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Health & Fitness

Small, Local Businesses are rising to the Challenge

Developing a successful business model these days takes a lot of tenacity and ingenuity. Helpful tools such as IndieGoGo and Kickstarter emerged about 5 years ago to aid the growth of small businesses by utilizing crowdsourcing. Both websites are platforms where small businesses can host goal-oriented campaigns to be backed by funders. Local business, Heart and Stone Jewelry, of Northborough recently launched their campaign on IndieGoGo. Owner, Julie Booras established Heart and Stone Jewelry in 2007 and is looking for help in getting to the next level.

The spark for Heart and Stone Jewelry ignited when Julie began to work with precious metals and natural gemstones. Her buildable charm collection is handmade from reclaimed fine and sterling silver and 18K gold, the beauty is unmistakable. Her company reflects her creative spirit, artistic drive and desire to make a difference in people's lives by creating unforgettable, meaningful jewelry that symbolizes the spirit of the wearer.

Julie's ambitious drive and desire to grow has led her to IndieGoGo. IndieGoGo was officially launched at the Sundance Film Festival in 2008 as a tool to aid the raising of funds for creative projects via crowdsourcing; it bypasses the customary path of investment. The direct support from others helps breathe life into determined, innovative, and imaginative projects. Supporters back projects in exchange for a one-of-a-kind experience, a personal token of thanks, a personalized gift item, or maybe even dinner with the business owner.

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Heart and Stone is offering gifts for that correlate with specific donation amounts. Just to name a few: A donation of $20 will allow you to choose a gem drop of your choice on a sterling wire; donating $100 will gift you one of Heart and Stone's treasured "Feel the Love" necklaces, $200 rewards the backer with an initial diamond pendant, $1,250 would allow your company to brand 25 charms.

The largest reward for a donation of $1,500 would be the ultimate party package! An evening of fun and creativity for the backer and 5 of their closest friends to come, design, and actually make their own fine silver pendants and earrings from precious metal clay. A great idea for bridal party or ladies night!

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Crowdsourcing has become the "it-tool" to for small businesses to grow and develop. It allows for increased flexibility. Companies who are exploring new ventures can draw on resources to establish the project. It is an inexpensive way to open up a whole new world of talent and ideas; access to needed answers is out there, this allows for a better chance to find them!

Heart and Stone has set a goal of $14,000 in 31 days. If Heart and Stone can reach their goal by August 16, 2013 it would allow Julie and her team to develop into something bigger. She would be able to bring on additional employees to service the demands for personalized, fine silver jewelry!  You can help support this local business by visiting their IndieGoGo campaign here:http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/heart-stone-jewelry-opening-doors

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