LiveWorld Transcripts

American Express e-magine presents

Magic Johnson
Announces $100,000 Webpreneur winner

February 5, 2001

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Magic: I'd like to start off by saying that this competition was very close, and that all of the Webpreneurs have succeeded in doing what many established companies have no idea how to even begin. Launching a business online is proving itself to be a bit tougher that than most expected. However, it is creating amazing opportunities for those who are approaching it with a well-crafted strategy and careful planning. Throughout the few months the Webpreneurs built a strong game plan and took the necessary steps to stand out from the crowd. Before I announce the winner, I would like to congratulate all of the e-magine entrepreneurs for working hard and proving themselves to be all-star Webpreneurs. The winner was judged based on creativity, Venture Capital potential, Web site hits, and Web site revenue. Our e-magine $100,000 winner proved successful in all of these categories. The e-magine with Blue for Business 2001 $100,000 winner is Jeff Mancini, President of EastCoastFisherman.com! Yay!

Jeff: Thank you so much for the opportunity to launch my business online. I definitely could not have done it without e-magine and the resources provided by American Express, SmartAge.com, and IBM.

Magic: I'd just like to say congratulations, I'm excited for you! It's people like Jeff and his company that make America go. That make America grow!

Nora: This is for the winner. What are your plans for the $100,000?

Jeff: Well, I plan to expand the website that we currently have to possibly include streaming video clips, also expand our catalog and online shopping experience. We are also going to be working on some new video projects, and TV projects that we have in the works.

Trilby: What inspires you in your business life? Do you have any gurus or books you recommend for entrepreneurs?

Jeff: I don't truly have any books that I would like to recommend, but I think if someone has a goal in mind, or an idea for an e-business that they want to start, they should follow their dreams, and think what the practical use for that idea will be, and hopefully their dream will come true as well.

Magic: I believe the Internet is still in the beginning of its life cycle and we are all entering this unknown world, armed only with the insights from people's past successes and failures. So, I've shared my experiences so far as an e-businessman. Do you have anything you'd like to tell potential Webpreneurs from a small business point of view, such as things you did right or things you did wrong?

Jeff: I think you need to follow your creative vision, for the overall look and feel of the site that you may want to create. I also don't believe that there is any one e-business model that is the best to follow. Your idea might be the best one yet, so don't let anyone stand in the way of you discovering your potential. And follow your idea out, and don't let anyone discourage you, and I think you will be successful too!

WPB: Hello Mr. Johnson. Now that you have seen the different sites that were created have you thought of any new great ideas yourself for a web business?

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