BBI 2024 Archives

Robin Saidov, founder of Your Energy Footprint. (Credit: Courtesy of Your Energy Footprint) Robin Saidov has worked in the utilities industry for more than 20 years – and even she found the process of getting quotes for solar panels to be confusing and unclear. After three moves, more than 30 solar-panel quotes and zero transparent pitches, Saidov decided to create the solution to a problem she and countless other homeowners are facing. Last year, she launched Your Energy Footprint to offer an online course for homeowners looking into solar energy. The Westport, Connecticut, entrepreneur’s business prepares prospective solar panel buyers by arming them with right questions to ask, as well as knowledge on how to break down quotes, so they can decide for themselves whether it’s a sound investment. Because, as Saidov says, “no one deserves to be ripped off.” Editor’s Note: Your Energy Footprint has been named to The Story Exchange’s 2024 list of 10 Brilliant Business Ideas. How is your business different from others in your industry? All of the other resources on buying solar that I've found have turned out to be sales funnels for installers. They show what I’ve found to be incorrect return-on-investment calculations that make panels seem like a good investment – when they actually aren’t. It is possible to get solar to benefit the environment and still save money, but some installers want to keep more of the profits for themselves. In 2022, residential solar was a $36 billion industry, and growing. It's time homeowners had someone on their side. Tell us about your biggest success so far. My first media interview was with Consumer Reports, and I will be quoted in their May/June 2024 issue. I've been quoted in other major publications online, too. I view success as helping to drive solutions to climate change, while helping people make sound solar investments. What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it? There are 82 million single-family homes in the U.S., and less than 2% of homeowners are likely shopping for solar this year. It's a challenge to reach them. I'm addressing this by way of my podcast, where I detail easy, money-saving energy efficiency improvements they can make. The podcast is relevant, sharable and relatable. And when homeowners start shopping for solar panels, they will already be familiar with my brand. Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions? I started my company in the summer of 2023, and fully developed my product before launching any marketing efforts. The reason I am moving slowly, yet methodically, is that I am also taking care of my 2-year-old daughter. Keeping her home with me has given me the ability to develop my own company at all, but when she starts school in 2024, I’llll have more time to develop more products and reach more customers. What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? Start a podcast, and promote it well – it’s a great way to engage and grow an audience! How do you find inspiration on your darkest days? My kids. When I reach a creative block or a hard point, I step away and do something with them. When I come back to the problem, then I'm fresh and ready to go. What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days? Jay Z’s “Dirt Off Your Shoulder.” An oldie but a goodie! Who is your most important role model? My parents. They raised me to always do the right thing, and showed me how to be an entrepreneur.◼ Instagram: @yourenergyfootprintFacebook: @yourenergyfootprint Share your story! Check out our Advice + Tips for entrepreneurs starting-upWatch our latest videosSubscribe to our podcast

BBI 2024

Helping Homeowners Navigate Solar Energy Installation

A Suitcase Designed with Frequent Fliers in Mind

Empowering Kids Through Public Speaking Classes

A One-Stop Self-Care Shop in the Heart of Oakland

A Way for the Latina Community to Leverage AI

A Durable, Chic Umbrella Made of Ocean-Bound Plastic

Golfwear for the Girls

A Baby Registry for Parents Expecting Twins

Light Therapy Products for Burned-Out Customers

The Rotten Tomatoes for Content Creators

A Suitcase Designed with Frequent Fliers in Mind

The Story Exchange

BBI 2024

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