Austin organization crowns newest 'idea man'
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Plenty of music and film innovators live in Austin, but what does someone do if they think they have a great idea for a new product?
For more than a decade, Big Austin has been answering that question, by recognizing area entrepreneurs and giving them the tools to succeed.
Friday, Jerome Little was honored as Austin’s newest idea man.
Little took the grand prize in the Existing Business Plan Competition for his ergonomic bass guitar design. It's a prize that comes with a $10,000 award.
Big Austin awards two grand prize winners each year in its "Big Austin Idea" competition. The other contest, for youth business concepts, takes home $1,000.
Based in Austin, Little Guitar Works is run out of its namesake’s home. The company’s instruments sell for $5,000 a piece and help prevent musicians from developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Little currently has a one-year waiting list for commissioned orders. After securing a patent and perfecting his craft, he says he's ready to grow his business.
"Just kind of making sure I got it right. That's how I am, I like to have the plan, know how deep the water is before I jump in," he said.
Big Austin also offers small businesses training, counseling and loan assistance.