News Release Archive
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/TOURISM--PROGRAM PART OF THE LANDSCAPE
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Some people might say that entrepreneurship is in Tyler McAdoo's
blood. At the age of 12 he came up with the idea for, and helped
run, his sister's ice cream cart. Now the 19-year-old Windsor
native is operating a successful landscaping business called
McAdoo's Lawn and House Care.
The Saint Mary's University commerce student has always had an
eye for business opportunities. In previous years, Mr. McAdoo has
washed windows and painted buildings in the Windsor area.
This year, he decided to move into the landscaping business. But
he knew he needed financial help if he wanted to operate the
business competitively, so he applied for a Youth Entrepreneurial
Skills (YES) program loan, an initiative of Nova Scotia Economic
Development and Tourism.
Starting small was the objective for this year, said Mr. McAdoo.
With the help of a $2,000 YES loan, he set up his business,
bought mowers, garden equipment, a truck and trailer, and
advertised locally.
"Expenses were high this year . . . the loan definitely helped,"
he said. "I sent out abut 3,500 flyers and got about $6,000 in
jobs from it." But living at home during the summer helped offset
some major expenses, such as rent.
Mr. McAdoo has about 30 clients, with many being repeat
customers, a sure sign that his work is good. He said customers
come back because of the way he runs his business.
"Our work is as good as anyone else's around," he said. "Because
we're young, we've tried to make it as professional as possible.
All my quote sheets are done on computer, so everything is
professional looking."
Mr. McAdoo said the YES program provided him with an opportunity
to do what he really enjoys. "I like my work. I didn't want to do
something I don't like all summer. Plus, the pay incentive helps;
it's a lot better than minimum wage.
"The only difference is that you have to work longer hours, but
it pays off."
Four of Mr. McAdoo's friends help him out with his business. Next
year, he hopes to hire some full-time and part-time workers.
"It got a little bit bigger than I anticipated," he said. "I'm
going to try to get some grants next year to hire some other
students."
The YES program provides loans to full-time students between the
ages of 16 and 29 who wish to set up and operate their own
business. The program helps participants prepare a business plan
and provides business counselling and training. Students apply to
Economic Development and Tourism and, if eligible, may receive a
loan of up to $5,000.
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Contact: Angela Campbell
Economic Development and Tourism
902-424-1728
E-mail: econ.campbeam@gov.ns.ca
NOTE TO EDITORS: Colour photos available upon request.
ngr September 5, 1997 4:00 pm
