Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE- Alan Kunz, a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, always tried to find ways to make money for himself. His efforts led him to become an entrepreneur at just 19 years old.

Kunz owns and operates Kunz's Lawncare, which serves over 15 clients around the Stitzer area. He began his business by mowing his neighbor's lawn. He was paid by the neighbor and kept the grass to feed his calves. Recognizing the business opportunity, Kunz bought two commercial lawnmowers. His business grew from there. He said that his business philosophy, quality and customer service, has been key to his success.

"I've been the highest bidder and still gotten the job. Townships don't want complaints about how bad the job was done. They'll pay extra for good quality. I also try to work on a personal basis with my clients," said Kunz.

In addition to giving him income, Kunz's business also gives him hands-on experience that compliments the knowledge he gains from class. He sees his classes as a tool in helping him advance his business by comparing the things he learns to the experiences he has in his business. "Everything I do in class I can relate to my business," he said.

Kunz also has used the experience he's gained from his business in starting the Collegiate Entrepreneurs' Organization. "CEO Club is a business in a sense. The running of it and advertising are much the same as operating and advertising my lawn care business," said Kunz. CEO Club exists to build relationships between entrepreneurs and support members in their endeavors. They regularly host guest speakers to educate members and the community about entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneurship is not only a career choice for Kunz, but also a lifestyle. He said entrepreneurs have to be risk takers and creative thinkers. "There's always work to be found. Find what you like to do and find a way to make money doing it," said Kunz. "I don't know what my life would be like without my business. I always think like an entrepreneur."

Contact: Alan Kunz, president, CEO Club, (608) 778-0553, kunza@uwplatt.edu Written by: Krystle Kurdi, UWP Office of Public Relations, (608) 342-1194, kurdik@uwplatt.edu