~drigo : evolution apprentice

Practical tips for earning revenue at eco-adventure resorts

~drigo said Sep 25, 2006, 7:39 AM:
 

How do we actually generate the revenue that we need to pay our bills, maintain our property, pay salaries, and generally keep things running smoothly? 

If anyone can share some wisdom here, please jump in…

Part of the concept that we are building on this pod is that an eco village can generate income from tourism.  People need to take vacations once in awhile - so there is a need here that can be met with simple lodges or accommodations at an eco village premises. 

There are a thousand ways to earn income, and here are just a few to consider:

  • corporate functions - corporations have budgets for training and retreats.  With usually a single point of contact, this can be an efficient marketing exercise and can lead to longer term relationships with organizations. 
  • field trips - for environmental science classes / biology field trips.  A focus on sustainability and seeing how sustainability works in practical terms rather than just theory is a hands on approach to education. 
  • courses - anything from a weekend detox to an intensive thai massage course to a cooking course.  Team up with local teachers who already have a database of students and a solid reputation. 
  • activities - earn income from rental of equipment and guided services.  On our island, we have snorkeling equipment, wind surfers, and canoes.  Besides adding to the attractiveness of the destination, activities offer a good source of income. 
  • A la carte menus - once you have a decent kitchen in place, and if you are or can employ a good cook, meals are classic revenue generators.  Tasty organic foods straight from your farm.  Fresh fish from a nearby river / the sea. 
For me, it's been rather difficult to secure individual participation.  I send out emails, text message advertising, and I write articles in local magazines.  These have generated some interest, but not enough to sustain the enterprise.  Working with organizations is a strategy definitely worthwhile pursuing. 

Another critical lesson to consider is this - we have ideas for what might work, and what we might be interested in, but these don't necessarily match the needs and wants 'out there.'  United Adventures is putting together a modified survey, which is simple to fill out…  And we are handing these to all our existing and potential clients and getting feedback.  Needs assessments are critical… spending time developing and putting together products and services that don't necessarily get the desired response can be frustrating - so compile a survey and get some feedback from your market!

For those of you involved in eco villages, or who have experience… please do share… how have you found the process of earning cash?  What actually works?

Namaste,

~drigo