liability.
As for the approach, you have to pretend they are a bank - you need more than just an idea, you need an executable (business) plan, drawings a play-dough model whatever. Something to convince them that you're serious and invested in this. Feel free to email me with follow up questions if you have any.
- I could give some suggestion.
You don't need lots of money but you need your channels, which means you can sell their products successfully.
Then make a resume of your self focusing on your experiences in selling products. And let them have a clear idea of your realiability and ability. Of course, you may discuss the details if them have interests in cooperation with you.
After that, you can have a trial order of their products. It doesnt cost much money. If you can do it well, chances and profits come.
Good luck
