By: NEAL ST. ANTHONY
Source: http://www.startribune.com
Category: Small Business Grant
Sometimes starting a new business just takes a good idea and a little "moxie."
Deb Amorde and Brooke Freiborg, ardent bicyclists, decided a few years ago that the industry needed jerseys designed for women.
"I did a hand-sewn prototype in 2009," recalled Freiborg, 29. "Women riders have unique needs and other sports have made significant strides in women's' apparel.''
This year, Freiborg expects Moxie Cycling to sell about 1,000 of its locally made jerseys in 10 styles at $58 apiece through its website, www.moxiecycling.com, and Teamestrogen.com, and at local races and bike shops across 12 states.
Amorde and Freiborg, who has cut back her hours at her day job at Hot Dish Advertising, knew they were on to something when they sold 200 Moxie jerseys in eight hours at the 2011 RAGBRAI, the annual week-long ride across Iowa.
Freiborg and Amorde, 40, who works for TN Marketing in Wayzata, have developed a product that's a hit with women willing to spend a couple of hours or all day in the saddle.
The features include a moisture-transport fabric, ergonomic seams, a U-shaped neckline for style and comfort, removable bra cups and a longer silhouette that prevents upward "jersey creep."
Women appreciate the designs and men compliment the look, Freiborg said about the stylish jerseys that are manufactured locally.
GOING TO BAT FOR FINANCIAL LITERACY
Minnesota Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman was hanging out last week with TC Bear, the Minnesota Twins mascot, and a bunch of St. Paul kids.
Rothman, kicking off a statewide financial literacy essay contest for school kids, is Gov. Mark Dayton's point man on improving Minnesotan's understanding of the language of consumer finance, how to manage a checkbook, budget, handle credit and how to avoid getting snookered.
Source: http://www.startribune.com/business/146456685.html
