Where To Begin?

The Business Incubation Group (BIG) in New York City is an incubator with a twist: It's looking for friendly, smart and dedicated entrepreneurs who want a hands-on approach to assistance.

Instead of charging, BIG takes equity positions in the companies it assists. BIG's clients can get help by renting space at the incubator's facility at a reduced rate.

Besides connecting eligible businesses with investors, BIG's strength lies in working with companies that are producing or selling consumer products. BIG will consider firms in all stages of development, but expects to work intensely with only 10 entrepreneurs at any one time for up to two years before opening its doors to other fledgling companies.

For more details, call (212) 966-2500, or visit BIG's Web site (www.bizincu.com) to complete the BIG intake form.

This article was originally published in the May 2000 print edition of Entrepreneur with the headline: Where To Begin?.