Navigate the Swirl

CHAPTER 5A Business Is Born: Stage 1, Independent Contributors

An entrepreneur's life is really a continuous journey.

—Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, founder, Biocon Ltd

Strega Regio knew a thing or two about love. In fact, her matchmaking skills were nothing short of legendary in the small Midwestern town where she'd settled after a long journey from the “old country” when she was just a teenager. Some said she'd learned her secrets from her Italian nonna. Some speculated that she possessed psychic powers. Some claimed she'd single-handedly been responsible for as many as a hundred happy marriages, including that of the town's mayor. Whatever the case, as she celebrated her seventy-ninth birthday, surrounded by her children and grandchildren, Strega was enjoying a comfortable retirement. But her grandson Paul, who was seated beside her during the festivities, couldn't help marveling at how many people approached her to ask for dating advice or introductions.

Fresh out of business school, Paul knew an opportunity when he saw one. His grandmother was already helping a surprising number of people—but what if they could turn her skill into a business where many more lonely singles could find a chance at love? When he pitched his grandmother on his idea, Strega was secretly thrilled to have a reason to get out of the house every day. They met at a local coffee house, sipped espresso, and began to plan. The setting for these early conversations found its way into the business plan, and ...