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Miniature Golf Course Business Plan

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Sammy's Family Entertainment Center

Executive summary executive summary is a brief introduction to your business plan. it describes your business, the problem that it solves, your target market, and financial highlights.">.

The Business

Sammy’s is a Family Entertainment Center with a world class, natural looking miniature golf course acting as the initial anchor for other attractions to be added later. Family Entertainment is a highly profitable industry that has been growing rapidly over the past several years. This is due largely to a trend within the country to return to family values. The initial profit centers will be the miniature golf course, video arcade, climbing wall, and food service.

There are 150,000 people living within a 15-mile radius of the Firefly County site. One of the interesting facts about the miniature golf business is the breadth of the customer base. While families with children may act as an anchor, seniors, teens, and corporate customers add significant income. A variety of fun promotions keep the business profitable during the entire season. While our marketing plan is devised from other successful plans in the industry, there will be some additions as we start the business. Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders, our construction experts, include a marketing plan with golf course completion. This plan includes input from over 200 course owners and shows the most successful marketing programs being implemented across the country.

John and Michelle Putteer have successful experience in small business ownership, personnel management, and financial management. The miniature golf course operates with only one person during the day and two or three people during peak hours. The low personnel requirement makes management easy and keeps employee costs at a minimum.

The low inventory and low operational cost of a miniature golf course allow owners to reap profits early. With first year sales projections conservatively planned this business should be profitable from year one.

Investment Objectives

Sammy’s will become operational with an initial investment from owners John and Michelle Putteer and a long-term loan. One local commercial lender has indicated an interest in the conceptual business. John has also been approached by local investors who are interested in the opportunity to invest in the project.

1.1 Keys to Success

• A highly visible, well-trafficked site near the center of our service area. 
• Friendly, happy employees providing superior customer service.
• A safe, clean environment that the community will be proud of.
• Have fun while delivering a quality product.

1.2 Objectives

The main objective of Sammy’s is to use a “World Class” miniature golf course to provide a safe, relaxing setting for family and friends to enjoy quality time together, while participating in fun and exciting outdoor activities.

Objectives include:

• Open for business on April 15.
• Be profitable in the first year of operation.
• First year sales above par.
• Add a Go-Kart track to the facility after three years of operation.

1.3 Mission

The Mission of Sammy’s is to provide THE fun, affordable, family entertainment center for community members living in and around Firefly County.

Company Summary company overview ) is an overview of the most important points about your company—your history, management team, location, mission statement and legal structure.">

Sammy’s is a Family Entertainment Center with a world class, natural looking miniature golf course acting as the initial anchor for other attractions to be added later. Sammy’s hallmark will be a large, natural looking waterfall and water features. Family Entertainment is a highly profitable industry that has been growing rapidly over the past decade. This is due largely to a trend within the country to return to family values. The initial profit centers will be:

• miniature golf course
• video arcade
• climbing wall
• food service

Miniature golf is NOT golf in miniature. However, miniature golf does have a lot in common with regulation golf. To be interesting, miniature golf holes must have the contour changes found on a regulation green, which cause the ball to break and turn as it rolls toward the cup. Undulations and banking give the game an element of challenge and fun.

The anchor of Sammy’s is a “new concept” miniature golf course. The industry also refers to these as “sports courses.” Unlike miniature golf courses of old, windmills and standing bears are not found on today’s courses. Miniature golf courses, however, do need unique elements to hold the players’ interest. Greens that bring water, sand traps and rough turf into play add this uniqueness to miniature golf, while still maintaining an interesting and challenging game. Modern miniature golf courses are designed with attractive landscaping, water features, and elevation changes. A waterfall is the focal point of the Sammy’s course design. The water is a defining characteristic, in both its sight and sound.

The golf course is being designed and built by the most respected miniature golf course company in the United States, Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders, Inc. Four other builders were considered, but did not meet the professional standards of Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders. Mulligan-Bogey has built more than 400 profitable courses during their 40 years in business. They have demonstrated knowledge of what is required to make a successful facility. The course will be challenging, but not overly so. This will bring customers back to attempt to better their previous score.

2.1 Start-up Summary

Total start-up cost include construction, equipment, initial expenses, and working capital. Start-up assets required include short-term assets (office furniture and kitchen equipment), and we need initial cash to handle the first month of operations. The details are included in the start-up table.

Owners are making a cash investment. Additional loan financing is currently being arranged for ramp up and launch.

2.2 Company Ownership

Sammy’s will be created as a privately owned Subchapter C Corporation, registered in Firefly County. Stock will be equally held by the principal investors John and Michelle Putteer. As of this writing, the corporation has not been chartered. Other options of legal formation are still being investigated.

Products and Services

Miniature Golf

The primary attraction is the world class 18-hole miniature golf course, where participants have fun for only $5 per round. The challenge in miniature golf is to make the course interesting to play. Interesting shots bring repeat business. Undulations, banking, the size of the greens, the position of the cups, the intermixing of easier holes with more difficult holes to prevent back-up on the course, and hundreds of other little refinements, which come only from experience, are the difference between success and failure.

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Players take about one hour to complete a round of golf. The course can easily accommodate up to 100 players per hour during peak times.  These numbers are common on weekend evenings during the summer season.

Rock Climbing Wall

The 24-foot portable rock-climbing wall offers an element of adventure for those interested in extreme sports. The wall is located on site most of the time, but has the ability to be set up at fairs/festivals, school parking lots, or company picnics.

The climbing wall is mounted on a double axle trailer. The wall is raised and lowered by the trailer hydraulics in a few minutes. Complete set-up takes only ten minutes. There are three climbing stations on the wall with state of the art auto belay systems (automatically lets you down slowly); this allows everyone a chance to climb without fear of injury.

Video Arcade

The video arcade has a mix of popular games for children of all ages. The games vary in type and skill level. Some are physically oriented; others focus on hand eye coordination. The most profitable games issue tickets that may be redeemed for prizes. The arcade will be operated on a 50-50 split with a regional arcade company. In a national survey of FEC operators, respondents reported coin-operated games, both redemption/skill and video, were the second top attraction and revenue source, behind birthday parties. While FEC operators may have different attractions, all of them have video and/or redemption games.

Food Service

A small snack bar will serve fountain drinks, hot dogs, chips, and frozen custard (ice cream). The food area will also provide space for birthdays and other private parties. A renter may use our food fare or use our outside caterer.

Customers will walk through the food service area to and from the miniature golf course. As the customers walk off the 18th hole they find hot dogs, chips, and fountain drinks awaiting them. Frozen custard is a summer favorite too. Besides lending the feel of a full outing experience, the food service is a profitable portion of the business.

In addition to the arcade business there are two other profit centers using vending machines. On the course, a bottled water vending machine is located between the 9th and 10th hole.The final fun profit center comes from three fish food vending machines located at the Koi ponds, which are a central part of the golf experience. Other course operators are redeeming $13,000 per year from their fish food vending machines.

On a national level, the top revenue generators at FEC’s are motion simulators (arcade), birthday and other parties, miniature golf, food and beverage, and go-karts.

3.1 Future Growth

• Second 18 holes of miniature golf
• Batting cages
• Trampoline Thing
• Logo sportswear sales
• Remote control 4WD vehicles
• Lagoon for bumper boats and/or remote control boats.

Market Analysis Summary how to do a market analysis for your business plan.">

There are over 150,000 people living within a 15-mile radius of the Firefly County site. One of the interesting facts about the miniature golf business is the breadth of the customer base. While families with children may act as an anchor, seniors, teens, and corporate customers add significant income. A variety of fun promotions keeps the business profitable during the entire season. While our marketing plan is devised from other successful plans in the industry, there will be some additions as we start the business. Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders includes a marketing plan with course completion. This plan includes input from over 200 course owners and shows the most successful marketing programs being implemented across the country.

Customers will appreciate Sammy’s because of the high value to cost ratio our services provide. There is nowhere else in our area where a customer can enjoy an hour, or more, of entertainment for only $5. When the customer considers the high quality of the facility, the friendly staff and the variety of entertainment available, Sammy’s will be the first choice for individual, family, or group entertainment.

4.1 Market Segmentation

Our market segmentation scheme is fairly straightforward. The Miniature Golf Club of America and the Association of Fun and Relaxation both have excellent market research and have highlighted the following target audiences:

Individuals : There are over 150,000 people living within 15 miles of our location in Firefly County. The typical customer ranges in age from six to fifty-four, with family income over $20,900.[1] This large swath of society provides a broad customer base in Firefly County.

Families with young children enjoy the outings. Miniature golf is one of the few activities teenagers find acceptable to do with parents. This is demonstrated in research, which shows that children 5 to 18 years old, with at least one adult, represent the largest single audience at 36.9%.[2]

Teens and young adults , age 15 to 24, will make outings a date or group event. We note here that teens fit into two separate market segments. They may enjoy an outing as part of a family unit or independently as part of a peer group.

Adults , age 25 to 54, find the recreation enjoyable, with or without children or grandchildren.

Seniors , age 55 to 74, find the gentle form of recreation refreshing, whether alone or with grandchildren.

Private groups using FECs range from children’s birthday parties to family get togethers.

Organizations using the centers may be church groups, civic organizations, office get togethers, customer appreciation events, or corporate parties.

While the prime time for individual customers is evening and weekend, the wide group customer base allows Sammy’s to schedule daytime and weekday hours for maximum facility utilization.

Understanding and satisfying the customers’ needs are the key elements to a successful operation. The business goal is three-fold:

• Get the customer in the door
• Keep them entertained
• Get them to come back![3]

___________________________________________________________

[1] Telephone conversation, Sam Tix, President of the “Miniature Golf Club of America”

[2] Association of Fun and Relaxation  2002 annual report

[3] Association of Fun and Relaxation  2002 annual report

4.2 Target Market Segment Strategy

The Family Entertainment Industry has been enjoying significant growth in the last decade. Along with this growth has come research to assist the industry in further development. The markets listed below are proven segments, across the nation, for FECs to target in their marketing efforts.

A. Individuals

Families with young children enjoy outings. As the children mature, miniature golf is one of the few activities teenagers find acceptable to do with parents.[1] This is demonstrated in research, which shows that children 5 to 18 years old, with at least one adult, represent the largest market segment (36.9%) attending FECs.[2]

Teens and young adults will make the outing a date. FECs have proven popular with college age students. The proximity of Southeast State University and Firefly Community College make this segment particularly attractive. While many state college students travel home for the summer, the community college students live, or stay in the area.

Private groups using FECs include:

• Birthday parties
• Family get togethers

Organizations using FECs include:

• Church groups
• Civic organizations
• Office get togethers
• Customer appreciation events
• Corporate parties
• Group fundraisers

Group events are particularly desirable because:

• A large group of customers can be scheduled for off-peak hours
• Parties breed other parties as guests decide they want to book a similar event
• These are low cost, high profit events, that require little or no additional staffing

[2] Association of Fun and Relaxation 2002 annual report

4.3 Service Business Analysis

Family Entertainment, or Fun Centers (FEC) are defined by the Association of Fun and Relaxation (AFAR) as, “unique community-based recreation/entertainment destinations with family appeal and a reliance on repeat customers for their success.” A facility is considered an FEC if it contains three or more of the following elements as major attractions: miniature golf, batting cages, bumper boats/cars, go karts, rides, coin operated games, and soft modular play areas. After nearly a decade of  exponential growth, Family Entertainment Centers are still a growing segment of the amusement industry.

In a survey conducted for the 2002 AFAR Annual Report, 89% of respondents reported increased business revenues as the new century began. In the same survey, respondents indicated 73% of customers spent over $10 per person.

Family Entertainment Centers are successful in communities with populations as small as 40,000. Profitable FECs also exist in smaller communities with adequate trade areas.

4.3.1 Competition and Buying Patterns

Direct competition for identical facilities is not found in our service area. While there are competitive miniature golf courses in Wedgeville, Mashie Woods, Cleek, and St. Andrews, they are all well outside Sammy’s service area.

There are direct competitors in the immediate area for some components of Sammy’s.

• There is a video arcade in the Mall . This established facility is frequently busy with children whose parents are shopping in the mall. Other customers are junior and senior high school children who are there with friends, just “hanging out”. This competing arcade has the disadvantage of being a one-dimensional facility. They cannot offer birthday parties, miniature golf, or anything but arcade games.
• There is a miniature golf course on Hwy 20 just outside Niblick City . This facility is not conducive to children because the main attraction is a Par 3 golf course with a bar in the clubhouse. The course does not offer birthday parties or other complimentary attractions.

The fact that there are not serious direct competitors in Firefly County does not mean Sammy’s will not compete with other established recreation and amusement activities for the consumer’s business. Sammy’s will target marketing efforts at indirect competition, such as:

• Movie theaters
• Bowling alleys
• Roller skating rinks
• Cape Speedway racetrack
• University sporting events
• Par 3 golf course
• Video arcade

Sammy’s also recognizes the indirect competition from local restaurants.

Sammy’s realizes that there is competition for the customer’s dollar. As the local economy worsens with the recent closure of more mills in the local area, lower income families will watch their spending carefully. Although this is an area of concern, it is also an area where Sammy’s low cost will be appealing to the consumer.

While many industries experienced downturns during 2001, 66% of FEC owners experienced steady, or growing, revenues. It is important to note that 24% of respondents to the national survey were not open for a full year before the survey. Only 11% reported declining revenues. To further support the validity of the FEC industry in economic downturns, it is noted that 73% of customers spent over $10 per person in 2001. This is a big jump over previous years where only 43% of customers had this level of spending. During good times FECs do well. During hard economic times families redirect scarce recreational resources to these low cost type of activities and FECs do even better.

History has proven there are two types of businesses that thrive in depressed economic times. These two categories of businesses are alcohol and family entertainment. As far back as the depression of the early 30s, the family entertainment industry has performed well in prosperous times and in economic downturns.

Strategy and Implementation Summary

John and Michelle Putteer enjoy an unusual position in seeking investors. Many businesses in the early stage of their plan are wondering where to get funding. The Putteer’s have both institutional and private investors who have expressed an interest in financing the Sammy’s concept.

As noted elsewhere, this new concept in family entertainment has proven to be a popular and worthwhile business.

5.1 Competitive Edge

Sammy’s has several distinct competitive advantages over possible competitors.

We need to emphasize again, this “new concept” miniature golf course will be the first one in the service area. The big signature waterfall, large course with water features, and additional attractions will truly make Sammy’s a “one of a kind” facility.

We mentioned two direct competitors when considering competition. But Sammy’s has a large advantage over both:

• Competitor’s problem: The miniature golf course on Hwy 20 just outside Niblick City is an updated, remodeled version of the old style miniature golf course. But this facility is not “kid friendly.” The main feature is a Par 3 golf course with a tavern in the club house. There is not even an appropriate rest room for families/children to use.

Sammy’s advantage: Sammy’s will be the first and only facility of its type in the service area. The facility is designed to be “family friendly” throughout. Sammy’s will offer a much better value for an equal price. When the consumer considers the clean, attractive, multi-dimensional, kid friendly facility, there will be little question which provides the better value.

• Competitor’s problem: The video arcade in the local mall is a one dimensional facility that only offers video games. They have no other attractions that would interest a family. They cannot offer birthday parties, or other group gatherings. The typical customer at this facility is the unsupervised child/teenager visiting while his parents are shopping.

Sammy’s advantage: The dimly lit mall arcade is no comparison for Sammy’s clean, supervised multi-dimensional facility. Again, when compared side by side, there will be little question as to the better value.

It is important to address the indirect competitors in our service area. These indirect competitors come into play when people are considering an outing, but are not sure where to go. Sammy’s has a distinct advantage in pricing over the competitors. There is also an attraction to Sammy’s as the newest entertainment type in the area, whereas other indirect competitors no longer have a “novelty” appeal to the consumers.

The combination of price, novelty, and choices of activities from multi-dimensional offerings clearly makes Sammy’s the competitive leader in family entertainment.

5.2 Marketing Strategy

Carefully designed advertising and promotions will accurately target the spectrum of customers identified above in the Target Market Segmentation topic.

While fun and excitement are the main draws that bring customers in the door, the value pricing and excellent location are also important factors.

Sammy’s pricing is designed to appeal to all levels of the economic spectrum. A game of miniature golf will only be $5 per person. Children under five are free with an adult. This price is lower than a movie and the experience lasts as long. As noted above, family entertainment is a high priority.

The arcade games will operate with tokens. Free tokens can be given to each participant at a birthday party, each golf game, or other marketing promotions. Tokens are also available for sale at the low price of five tokens for one dollar.

5.3 Sales Strategy

Sammy’s is in the enviable position of having customers who come to the facility with the intent to purchase. But we do not take lightly the need to treat our customers in a manner congruent with the fun loving, relaxing image of Sammy’s. Our friendly, energetic, fun-loving staff will be trained to make the experience memorable and enjoyable, leaving the customer with a desire to return.

The staff will be trained to maximize the sale by adding concessions, arcade, and climbing wall to the golfing experience. We will use promotions and staff to inform the customer about the availability of our facility for group events.

Another factor in garnering repeat customers is the challenge to better their score on the next round. For the truly competitive miniature golfer, Sammy’s involvement with the Mulligan-Bogey Cup Championship offers an appealing incentive for those intrigued by the $10,000 grand prize. This national event is held each year at one of the Mulligan-Bogey built miniature golf courses.

5.3.1 Sales Forecast

The forecast presented here is realistic, but conservative. The course will open March 15 each year. Sammy’s is closed each January and February. The reader should note second year revenues will likely be higher than presented because of consumer awareness of the facility after the first year.

Actual usage from existing courses, with similar demographics and seasonal weather patterns, was considered when making these forecasts. Sammy’s reduced the numbers in order to make a conservative forecast. For a list of actual numbers see the Builder’s Estimate topic, below.

Parties have not been included in these numbers because they are so difficult to forecast. But existing course owners report parties as a significant portion of their income. Therefore, Sammy’s will aggressively market their facilities for all types of parties. Once again we see the conservative nature of the forecast. The additional revenue will be realized with almost no increase in sales costs.

The climbing wall will only be available during peak hours because another employee is needed on the wall whenever it is in use. This wall is mobile and can be set up at other locations for both cash flow and marketing purposes.

Outside concessions projects that 20% of golfers will purchase a bottle of water from the outside vending machine.

Inside concessions projections are based on 35% of golfers visiting our snack bar and spending an average of $2.

Forty percent of golfers will stop in the arcade to play skill or action games. While this figure may be slightly high, it does not consider individuals who may not play miniature golf, but come for the arcade only. Arcade revenues are split 50/50 with the machine owners.

The fish feeder is an idea so effective it is humorous to watch. One miniature golf course owner spent money for years to feed his fish. Then he put vending machines out and discovered another profit center earning over $13,000 the first year. The Department of Fish and Wildlife discovered the same thing when they added vending machines at their hatcheries.

Overall growth is low because attendance at FECs levels, or declines slightly, after the first few years of operation due to the fact that the novelty wears off. To offset a decline in revenues, successful FECs change the appearance of the course with new landscaping and decorative layouts.

5.4 Milestones

The major milestones are separated into three categories:

• The planning, or pre-construction phase
• The construction phase
• The operational phase

The business is the creation of John Putteer, who is solely responsible for oversight and coordination of the entire project.

The dollar figures used in the milestones table are approximate numbers, based on current estimates and projections within the business plan.

Funding: Both commercial and private investors have expressed an interest in reading the completed plan. They have also expressed a genuine belief in this proposal and have indicated an early positive interest in financing the project.

Construction: While John Putteer is the project coordinator, other contractors will be utilized during the course of construction. The General Contractor will be Fairway Construction from Firefly. The miniature golf course will be built by Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders.

Management Summary management summary will include information about who's on your team and why they're the right people for the job, as well as your future hiring plans.">

John and Michelle both manage people in their current careers. John is an Engineer/Paramedic making split-second life and death decisions on a daily basis. He supervises another fire fighter on the ambulance. For five years John acted as a Captain for the Firefly Fire Department supervising seven firefighters and making decisions for the city of Firefly. He was also President of the Firefly Firefighters Union for ten years. During this time he made executive decisions in his management capacity and participated in negotiations. John is the owner/manager of Airport Mini Storage. When he bought the units they were losing money at only 60% occupancy. Under his management they are consistently 90% occupied and remain profitable.

Michelle is a dental hygienist who has one assistant working for her. She also frequently manages student interns. As a dental hygienist she is skilled in the management and motivation of each patient on a personal level. The ability to evaluate and judge acceptance and compliance in individuals is a skill that she employs daily.

For additional information see Resumes below. [ Confidential and Proprietary information omitted from this sample plan .]

6.1 Personnel Plan

Optimum customer service is important, even critical, for the success of Sammy’s. But the owners also realize the high (and expanding) cost of employees. Fortunately, in the miniature golf industry, a high number of customers can be served efficiently by relatively few employees.

Sammy’s will require one staff member for off peak hours. Additional staff will be scheduled in accordance with demand determined by daily attendance patterns, eg: more staff will be required during summer months and during weekend and evening hours.

Sammy’s will have a salaried manager on staff during the months the facility is open.

Assistant Manager

The assistant manager will be an hourly employee working for $9.35 per hour.

Part-time Staff

Part-time staff will be used as needed for optimal customer service.

Financial Plan investor-ready personnel plan .">

The rapidly growing family entertainment industry is enjoying great success across the nation. These “too good to be true” numbers are, in fact, realistic. Every effort has been made to use conservative numbers in all categories. This point bears repeating; conservative, well researched numbers have been used in all categories .

The lack of inventory and current liabilities will give some readers problems with the “usual” Business Ratios.

7.1 Important Assumptions

Sammy’s does not assume they have no competition. But it is worthy to note there is a distinct lack of family entertainment in the area. While one might initially think this means such a business will not flourish here, our research has indicated otherwise. For example:

• The expanding network of new concept miniature golf courses is finding success in rural America. Locations near rural arterials are performing well across the nation.
• Locations in cities are doing well also. In our own region we see successful examples in St. Andrews and Mashie Woods.

Note the interest is high for current lending. This is in keeping with the conservative nature of this plan. It further demonstrates the basic health of this conceptual business.

7.2 Break-even Analysis

We see an extremely low variable cost in the Break-even table. While some would consider this an error, we know it to be the beauty of the business. The variable costs are limited to a scorecard (1 cent), a stubby pencil that is used several times, and the replacement of balls (which are used hundreds of times).

The largest variable that determines the level of success in a miniature golf operation is the percent utilization of the golf course during the season. As the marketing plan points out, there are clearly defined peaks and valleys of activity during a typical week. Evenings and weekends tend to produce very high utilization, even full utilization for much of this time. On the other hand, weekday hours (between 10 am and 4 pm) tend to have lower utilization. On average over the full season, most facilities (with a direct population base of 40,000 to 60,000) experience a utilization of approximately 35%. Sammy’s is fortunate to have a population base of over 150,000 within a 15 mile radius (based on the 2000 US Census). In spite of that, we have used rather conservative estimates of utilization (about 20%) in deriving our projected revenues. But it is worthy to note that if our course utilization were only 10% (half of the 20% projection), we would still break even. This huge margin of error should satisfy even the most skeptical reader.

7.3 Projected Cash Flow

With a first reading, the projected cash flow numbers appear unrealistic. Allow us to reinforce information given in the notes to the sales forecast.

• The numbers have been verified by Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders. Mulligan-Bogey has built over 400 successful courses in the last ten years and they are well aware of the revenues of their courses.
• The revenue numbers were presented to two separate owners who have opened courses within the last three years. The owners felt the revenue estimates were conservative, but accurate for planning purposes.
• Even if, for some catastrophic reason, the actual revenues were substantially lower, the reader can see this business will still be profitable, with positive cash balance from the first month.

Although the Cash Spending row in our projections contains only payroll expenses, we may choose to pay some bills (from the Bill Payments row) in fewer than 30 days, once the business is up and running; these would then also be part of cash spending. Our current projections, however, were designed conservatively.

The cost of the golf course includes everything except the scorecards. So no balls or clubs are included in the startup costs.

Along with a $20,000 option, Sammy’s will offer $1 lease for the first year. Although this initially sounds unacceptable, it is worth noting the owner will receive $20,000 for the option, and the property has been vacant and for sale for two years, without an offer.

Underwriters are working on an insurance quote. We have used the best estimate of insurance professionals.

The arcade will operate on a 50-50 split with an arcade company. We have shown the revenue as a sale and the arcade companies share as an expense.

7.4 Projected Profit and Loss

Estimates for financial projections are prepared with a conservative look at all aspects of the business. We have relied on three external sources for input and validation. We are in contact with two helpful course owners in similar demographic areas. One business has been operating for one year and the other for four years. Their input has been invaluable in comparing theoretical projections with reality. Another excellent source of data is Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders; they have built over 400 successful courses and are able to tell a prospective owner what to realistically expect.

It is important to note , based on their past experience, all three sources of information have agreed that our sales projections are either accurate or too low. They also agree the expense projections are either accurate, or too high. Thus we see a conservative forecast, giving both owner and investor a safety buffer.

Accounting and legal costs are projected at $1,250 at the outset for our Sub S Corporation, then another $500 for set-up by the accounting firm. The company will have its books reviewed each quarter; fees for accounting are listed below.

7.5 Projected Balance Sheet

The asset side of the balance sheet shows an accurate picture.

The Balance Sheet shows the current liabilities at a zero balance. This is because all purchases and payroll are paid on a cash basis. >/P>

The beauty of this business is beginning to become apparent. There is a reasonably high capital output, but the operation of the business is completed with virtually no inventory to purchase and low labor cost. When the reader combines this information with the fact that the sales forecast is conservative, one can see that success is assured.

7.6 Business Ratios

As noted earlier, this family entertainment business has no inventory and does not do sales on credit. Therefore several ratios normally deemed important by the reader will not show reasonable numbers. The high value for Profit Before Interest and Taxes is not an error.

The following table outlines some of the more important ratios from the Amusement and Recreation industry. The final column, Industry Profile, details specific ratios based on the industry as it is classified by the NAICS code 713990.

Builder's Estimate

Date:  May 28, 2004

Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders Inc., cannot guarantee income.  However, with locations similar to yours, we can project the following:

We hope these figures will be helpful to you.  We consider 100 players per hour to be 100% capacity; however, we have had customers tell us that 125 players per hour is not unrealistic. Also, consider that many golf courses are able to open for business before May 1 and remain open after October 1, which could further inflate these numbers.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to call anytime.

Mulligan-Bogey Leisure Builders

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A Sample Mini Golf Course Business Plan Template

Do you want to start a miniature golf company and need to write a plan? If YES, here is a sample mini golf business plan template & FREE feasibility report. Have you ever thought of owning a golf course but you can’t because of the massive investment involved?

If your answer is yes, then you should consider constructing a miniature golf course. Miniature golf courses have 18 marked holes that are numbered. Players must complete each hole in number order without skipping any hole.

Players use their putters to hit the golf ball from the tee area and straight into the hole. The objective is to make it into each hole in as few strokes as possible. The recommendation for an 18-hole miniature golf course is between 15,000 and 22,000 square feet for the playing surface. Interestingly, a site as small as 9,000 square feet can be accommodated.

1. Industry Overview

Miniature golf, also known as minigolf, mini-putt, crazy golf, or putt-putt, is an offshoot of the sport of golf focusing solely on the putting aspect of the parent game. The aim of the game is to score the lowest number of points. It is played on courses consisting of a series of holes (usually a multiple of 9) similar to its parent, but characterized by their short length (usually within 10 yards from tee to cup).

The game uses artificial putting surfaces (such as carpet, artificial turf, or concrete). Miniature golf course is a niche idea in the golf courses and country clubs industry and the industry is basically engaged in operating golf courses and country clubs that have dining and recreational facilities et al.

These facilities typically provide food and beverage services, equipment rental services and golf instruction. Golf courses can be public, private, semiprivate or an extension of a private country club. Activities in this industry does not include businesses that engage in golf driving ranges, miniature golf courses and resorts and hotels that have on-site golf courses.

The industry is experiencing steady growth in the last five years due to steadily rising consumer expenditure on recreation and culture, and growing spectator sport participation. Despite the fact that overall sport participation is currently at same level as it was in the last five years, participation in amateur sports peaked in 2012 and 2013, which boosted revenue for operators of local, community and grassroots facilities.

Government investment into large-scale sport infrastructure projects is a key source of revenue for industry participants and major redevelopments have also contributed to revenue growth over the last five years. Golf course green fees comprise the largest source of revenue for the industry, generating 33.9%. Green fees are fees paid by golfers who are not members of a country club but wish to play an individual round of golf.

According to data from the National Golf Foundation, golf participation rates have been falling for the past decade; some individuals find the “etiquette rules” (e.g. no cell phones, specific dress code) off-putting, while others find that the game takes too long to play.

As a result, the number of adults who played golf at least once in a year decreased by about 4.0 million in the five years to 2014 (latest public data available from the NGA). The Golf Courses & Country Clubs Industry is indeed a very large industry and pretty much thriving in developed countries such as United States of America, Canada, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia and Italy et al.

Statistics has it that in the united states of America alone, there are about 10,793 licensed and registered golf course & country clubs facilities responsible for employing about 308,033 employees and the industry rakes in a whooping sum of $23 billion annually with an annual growth rate projected at 1.2 percent. It is important to state that there are no establishments with a lion share of the available market in this industry.

Starting a mini golf course facility business in the United States of America can be stressful; it requires enough cash to acquire land large enough to accommodate the mini golf course and country club facility and also cash to equip the facility to meet the standard expected by members.

2. Executive Summary

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is a standard mini golf course and country club facility that will be located in a growing community in Montgomery – Alabama. Our basic aim of setting up the business is to contribute our quota in ensuring that people who live in Montgomery have a facility to play golf, stay fit by exercising regularly and maintain healthy lifestyle. We have been able to secure a standard facility in a central location in Montgomery.

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is going to become the number one family – focused miniature golf course and country club facility in the whole of Montgomery – Alabama and we will work hard to build our facility to match the needs of the average family in the community. Our mini golf course and country club has enough parking space to accommodate the number of people (golf players and spectators) we will accommodate per time.

We conducted a thorough research and feasibility studies and we were able to come to the conclusion that Montgomery community is the right place to build of mini golf course and country club. As a matter of fact, our major aim of starting Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is to encourage people to play golf and also to encourage families in the community to cultivate the habit of regularly exercising.

Our mini golf course is specifically designed to take care of standard miniature golf tournaments as approved by the World Minigolf Sport Federation (WMF), headquartered in Göteborg, Sweden, we have active childcare services for toddlers and we have membership packages that is highly discounted for families that enroll with us or groups who would want to make use of our golf course and country club for games, recreations and camping.

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club will be open 24 hours a day during weekends (Fridays to Sundays) and from 6:00 am to 12 midnight from Mondays to Thursdays in order for us to be able to accommodate people with different time preferences.

This is why we have made provisions effective floodlight system and also to recruit enough staff and to run shift amongst our workforce. Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is a family owned business with support from the State of Alabama.

The business will be managed by Frank Nelson, he has over 15 years’ experience as a leading community golf coach in the United States of America working with top golfers who have gone ahead to win laurels in golf tourneys both nationally and internationally. He is a proud member of SportAccord and the World Minigolf Sport Federation (WMF), headquartered in Göteborg, Sweden.

3. Our Products and Services

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is in the golf courses and country clubs industry to provide standard miniature golf course for residents of Montgomery – Alabama which is why we have been able to put up a facility that can help us achieve the goal.

We are optimistic that everyone who makes use of our facility will definitely derive huge value for their money. These are the services and amenities that will be made available to our clients;

• Operating miniature golf courses and country clubs
• Providing food and beverage services
• Providing golf equipment rental services
• Providing golf instruction services
• Memberships
• Golf course green use
• Food and beverages
• Other facility operation

4. Our Mission and Vision Statement

• Our Vision of starting Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is to build a world – class miniature golf course that will be listed amongst the top 5 in the world.
• Our mission for establishing Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is to create a platform for golf lovers to play the game and to be accredited as a miniature golf course that organizes World and Continental Championships in Europe, Asia and the United States.

Our Business Structure

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is in business to become the leading mini golf course facility in the whole of Montgomery – Alabama and we are fully aware that it will take the right facility, management and organizational structure to achieve our goal.

Our business will not only be built only for the purpose of giving our members value for their money, but also to make our work environment highly conducive for all our employees. We will provide them with facilities that will help them stay motivated and deliver on their various tasks and goals

In view of that, we have made provisions for the following positions to be occupied by highly qualified and experienced staff;

• President / Chief Executive Office – CEO

Mini Golf Course Manager

• Accountant / Cashier
• Marketing and Sales Officer
• Mini Golf Instructor (5)
• Training Assistants (10)
• Customer Care Executive / Front Desk Officer

5. Job Roles and Responsibilities

President/Chief Executive Officer – CEO:

• Increases management’s effectiveness by recruiting, selecting, orienting, training, coaching, counseling, and disciplining managers; communicating values, strategies, and objectives; assigning accountabilities; planning, monitoring, and appraising job results
• Creating, communicating, and implementing the organization’s vision, mission, and overall direction – i.e. leading the development and implementation of the overall organization’s strategy.
• Responsible for fixing prices and signing business deals
• Responsible for providing direction for the business
• Responsible for signing checks and documents on behalf of the company
• Evaluates the success of the organization
• Carrying out induction for new team members
• Responsible for managing the mini golf course
• Responsible for providing food and beverage services
• Handle golf equipment rental services
• Responsible for providing golf instruction services
• Manage membership and registration
• Manage mini golf course and country club green use
• Handle food and beverages
• Handle other relevant facility operation

Marketing and Sales Officer (2)

• Identify, prioritize, and reach out to new clients, and business opportunities et al
• Writing winning proposal documents, negotiate fees and rates in line with organizations’ policy
• Responsible for handling business research, market surveys and feasibility studies for clients
• Responsible for supervising implementation, advocate for the customer’s needs, and communicate with clients
• Document all customer contact and information
• Represent Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club in strategic meetings
• Help increase sales and growth for Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club.

Accountant/Cashier:

• Responsible for preparing financial reports, budgets, and financial statements for the organization
• Provides managements with financial analyses, development budgets, and accounting reports
• Responsible for financial forecasting and risks analysis.
• Performs cash management, general ledger accounting, and financial reporting for the organization
• Responsible for developing and managing financial systems and policies
• Responsible for administering payrolls
• Ensuring compliance with taxation legislation
• Handles all financial transactions for Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club
• Serves as internal auditor for Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club

Client Service Executive

• Welcomes members and potential members / clients by greeting them in person or on the telephone; answering or directing inquiries.
• Ensures that all contacts with clients (e-mail, walk-In center, SMS or phone) provides the client with a personalized customer service experience of the highest level
• Through interaction with clients on the phone, uses every opportunity to build client’s interest in the organization’s products and services
• Manages administrative duties assigned by the management in an effective and timely manner
• Consistently stays abreast of any new information on the organizations’ products, promotional campaigns etc. to ensure accurate and helpful information is supplied to clients when they make enquiries

Cleaners (3):

• Responsible for cleaning in and around the mini golf course
• Clean up after customers and clean work area.
• Wash glassware and utensils after each use.
• Maintain a clean working area by sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, cleaning of glass doors and windows, etc. if required.
• Ensure that toiletries and supplies don’t run out of stock
• Handle any other duty as assigned by the golf course manager.

6. SWOT Analysis

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is in business to provide mini golf course for golf lovers in Ashville – Alabama and also help its clients achieve their health and fitness goals and at the same time to make profits. We are aware that there are competitions in the golf course and country clubs industry which is why we took out time to conduct an effective SWOT Analysis before investing our hard earned money into the business.

We know that if we get things right before starting our mini golf course facility, we will not have to struggle before attract loyal clients. We hired the services of Dr. Tony Martins, a Business Consultant with bias in business structuring to help us conduct SWOT analysis for our organization and he did a pretty good job for us.

Here is a of the result we got from the SWOT analysis that was conducted on behalf of Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club, Montgomery – Alabama;

One of the obvious strengths that will definitely stand as a plus for Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is the fact that our facility is centrally located in a densely populated residential area in Montgomery – Alabama; our location is in fact one of our major strengths couple with the support from the State of Alabama.

We equally have a team of highly qualified professionals who will work with all our clients to achieve their aims or enrolling in our facility and lastly our membership package is one of the best that anybody living in Montgomery – Alabama can get; it is cheap and affordable.

We critically looked into our Business model and we were able to identify two major weakness. One is the fact that we are a new business and the second is the fact that we may not have the financial resources required to match up with existing golf facilities and even government own sports and recreation facilities in Alabama when it comes to acquiring latest golf equipment and generating the needed hypes that can drive traffic towards our facility.

• Opportunities:

We are centrally located in one of the busiest and densely populated areas in Ashville – Alabama and we are open to all the available opportunities that the city has to offer. We will be open 24 hours in a day during weekends (Fridays to Sundays) and from 6:00 am to 12 midnight from Mondays to Thursdays giving us the advantage to leverage on any available opportunity.

Some of the threats that are likely going to confront Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club are unfavorable government policies, demographic/social factors, downturn in the economy which is likely going to affect consumer spending and lastly, the emergence of new competitors within the same location where our mini golf course facility is located.

7. MARKET ANALYSIS

• Market Trends

Both the Golf Course and Country Club industry and the Sports and Recreation Facility industry has indeed benefited from recent marketing campaigns which is targeted towards encouraging people to participate in sports.

Going forward, many people who are part of the baby boomers generation are expected to sign up for health and fitness club memberships or make use of mini golf course and country club or sports and recreation facilities in their communities, as they become more health – conscious as they grow older. However, patrons of mini golf courses are anticipated to increasingly pick up membership from less expensive centers as against expensive all – inclusive clubs.

The trend in the golf course and country clubs industry is such that if a mini golf course facility is well positioned in a place where people can easily access without much stress, there is the likelihood that such facility will enjoy high patronage.

Just like in other business ventures, the owner of mini golf course and country club facilities are always looking for ways to increase their market share; they go as far as signing deals with high schools and also corporate organizations et al to make use of their facility. Some even go as far as organizing mini golf tourneys on a regular basis.

As a mini golf course grows, it becomes necessary for them to develop new service offerings or install new facilities that will help them attract more people. Little wonder some facilities now have fresh juice and smoothie bar within their facility to encourage people towards healthy drinking. In order words, it is very important for mini golf course facilities to continue to improvise if they want to grow their business.

8. Our Target Market

The target market for mini golf facilities cuts across people of different walks of life. The fact that people register in mini golf facilities for various reasons makes marketing the business interesting. The target market can be categorized into three various groups. The first group are the people who are looking towards shedding weight and staying healthy.

The other group of people are those who are interested in playing golf or learning how to play golf for fun or to compete at a national or international level and the last group of people are those (schools and golf clubs) who don’t have the required golf course or sports facilities for their students and sports club and would need a standard facility for training.

These are the category of people that we intend marketing our mini golf course and country club facility to;

• Working Class Adults / Corporate Executives
• Sport Clubs and Golf lovers
• Community and Cooperate organization
• Business People/Entrepreneurs
• Sports Men and Women
• College Students

Our competitive advantage

The golf course and country clubs industry is indeed a prolific and highly competitive industry. Clients will only enroll in your facility if they know that you can successfully help them learn how to play golf, achieve their health and fitness goals or provide the enabling environment and facility for them to achieve their sports goals.

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is centrally located in a densely populated residential area in Montgomery – Alabama; this is obviously going to give us an edge amongst our competitors. We equally have a team of highly qualified professionals who will work with all our clients to achieve their aims or enrolling in our mini golf course facility.

So also, our membership package is one of the best that anybody living in Alabama can get; it is cheap and affordable. Lastly, our employees will be well taken care of, and their welfare package will be among the best within our category in the industry. It will enable them to be more than willing to build the business with us and help deliver our set goals and objectives.

9. SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY

• Sources of Income

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is established with the aim of maximizing profits in the Golf Course and Country Clubs industry and we are going to ensure that we do all it takes to attract clients on a regular basis.

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club will generate income by offering the following services;

• Operating mini golf courses and country clubs

10. Sales Forecast

It is important to state that our sales forecast is based on the data gathered during our feasibility studies and also some of the assumptions readily available on the field. It would be hard to create a sales forecast with a newly opened business because the statistics that will be provided will be on a short – term basis.

Experts say that usually a business should be in operation for at least one year before they can generate the statistics that will be need to help in accurate forecasting; statistics should be at least one year old in order to show the trends and pattern in consumer spending.

We expect to register a minimum of 500 active members within our first year of operation and then in subsequent years we will grow our membership. Below are the sales projection for Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club, it is based on the location of our facility and the services and products that we will be offering to our clients (members);

• First Fiscal Year (FY1): $250,000
• Second Fiscal Year (FY2): $450,000
• Third Fiscal Year (FY3): $750,000

N.B: This projection was done based on what is obtainable in the industry and with the assumption that there won’t be any major competitor offering same services as we do within 4.5 miles radius from our facility.

• Marketing Strategy and Sales Strategy

Our marketing strategies will be directed towards achieving specific objectives that support the strategic goals of the organization. The truth is that all that we do will be geared towards creating new market channels, increasing sales and our market share. We will leverage on improving on our services and facility to ensure that we win new clients and retain old members.

At Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club, our marketing strategies will be consistent throughout the marketing mix and we will take into consideration continuous service improvement, promotion, and price. As part of our sales and marketing strategies, we will pay attention to the promotion of our mini golf course so as to attract people to enroll and become members. Part of the marketing and sales strategies that we will adopt are;

• Open our mini golf course and country club facility with a big party.
• Advertise our mini golf course and country club facility on national dailies, local TV and radio stations
• Promote our mini golf course and country home facility online via our official website and all available social media platforms
• Introduce our mini golf course and country club facility by sending introductory letters alongside our brochure to sports clubs, schools, corporate organizations, households and key stake holders in Montgomery – Alabama
• Print out fliers and business cards and strategically drop them in offices, libraries, public facilities and train stations et al.
• Making our first impression count positively to those making use of our mini golf facility for the first time
• Make use of attractive hand bills to create awareness and also to give direction to our mini golf course and country club facility
• Adopt direct mailing coupon marketing approach
• Position our signage/flexi banners at strategic places in and around Ashville – Alabama
• Create a loyalty plan that will enable us reward our consistent members especially those that registered as a family

11. Publicity and Advertising Strategy

We have been able to work with our branding and publicity consultants to help us map out publicity and advertising strategies that will help us walk our way into the hearts of our target market. We are set to become the number one choice in the whole of Montgomery – Alabama which is why we have made provisions for effective publicity and advertisement of our golf course and country club facility.

Below are the platforms we intend to leverage on to promote and advertise Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club;

• Place adverts on both print (community based newspapers and magazines) and electronic media platforms
• Sponsor relevant community based golf tourneys or sport events and competitions
• Leverage on the internet and social media platforms like; Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Google + et al to promote our brand
• Install our Billboards in strategic locations all around Montgomery – Alabama.
• Distribute our fliers and handbills in target areas
• List Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club on local directories / yellow pages
• Advertise our mini golf course and country club facility in our official website and employ strategies that will help us pull traffic to the site.
• Ensure that all our staff members wear our branded shirts and all our vehicles are well branded with our corporate logo et al.

12. Our Pricing Strategy

Basically, a mini golf course that is open 120 days a year, and charges $7.50 per round, with a maximum of 80 rounds per hour and has 25 percent capacity during the daytime and 50 percent at nighttime, generates an estimated annual revenue of $333,000.

With the above, our pricing system is going to be based on what is obtainable in the industry, we don’t intend to charge more (except for premium and customized services) and we don’t intend to charge less than what our competitors are charging their members in Montgomery – Alabama.

Be that as it may, we have put plans in place to offer discount services once in a while and also to reward our loyal customers especially when they refer clients to us or when they register as a family or sports club or schools.

• Payment Options

At Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club, our payment policy will be all inclusive because we are quite aware that different clients would prefer different payment options as it suits them. Here are the payment options that we will make available to our clients;

• Payment by via bank transfer
• Payment via online bank transfer
• Payment via check
• Payment via bank draft
• Payment via mobile money
• Payment with cash

In view of the above, we have chosen banking platforms that will help us achieve our plans with little or no hitches.

13. Startup Expenditure (Budget)

These are the key areas where you are expected to spend your startup capital on;

• The total fee for registering the business in the United States of America – $750.
• Legal expenses for obtaining licenses and permits as well as the accounting services (software, P.O.S machines and other software) – $3,300.
• Marketing promotion expenses for the grand opening of the mini golf course in the amount of $3,500 and as well as flyer printing (2,000 flyers at $0.04 per copy) for the total amount of $3,580.
• The total cost for hiring a business consultant including writing a business plan – $2,500.
• The total cost for the purchase of insurance (general liability, workers’ compensation and property casualty) coverage at a total premium – $2,400.
• The cost for renting or leasing a facility that will be converted into the mini golf course and country club and that can accommodate the number of customers per time (Re – construction of the facility inclusive) will cost – $300,000.
• Other start-up expenses including, commercial satellite TV subscriptions, stationery ($500) and phone and utility deposits ($2,800).
• Operational cost for the first 3 months (salaries of employees, payments of bills et al) – $80,000
• The cost for start-up inventory (stocking with a wide range of drinks and food) – $15,000
• The cost for the purchase of storage hardware (bins, rack, shelves, food case) – $3,720
• The cost for counter area equipment (counter top, sink, ice machine, etc.) – $9,500
• The cost for serving area equipment (plates, ash trays, glasses, flatware) – $3,000
• The cost for store equipment (cash register, security, ventilation, signage) – $4,750
• The cost of purchase and installation of CCTVs: $2,000
• Equipping the arcade game lounge (different sizes and types of game machines, Flat Screen TVs, sound system, DVD players, Satellite dish and decoder, furniture (table, stools and sofas), telephones, filing cabinets) will cost – $80,000
• The cost of launching a website: $600
• The cost for our opening party: $3,000
• Miscellaneous: $2,000

From the rough estimate as listed above, you would need a minimum of five hundred and ninety – eight thousand nine hundred USD ($598,900) to establish a medium – scale but standard and well – equipped mini golf facility in Montgomery – Alabama.

Generating Funds/Startup Capital for Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is owned and managed by Frank Nelson and family. They decided to restrict the sourcing of the startup capital for the business to just three major sources.

• Generate part of the startup capital from personal savings and sale of his stocks
• Generate part of the startup capital from friends and other extended family members
• Generate a larger chunk of the startup capital from the bank (loan facility).

N.B: We have been able to generate about $200,000 (Personal savings $150,000 and soft loan from family members $50,000) and we are at the final stages of obtaining a loan facility of $400,000 from our bank. All the papers and documents have been duly signed and submitted, the loan has been approved and any moment from now our account will be credited.

14. Sustainability and Expansion Strategy

The future of a business lies in the number of loyal customers that they have, the capacity and competence of their employees, their investment strategy and the business structure. If all of these factors are missing from a business (company), then it won’t be too long before the business close shop.

One of our major goals of starting Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club is to build a business that will survive off its own cash flow without injecting finance from external sources once the business is officially running. We know that one of the ways of gaining approval and winning customers over in our mini golf facility is to equip our facility with state of the art gym and fitness equipment et al.

Frank Nelson™ Mini Golf Course & Country Club will make sure that the right foundation, structures and processes are put in place to ensure that our staff welfare are well taken of. Our company’s corporate culture is designed to drive our business to greater heights and training and retraining of our workforce is at the top burner.

As a matter of fact, profit-sharing arrangement will be made available to all our management staff and it will be based on their performance for a period of ten years or more. We know that if that is put in place, we will be able to successfully hire and retain the best hands we can get in the industry; they will be more committed to help us build the business of our dreams.

Check List/Milestone

• Business Name Availability Check: Completed
• Business Registration: Completed
• Opening of Corporate Bank Accounts: Completed
• Securing Point of Sales (POS) Machines: Completed
• Opening Mobile Money Accounts: Completed
• Opening Online Payment Platforms: Completed
• Application and Obtaining Tax Payer’s ID: In Progress
• Application for business license and permit: Completed
• Purchase of Insurance for the Business: Completed
• Acquiring facility and remodeling the facility: In Progress
• Conducting Feasibility Studies: Completed
• Generating capital from family members: Completed
• Applications for Loan from the bank: In Progress
• Writing of Business Plan: Completed
• Drafting of Employee’s Handbook: Completed
• Drafting of Contract Documents and other relevant Legal Documents: In Progress
• Design of The Company’s Logo: Completed
• Printing of Promotional Materials: In Progress
• Recruitment of employees: In Progress
• Purchase of the needed golf, game machines and accessories, gym and fitness equipment, electronic appliances, office appliances and suppliers: In progress
• Creating Official Website for the Company: Completed
• Creating Awareness for the business both online and in the neighborhood: In Progress
• Health and Safety and Fire Safety Arrangement (License): Secured
• Opening party/launching party planning: In Progress

More on Sports

How to Start a Miniature Golf Course

While the primary feature of this business is the mini-golf itself, many such businesses include other features such as arcade games, food, and activities like a climbing wall. This allows the business to bill itself as a kid-friendly entertainment center and achieve more year-round business.

Learn how to start your own Miniature Golf Course and whether it is the right fit for you.

Ready to form your LLC? Check out the Top LLC Formation Services .

Start a miniature golf course by following these 10 steps:

• Plan your Miniature Golf Course
• Form your Miniature Golf Course into a Legal Entity
• Register your Miniature Golf Course for Taxes
• Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
• Set up Accounting for your Miniature Golf Course
• Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Miniature Golf Course
• Get Miniature Golf Course Insurance
• Define your Miniature Golf Course Brand
• Create your Miniature Golf Course Website
• Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your miniature golf course. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas .

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

What will you name your business?

• What are the startup and ongoing costs?
• Who is your target market?

How much can you charge customers?

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Miniature Golf Course Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship , you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name , we recommend researching your business name by checking:

• Your state's business records
• Federal and state trademark records
• Social media platforms
• Web domain availability .

It's very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

Want some help naming your miniature golf course?

Business name generator, what are the costs involved in opening a miniature golf course.

The costs of opening a mini-golf business vary, but typically run up $500,000. One professional group estimates that it will cost between $15,000 to $30,000 to put a deposit on the land lease, and a further $100,000 to $140,000 to make all of the necessary improvements to the land itself. Providing the necessary decorations and moving elements of the course itself, as well as interior decorations, furniture, and arcade games, can add an additional $200,000. You will also need to pay between $7,500 and $15,000 for architectural plans and between $2,000 to $4,000 for insurance deposits. Basic equipment (including office computers supplies, computers, ticket machines, etc.) will be between $8,000 and $10,000, with the point of sale system costing up to an additional $7,500. To stock up on golf balls, clubs, and redemption prizes for games may cost up to $15,000, and legal and accounting fees may be as high as $4,000. Finally, you may require up to $9,000 to order eye-catching signage and up to $12,000 to advertise your grand opening.

What are the ongoing expenses for a miniature golf course?

The good news is that after the initial expenses to open a course, the ongoing expenses are relatively minor. Some of the costs will vary by business location and size, but utilities should be about $1,500 a month, and insurance about $500. Fresh supplies can run about $400 a month, while rent may be upwards of $6,000. Beyond that, your main concern will be paying the wage for your workers (typically $4,000 or so a month for a manager, and an appropriate hourly rate for other employees).

Who is the target market?

In general, your best clients will be families. This is because the parents will help to control the behavior of children (which will not be true of all your teenage customers), and larger families provide more cash at a time than smaller groups of customers. And they help create lifelong business for you as the children who enjoy the experience will enjoy coming back as they get older and eventually bring their own children.

How does a miniature golf course make money?

A mini-golf business simply charges customers a set fee in order for the customers to play on the course.

The exact cost may vary by region, but it is typical to charge customers about $5 to $7 to play 18 holes. This pricing makes your business a very competitive alternative to the increasingly pricey activities going out to movies, restaurants, etc.

How much profit can a miniature golf course make?

The exact amount of profit your business makes greatly depends on the region as well as what the local entertainment competition is. However, the relatively low ongoing expenses means that a steady stream of customers can easily make you over $100,000 a year, and some mini golf course owners report being able to pay off their initial investment within the first few years of opening this business.

How can you make your business more profitable?

In order to maximize profitability, be sure to have an advertising presence in logical areas for potential customers, including schools, churches, and local entertainment centers. Try to stay open as many days as possible—major holidays often prove to be big business for mini-golf courses, as people have time off from work and school and are happy to come out and play. Finally, be sure to have a social media presence that heavily features pictures of actual customers and their testimonials, as this will establish the legitimacy of your business within the community.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC's free Small Business Startup Guide - a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

The most common business structure types are the sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC) , and corporation .

Establishing a legal business entity such as an LLC or corporation protects you from being held personally liable if your miniature golf course is sued.

Form Your LLC

Read our Guide to Form Your Own LLC

Have a Professional Service Form your LLC for You

Two such reliable services:

You can form an LLC yourself and pay only the minimal state LLC costs or hire one of the Best LLC Services for a small, additional fee.

Recommended: You will need to elect a registered agent for your LLC. LLC formation packages usually include a free year of registered agent services . You can choose to hire a registered agent or act as your own.

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It's really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website . If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil .

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

• Separates your personal assets from your company's assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
• Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

• Separate personal and business expenses by putting your business' expenses all in one place.
• Build your company's credit history , which can be useful to raise money later on.

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a mini-golf business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits .

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses .

Certificate of Occupancy

Miniature Golf Courses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO). A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

• If you plan to lease a rink location :
• It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
• Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a mini golf course.
• After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
• If you plan to purchase or build a rink :
• You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
• Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your golf course will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

Music Licensing

In order to play music in a public setting, permission must be acquired from the composer or license holder. Typically, it is possible to obtain a  “blanket” license allowing a businesses to play music owned by a large catalog of artists and recording studios. Such licenses can be obtained from Performance Rights Organizations, such as ASCAP and BMI.

Learn more about music licensing requirements and how to obtain a blanket license here: https://printing.wsu.edu/copyright/

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance . This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance . If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers' Compensation Coverage.

FInd out what types of insurance your Miniature Golf Course needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Miniature Golf Course.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you aren't feeling confident about designing your small business logo, then check out our Design Guides for Beginners , we'll give you helpful tips and advice for creating the best unique logo for your business.

Recommended : Get a logo using Truic's free logo Generator no email or sign up required, or use a Premium Logo Maker .

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator . Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a miniature golf course

For your initial advertising rush, it's good to do a mixture of television, radio, newspaper, and online advertising. This helps you become established within the community. Over time, though, online advertising via social media and your website will be easy and virtually free, and it provides a natural venue with which to engage younger customers.

How to keep customers coming back

As mentioned earlier, one of the best ways to attract and retain customers is to encourage customers to have birthday parties and other events at your course. You can also have special days and times with certain promotions (such as bringing in four friends and getting a free game, or lower prices past a certain hour) in order to encourage more customers. Finally, within your budget, try to add interactive arcade games and other experiences that customers cannot easily have at home. This is one of the reasons that things like pinball, skeeball, and unconventional games like Dance Dance Revolution retain their popularity—customers cannot replicate these experiences easily at home.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business .

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

• All legitimate businesses have websites - full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
• Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
• Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended : Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders .

Other popular website builders are: WordPress , WIX , Weebly , Squarespace , and Shopify .

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2023 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it's fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

This job is definitely for someone who is enthusiastic about mini-golf. This helps you to not only enjoy your job but to facilitate minor repairs and maintenance of the course as needed. The job is also best for a “people person,” as you will be dealing with individuals and groups of very different ages, personalities, and temperament, and it takes a special skill to deal with everyone courteously and professionally.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a miniature golf course?

The daily activities for a mini-golf business are pretty simple. You will be talking to customers, taking their payment, providing them with equipment, and explaining any particular regulations for your course. Other time will be spent fixing and maintaining the course, ordering additional equipment when needed, and networking with other local businesses to help promote yourself. If you end up investing more and adding features such as arcade games, your daily activities may include the maintenance and repair of those machines as well.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful miniature golf course?

Prior experience working at a mini-golf business or other type of recreational center can be helpful to in starting this business. Similarly, being part of a network of other youth recreational venues in the area can help you in advertising and establishing your business. Finally, a formal education in a field such as business can help ensure that your early investments pay off.

What is the growth potential for a miniature golf course?

The exact growth potential of a mini-golf business varies by area. Nationally, businesses that focus purely on mini-golf have experienced a decline in recent years; however, businesses that have diversified their offerings by including features such as a video arcade typically do quite well, and the affordability of this as an entertainment option remains highly attractive to local residents in many cities.

TRUiC's YouTube Channel

For fun informative videos about starting a business visit the TRUiC YouTube Channel or subscribe to view later.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor.

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a miniature golf course?

Make sure that you prominently advertise your business as a fun place for families and friends to throw birthday parties and other special events. Similarly, you may want to court local businesses and corporations to see if they would like to have any fun events at your location. Within your budget, make sure the decorations of the course itself are very dynamic and engaging—this will be the kind of thing prospective customers see from the road, so it needs to be good!

How and when to build a team

The nature of this job means that you will need staff from the very beginning, as it is difficult to manage the entire course, help out customers playing, and to process new customers as they arrive. Beyond that, you will typically expand your team in reaction to increased business, increased operating hours, or increased services offered.

Useful Links

Industry opportunities.

• Mini Golf Franchise Opportunity
• Mini Golf Directory

Real World Examples

• NYC’s 5 best mini golf courses
• Interview with mini golf owner

Further Reading

• Sample Business Plan
• The Future of the Mini Golf Industry
• Learn about more Family Fun Business Ideas!

Have a Question? Leave a Comment!

Start Your Mini Golf Venture with Confidence

Main Sections In This Post Steps To Starting A Miniature Golf Course Business Points to Consider Knowledge Is Power Featured Video

This post offers a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to initiate a miniature golf course business, complete with examples and samples.

It includes links to up-to-date knowledge resources suitable for both startup and established businesses.

Given the wealth of information, consider sharing and bookmarking for future reference.

Let’s get started with the steps.

The Steps to Take To Start Your Miniature Golf Course Business

Below are the steps to starting a miniature golf course business.

Each step is linked to a specific section, allowing you to jump to your desired section or scroll to follow the steps in order.

• An Overview of What You’re Getting Into
• Miniature Golf Course Business Overview
• Researching Your Miniature Golf Course Business
• Looking at Financials
• Creating Your Mission Statement
• Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
• Choose a Miniature Golf Course Business Name
• Register Your Company
• Create Your Corporate Identity
• Writing a Business Plan
• Banking Considerations
• Getting the Funds for Your Operation
• Software Setup
• Business Insurance Considerations
• Supplier and Service Provider Considerations
• Setting Your Prices
• Physical Setup
• Creating a Website
• Create an External Support Team
• Hiring Employees
• Getting Customers Through the Door

1. An Overview of What You’re Getting Into

Passion Fuels Success

The Importance of Passion in Business

Passion is a powerful catalyst for success in the miniature golf course business. It’s the driving force that propels entrepreneurs to overcome obstacles and find innovative solutions. Without passion, challenges can become insurmountable barriers.

Passion: Problem Solver or Problem Seeker

Passionate entrepreneurs view problems as opportunities. They tackle issues head-on, seeking solutions that benefit their business. In contrast, those lacking passion tend to avoid problems, often seeking an exit strategy when faced with challenges.

Measuring Your Passion

A Litmus Test for Passion

To gauge your passion for your miniature golf course business, ask yourself: “Would I run this business for free if money were not a concern?” A resounding “yes” indicates your strong passion and dedication.

Passion’s True Calling

Aligning Passion with Purpose

If the idea of running a miniature golf course business doesn’t ignite your passion, consider exploring your true calling. Pursuing what genuinely excites you can lead to a more fulfilling and successful entrepreneurial journey.

Passion: The Cornerstone of Success

In summary, passion is the cornerstone of success in the miniature golf course business. It drives perseverance, creativity, and a deep commitment to your venture, ultimately increasing the likelihood of achieving your goals.

For More, See How Passion Affects Your Business . Also, see Considerations Before You Start Your Business to identify key points for a new business owner.

2. Gaining an Overview of Owning a Miniature Golf Course Business

Next, let’s spend some time on key issues to give you an overview of what to expect from owning and running your business.

a.) A Quick Overview of Owning a Miniature Golf Course Business

A miniature golf course business is a recreational venture centered around miniature golf, a scaled-down version of traditional golf played on unique, whimsical courses.

Also known as mini-golf or putt-putt, it’s a family-friendly activity that combines fun and skill.

A miniature golf course typically features an assortment of obstacles, challenging holes, and creative themes to entertain players of all ages.

Day-to-Day Tasks in Managing a Miniature Golf Course Business

Running and managing a miniature golf course business involves a variety of tasks to ensure smooth operations and a satisfying experience for customers. Here’s a summary of day-to-day responsibilities:

• Course Maintenance: Regularly inspect, clean, and maintain the course. Ensure that obstacles, greens, and pathways are in good condition.
• Customer Service: Interact with customers, provide guidance, and handle inquiries and reservations. Maintain a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
• Marketing and Promotion: Develop and implement marketing strategies to attract customers. Manage social media, website updates, and promotional campaigns.
• Staff Management: Hire, train, and schedule employees for various roles, including ticket sales, course supervision, and event coordination.
• Financial Management: Oversee daily financial transactions, including ticket sales and merchandise purchases. Keep accurate records and manage cash flow .
• Event Planning: Organize special events, parties, and tournaments. Coordinate bookings and ensure all arrangements are in place.
• Inventory Control: Manage merchandise inventory, ensuring a well-stocked pro shop if applicable.
• Safety and Security: Implement safety protocols to protect customers and staff. Monitor and respond to any security concerns.
• Landscaping and Groundskeeping: Maintain landscaping around outdoor courses to enhance its appearance and ambiance.
• Accounting and Record-Keeping: Keep detailed financial records, track expenses, and prepare reports for tax purposes.
• Continuous Improvement: Regularly assess customer feedback and make improvements based on suggestions. Experiment with new course designs and themes to keep the experience fresh.
• Community Engagement: Connect with the local community through partnerships, sponsorships, and participation in local events.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure that the business complies with local regulations and obtains necessary permits and licenses.

Managing a miniature golf course business requires a balance of creativity, customer service, and operational efficiency.

Providing an enjoyable and memorable experience for customers while effectively overseeing day-to-day operations is key to its success.

b.) Miniature Golf Course Business Models

Types of Miniature Golf Course Business Setups and Business Models

Traditional Miniature Golf Course:

• Business Model:  Offering a classic miniature golf experience with creative obstacle layouts and themed holes. Revenue primarily generated through ticket sales and merchandise.

Indoor Miniature Golf:

• Business Model:  Operating mini-golf courses indoors, often in malls, entertainment complexes, or standalone facilities. Additional income streams may include arcade games, party rentals, and concessions.

Adventure or Themed Mini-Golf:

• Business Model:  Creating immersive, themed courses like pirate adventures, jungle safaris, or fantasy worlds. This model attracts families and tourists willing to pay premium prices for unique experiences.

Miniature Golf and Entertainment Complex:

• Business Model:  Combining miniature golf with other entertainment options such as go-karts, batting cages, laser tag , or arcades. Diversifying revenue streams through various attractions.

Mobile Mini-Golf:

• Business Model:  Taking miniature golf to various locations, like events, parties, or corporate gatherings. Revenue comes from booking fees and event packages.

Miniature Golf Resort:

• Business Model:  Integrating miniature golf into a larger resort or recreational facility. Miniature golf complements other amenities like hotels, restaurants, and water parks, attracting a broader customer base.

Adult-Focused Miniature Golf:

• Business Model:  Catering to adults with challenging courses, upscale themes, and the inclusion of a bar or restaurant. Revenue boosted by ticket sales, food, and beverages.

Miniature Golf Franchise:

• Business Model:  Joining a franchise network, following a proven business model. Franchisees benefit from established branding, marketing support, and standardized operations.

Choosing the Right Business Model

Selecting the appropriate miniature golf course business model is critical from the outset.

Each model caters to a different demographic and offers distinct revenue streams. Consider factors like location, target audience, available capital, and personal preferences.

Identifying a profitable and high-demand niche for your miniature golf course business is essential. Conduct market research to understand your local customer base and their preferences.

By aligning your business model with customer needs and trends, you can increase your chances of success and create a memorable miniature golf experience that stands out in the market.

Remember that switching your business model later can be challenging, so thoughtful planning at the outset is crucial.

c.) Making Your Miniature Golf Course Business Stand Out

Ideas to Make Your Miniature Golf Course Business Stand Out:

• Thematic Excellence: Develop unique and captivating themes for your course. Whether it’s a mystical enchanted forest, a bustling cityscape, or a pirate adventure, thematic excellence creates a memorable and immersive experience.
• Glow-in-the-Dark Mini-Golf: Offer a glow-in-the-dark mini-golf experience with fluorescent paint and blacklighting. This nighttime attraction adds excitement and a unique twist to the traditional game.
• Interactive Obstacles: Incorporate interactive obstacles like moving windmills, water features, and sound effects that engage players and provide an extra layer of challenge and fun.
• Championship Tournaments: Host miniature golf tournaments with attractive prizes. These events can draw competitive players and create a sense of community around your course.
• Mini-Golf Leagues: Organize mini-golf leagues for enthusiasts looking for regular play. Leagues encourage repeat visits and build a loyal customer base.
• Birthday Party Packages: Offer all-inclusive birthday party packages, complete with mini-golf, party rooms, decorations, and catering. Create hassle-free experiences for parents and lasting memories for children.
• Corporate Events: Target corporate clients by providing team-building events and corporate party packages. Businesses often seek unique venues for their employees’ recreational activities and team-building exercises.
• Themed Events and Nights: Host themed nights, such as “80s Retro Night” or “Superhero Saturdays.” These events attract different audiences and keep your course exciting and fresh.
• Special Discounts: Implement loyalty programs , discounts for repeat visitors, and referral incentives to encourage customer retention and word-of-mouth referrals.
• Social Media Engagement: Maintain a strong social media presence, regularly sharing updates, challenges, and promotions. Encourage customers to share their experiences on platforms like Instagram and Facebook.
• Seasonal Decorations: Decorate your course to match seasonal holidays and events. Halloween, Christmas, and other seasonal themes can attract more visitors during specific times of the year.
• Educational Programs: Collaborate with local schools to offer educational programs that teach geometry and physics through mini-golf. This approach fosters community ties and introduces children to your course.
• Live Entertainment: Occasionally feature live music, magicians, or other entertainers to enhance the overall experience. Live events can attract a broader audience and create memorable outings.
• Local Art Installations: Partner with local artists to create mini-golf course art installations or sculptures. This not only supports the local art community but also adds aesthetic appeal to your course.

d.) Add-ons for a Miniature Golf Course Business

• Arcade Games: Install an arcade area with classic and modern games to offer a broader range of entertainment options.
• Café or Snack Bar: Include a café or snack bar serving refreshments, ice cream, and light meals for hungry players and spectators.
• Party Rooms: Set up dedicated party rooms for birthdays and events, complete with decorations and catering options.
• Go-Kart Track: If space permits, consider adding a go-kart track to your facility, offering an exciting complement to mini-golf.
• Batting Cages: Install batting cages for baseball and softball enthusiasts, providing another recreational activity for visitors.
• Bumper Boats: If water features are feasible, consider adding bumper boats to your attraction, especially in warmer climates.
• Laser Tag: Incorporate a laser tag arena for action-packed team games that appeal to a broader age group.
• Outdoor Seating: Create outdoor seating areas where visitors can relax, enjoy refreshments, and watch others play.
• Merchandise Shop: Expand your pro shop to offer a wider selection of mini-golf-related merchandise, including branded apparel and souvenirs.
• Virtual Reality Mini-Golf: Introduce virtual reality mini-golf experiences, appealing to tech-savvy customers seeking a unique twist on the game.
• Event Spaces: Offer event spaces for weddings, parties, and corporate gatherings, capitalizing on your picturesque course as a backdrop.
• Practice Putting Greens: Set up practice putting greens for golf enthusiasts looking to improve their putting skills.
• Mini-Golf Academy: Provide lessons and workshops for players interested in honing their mini-golf skills.
• Outdoor Movie Screenings: Host outdoor movie nights on your course, combining mini-golf with cinematic entertainment for a memorable evening.
• VIP Memberships: Create VIP memberships with exclusive benefits like unlimited play, discounts, and access to special events.

Enhancing your miniature golf course business with these add-ons and unique offerings not only diversifies your revenue streams but also makes your establishment more appealing to a broader range of customers.

Carefully consider your target audience and market demand when selecting the most suitable add-ons for your business.

e.) Pros and Cons of Owning a Business

Owning and operating a business brings both benefits and challenges.

While the rewards are enticing, it’s essential not to overlook potential obstacles.

Understanding the possible problems allows for better preparation and minimizes surprises in the entrepreneurial journey.

For more, see Pros and Cons of Starting a Small Business.

f.) Challenges You Could Face When Starting and Operating a Miniature Golf Course Business

Challenges When Starting a Miniature Golf Course Business:

• Initial Capital: Securing the necessary funds for land acquisition, course construction, and equipment can be a significant hurdle.
• Location Selection: Finding the right location with sufficient foot traffic and visibility is crucial for success.
• Regulations and Permits: Navigating local zoning regulations, permits, and environmental approvals can be time-consuming and complex.
• Thematic Design: Creating engaging and unique course themes while staying within budget can be challenging.
• Competition: Assessing and differentiating from existing courses in the area is essential to attract customers.
• Marketing: Building brand awareness and attracting the first wave of customers requires effective marketing strategies.
• Course Maintenance: Setting up regular maintenance schedules and hiring skilled personnel is vital for course longevity.
• Staffing: Recruiting, training, and retaining employees who can provide excellent customer service is a constant challenge.
• Weather Dependency: Weather conditions can significantly impact business, especially in seasonal locations.

Challenges When Miniature Golf Course Business is in Full Operation:

• Seasonal Fluctuations: Managing revenue fluctuations during off-peak seasons and maximizing profits during peak times.
• Course Wear and Tear: Maintaining course quality and appearance as obstacles and greens are subjected to continuous use.
• Customer Retention: Ensuring repeat visits and customer loyalty through incentives and promotions.
• Cost Control: Managing operational expenses, including utilities, payroll, and maintenance, while maintaining profitability.
• Legal Compliance: Staying updated with changing regulations and safety standards to avoid legal issues.
• Market Trends: Adapting to changing customer preferences and staying competitive with evolving trends.
• Insurance: Continuously evaluating and updating insurance coverage to protect against liabilities.
• Marketing and Promotion: Sustaining effective marketing efforts to attract new customers and maintain interest among regulars.
• Community Engagement: Nurturing relationships with the local community through sponsorships, events, and partnerships.
• Inventory Management: Efficiently managing inventory in pro shops and concessions to minimize waste and maximize profits.
• Customer Feedback: Collecting and acting on customer feedback to enhance the overall experience.
• Competition: Responding to new competitors or changes in the competitive landscape.
• Safety Protocols: Ensuring the safety of customers and staff by implementing and enforcing safety procedures.
• Operational Efficiency: Continuously seeking ways to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs.
• Long-Term Planning: Developing a long-term strategy to sustain and grow the business while staying relevant in the market.

Operating a miniature golf course business comes with ongoing challenges, from maintaining the course to adapting to market dynamics.

Successful owners navigate these obstacles through proactive planning, effective management, and a commitment to delivering a memorable experience for their customers.

g.) Questions You Need to Consider for Your Miniature Golf Course Business

Before launching your miniature golf course business, addressing these essential questions is crucial for a well-prepared start:

• Business Model: Determine your chosen miniature golf course business model, whether it’s a traditional course, themed experience, or part of an entertainment complex.
• Skills and Abilities: Assess your readiness to manage and operate a miniature golf course business. Recognize areas where additional skills or knowledge may be required.
• Staffing: Decide whether you’ll handle all operations independently or if you need to hire employees, including a manager.
• Customer Acquisition: Develop strategies for attracting customers, considering marketing, promotions, and partnerships.
• Customer Retention: Plan methods to maintain customer loyalty, such as loyalty programs, special events, and outstanding service.
• Financing: Explore funding options for startup costs, including equipment, construction, and operational expenses.
• Profitability Timeline: Estimate the time it takes to become profitable, understanding that the initial phase can be financially challenging.
• Personal Financial Support: Determine how you’ll support yourself during the early stages when the business may not generate substantial income.
• Unique Value Proposition: Define what sets your miniature golf course apart from competitors and why customers will choose your establishment.

By addressing these questions comprehensively, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of your business model, target market, and the steps needed to ensure a successful start and sustained growth in the competitive miniature golf course industry.

3. Research

Inside information miniature golf course business research.

Research for Informed Decisions

Before Embarking on a Miniature Golf Course Business, Thorough Research Is Essential.

Quality Information Matters

Gaining Insights from Experienced Operators Ensures You Know What to Expect.

Tapping into Expertise

Experienced Miniature Golf Course Operators Are Invaluable Sources of Knowledge.

Priceless Wisdom

Time Spent with Industry Experts Offers Insights from Years of Experience.

Seeking the Right Experts

Identifying and Approaching Knowledgeable Individuals Requires Strategic Approaches.

Guidance for Success

“An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start” Offers Strategies for Identifying and Consulting with Experts.

Preparedness for Success

Effective Research and Expert Consultation Ensure You Enter the Miniature Golf Course Business Well-Prepared.

See An Inside Look Into the Business You Want To Start for all the details.

Supply, Demand, and Your Location

Assessing Market Demand for Your Miniature Golf Course Business

Determining demand for your miniature golf course business in your chosen location is essential for long-term success.

Here are simple strategies to gauge market demand effectively:

• Market Research: Conduct thorough market research to understand your target audience’s preferences and interests. Analyze demographics, such as age groups, income levels, and leisure activities.
• Competitive Analysis: Study existing miniature golf courses in the area. Identify their strengths and weaknesses, pricing strategies, and customer reviews. Look for gaps in the market that your business can fill.
• Surveys and Questionnaires: Create surveys or questionnaires to gather feedback from potential customers. Ask about their interest in miniature golf, what they expect from a course, and pricing expectations.
• Focus Groups: Organize focus group discussions with individuals from your target market. These sessions provide in-depth insights into customer preferences and opinions.
• Online Presence: Leverage social media and online forums to engage with your local community. Share polls and posts to gauge interest in miniature golf and gather feedback.
• Collaborations: Partner with local businesses or event organizers to host miniature golf-related events or promotions. This can serve as a test run to assess interest.
• Pilot Testing: Consider opening a pop-up or temporary miniature golf course to gauge local interest and collect real-world data before committing to a permanent location.
• Networking: Attend local events, join community groups, and network with potential customers. Discuss your business idea and gather feedback.
• Consult Experts: Seek advice from industry experts and business mentors. They can provide valuable insights into market dynamics and demand trends.

By employing these strategies, you can accurately assess market demand for your miniature golf course business in your chosen location.

This information will guide your business decisions and increase the likelihood of a successful venture.

For more, see the Demand for Your Products and Services and Choosing The Best Location for Your Business.

Target Audience

Understanding your target audience brings several benefits. It allows you to tailor your offerings to their preferences and needs, increasing the likelihood of customer satisfaction.

This focus enables efficient resource allocation and marketing strategies, optimizing your business’s performance.

Target Market Ideas:

• Families seeking recreational activities
• Couples searching for date night ideas
• Tourists looking for local attractions
• Event planners organizing group outings
• Parents planning children’s birthday parties
• Companies arranging team-building activities
• School groups on field trips
• Senior citizens seeking leisure activities
• Sports enthusiasts exploring alternative hobbies
• Community members supporting local businesses

For more, see How To Understand Your Target Market.

4. Looking at Financials:

When starting a miniature golf course business, understanding the financial aspects is critical to its success.

Here’s an overview of what to consider:

Startup Costs:

Estimating these accurately is vital. Underestimating can lead to a shortage of funds, while overestimating may deter potential investors.

Costs depend on size, location, equipment choices, and staffing. Create a comprehensive list and research prices, including any unexpected expenses that may arise.

For more detailed information, refer to my article on Estimating Startup Costs.

Sales and Profit: Your sales are influenced by customer service, product popularity, demand, and effective marketing to your target audience.

Profitability simplifies to profit per sale, the number of sales, and monthly expenses.

For instance, if you make $300 profit per sale but only sell one item a month, it may not cover expenses. Likewise, high-volume sales with minimal profit margins can lead to the same outcome.

Assessing these factors provides a clear understanding of expected profitability.

For More, See Estimating Profitability and Revenue.

A thorough grasp of startup costs, revenue factors, and profit margins is essential for sound financial planning in your miniature golf course business.

Simple Sample: Financial Lists to Consider As a Starting Point

Note: Focus on the list items more than the numbers. The numbers are samples. Your estimates will differ due to how you set up your business, location, expenses, and revenues.

Sample Startup Costs for a Miniature Golf Course Business in the USA:

• Lower Value: $50,000
• Upper Value: $300,000
• Lower Value: $100,000
• Upper Value: $500,000
• Lower Value: $20,000
• Upper Value: $50,000
• Lower Value: $10,000
• Upper Value: $30,000
• Lower Value: $5,000
• Upper Value: $20,000
• Upper Value: $15,000
• Lower Value: $2,000
• Upper Value: $10,000
• Lower Value: $3,000
• Upper Value: $7,000

Total Estimated Startup Costs:

• Lower Value: $202,000
• Upper Value: $952,000

Sample Estimated Monthly Expenses for a Miniature Golf Course Business in the USA:

• Lower Value: $4,000
• Lower Value: $1,000
• Upper Value: $3,000
• Lower Value: $500
• Upper Value: $2,000
• Upper Value: $5,000
• Lower Value: $400
• Upper Value: $1,500

Total Estimated Monthly Expenses (excluding loan payments):

• Lower Value: $16,400
• Upper Value: $47,000

Sample Profit Per Sale Examples:

• Lower Value: $5
• Upper Value: $10
• Lower Value: $3
• Upper Value: $7
• Lower Value: $15
• Upper Value: $30

These sample figures serve as starting points for financial planning and may vary based on location, business scale, and market conditions.

Consider revisiting Step 3. Researching your miniature golf course business , where there is a technique to get inside information, will benefit you in this step.

5. Create Your Mission Statement

A mission statement serves as a guiding beacon for your miniature golf course business.

It not only defines the purpose but also keeps you aligned with your core values and customer-centric goals. It’s a constant reminder of the primary benefit you aim to provide to your customers and community.

Sample Mission Statements for a Miniature Golf Course Business:

“Our mission is to create memorable and family-friendly experiences by offering a meticulously designed miniature golf course that fosters laughter, connection, and joy within our community.”

“At [Your Business Name], our mission is to be the premier destination for entertainment and recreation, where patrons of all ages can enjoy a blend of fun, skill, and relaxation on our exceptional miniature golf courses.”

“We are dedicated to enriching the lives of our guests by providing a safe and enjoyable miniature golfing adventure that promotes bonding, active play, and wholesome entertainment.”

“To be the trusted source of miniature golf excitement, our mission is to offer a top-notch facility where families, friends, and individuals can immerse themselves in an atmosphere of fun, challenge, and togetherness.”

These mission statements reflect a commitment to creating unique and fulfilling experiences for customers, which can guide your business endeavors and decision-making processes.

For more, see How To Create a Mission Statement.

6. Creating A Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

A Unique Selling Proposition (USP) is the distinctive element that sets your miniature golf course business apart from competitors.

It identifies and creates that special something that makes your business unique and appealing to customers.

A well-defined USP not only attracts patrons but also leaves a lasting impression.

Sample USPs for a Miniature Golf Course Business:

Themed Adventure Courses: “Experience a journey through time with our historically themed miniature golf courses, where education meets entertainment.”

Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf: “Immerse yourself in a surreal world of glow-in-the-dark mini golf, offering an otherworldly experience that’s out of this world.”

Eco-Friendly Mini Golf: “Play guilt-free on our eco-friendly mini golf course, where every putt contributes to environmental conservation.”

Interactive Challenges: “Put your skills to the test on our tech-enhanced miniature golf courses, featuring augmented reality challenges and digital scorekeeping.”

Scenic Outdoor Courses: “Enjoy the serenity of nature on our picturesque outdoor miniature golf courses, where lush landscapes and water features make every round a scenic adventure.”

Family-Focused Fun: “Create lasting memories with family-friendly fun on our courses, where everyone, from kids to grandparents, can enjoy a day of bonding and laughter.”

Each of these USPs adds a unique dimension to a miniature golf course business, appealing to different customer segments and creating a distinct identity in the market.

7. Choose a Business Name

Selecting the right name for your miniature golf course business is crucial. It should be catchy, memorable, and reflective of your industry.

Take your time to choose a name that resonates with your brand, as changing it later can be challenging.

Ensure the domain name for your online presence matches as well, and check for any existing registrations to avoid conflicts.

30 Miniature Golf Course Business Name Ideas:

• Putt Paradise
• MiniGolf Magic
• Tee Time Trails
• Putter’s Playground
• Ace Adventure Golf
• Fairway Follies
• Hole-in-Fun Mini Golf
• SwingCity Greens
• Par-tee Links
• Birdie’s Backyard
• GreenGolf Getaways
• Family Fairway Fun
• MiniMaster Putt
• GlowGolf Galaxy
• Wild West Mini Golf
• Treasure Cove Greens
• Adventure Greenscape
• Pirate’s Putt-land
• Jurassic MiniGolf
• Fantasy Fairway World
• Alpine Adventure Greens
• Safari Swing Mini Golf
• Enchanted Golf Gardens
• Lighthouse Lanes Mini Golf
• Zen Zone Putting
• Space Odyssey Greens
• Aqua Adventure Putters
• Castle Greens & Gates
• Polar Putt Paradise
• Urban Miniature Greens

These name ideas can serve as inspiration, helping you craft a unique and memorable name that encapsulates the essence of your miniature golf course business.

For more, see the following articles:

• How To Register a Business Name
• Registering a Domain Name For Your Business

8. Register Your Company

Ensuring the legal compliance of your miniature golf course business is paramount to avoid potential legal issues down the road.

Seeking professional advice to structure your business for tax benefits and liability protection is wise.

Common Registrations for a Miniature Golf Course Business:

• Business Structure Registration: Depending on your chosen business structure (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation), you need to register your business with the appropriate state authorities.
• Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN): If you have employees or operate as a corporation or partnership, you’ll need an EIN for tax purposes.
• State Business Licenses: Check with your state and local government for specific licensing requirements for operating a miniature golf course business.

Permits and Licenses:

• Building Permit:  Typically required for any construction or renovation work on your golf course.
• Environmental Permits:  Ensure compliance with environmental regulations, especially if your course includes water features.
• Zoning Permits:  Verify that your location complies with zoning regulations.
• Alcohol License:  If you plan to serve alcohol, you’ll need a license.
• Health Department Permits:  Necessary if you offer food or beverage services.
• Music License:  If you play music on your premises, ensure you have the appropriate licenses.
• Signage Permits:  Some jurisdictions require permits for business signs.
• Amusement License:  Some areas may require an amusement license for your golf course.
• Insurance:  Obtain liability insurance to protect against accidents on your premises.
• Entertainment License:  Required if you host events or live entertainment.

Consult with legal and business professionals to navigate the specific requirements and regulations in your area, ensuring your miniature golf course business operates legally and avoids potential issues.

Registration:

• How to Register Your Business
• How To Register a DBA
• How to Register a Trademark
• How to Get a Business License

Business Structures:

• How to Choose a Business Structure
• Pros & Cons of a Sole Proprietorship
• How To Form an LLC
• How To Register a Business Partnership
• How To Form a Corporation
• How To Choose a Business Registration Service

9. Create Your Corporate Identity

A Corporate ID, or Corporate Identity, encompasses the visual representation of your business.

It includes key components like your logo, business cards, website, signage, stationery, and promotional materials.

Maintaining a consistent and professional design across these elements is crucial for leaving a lasting and impressive impression on both new and existing customers.

You can see our page for an overview of your logo , business cards , website , and business sign , or see A Complete Introduction to Corporate Identity Packages.

10. Writing a Business Plan

A well-crafted business plan is an indispensable tool for any miniature golf course business. It serves multiple critical purposes:

• Guiding Your Business: A business plan acts as a roadmap, outlining your business’s goals, strategies, and operational details. It keeps you on track, helping you navigate the startup phase and beyond.
• Attracting Financing: When seeking financing or investors, a comprehensive business plan provides a clear and compelling overview of your venture. It instills confidence in potential lenders and investors by demonstrating that you’ve thoroughly thought out your business.
• Decision-Making: A business plan aids in informed decision-making. It helps you anticipate challenges, assess opportunities, and develop strategies to overcome obstacles.
• Setting Goals: Your plan sets measurable objectives and benchmarks for your miniature golf course business. It serves as a benchmark to evaluate your progress and make necessary adjustments.
• Communication Tool: It’s a valuable tool for communicating your business vision and strategy to stakeholders, partners, and employees.

Creating a well-structured business plan is not just a formality but an essential step in ensuring the success and sustainability of your miniature golf course business.

Business Plan Template for a Miniature Golf Course Business

Your Name Your Business Name Date

Executive Summary:

• Brief overview of your miniature golf course business.
• Mission statement.
• Business goals and objectives.
• A snapshot of your business plan.

Business Description:

• Detailed description of your miniature golf course business.
• Business history and origin.
• Vision statement.
• Unique Selling Proposition (USP).

Market Analysis:

• Market research findings.
• Target market demographics.
• Competitor analysis.
• SWOT analysis.
• Market trends and forecasts.

Products and Services:

• Detailed description of miniature golf course offerings.
• Pricing strategy.
• Add-ons and special features.
• Differentiation from competitors.

Marketing and Sales Strategy:

• Marketing plan .
• Sales tactics.
• Advertising and promotional strategies.
• Customer acquisition and retention plan.

Management and Organization:

• Management team profiles.
• Organizational structure.
• Roles and responsibilities.
• Advisory board, if applicable.

Operational Plan:

• Location details.
• Facility layout and design.
• Equipment and technology.
• Suppliers and vendors.
• Operational processes.

Financial Plan:

• Start-up costs and funding requirements.
• Sales projections.
• Expense estimates.
• Income statements and cash flow projections.
• Break-even analysis.

Funding Request:

• Funding needs.
• Loan or investment request.
• Use of funds.
• Supporting documents (licenses, permits, contracts).
• Resumes of key team members.
• Market research data.
• Additional financial projections.

This business plan template serves as a comprehensive guide to structure your miniature golf course business plan.

Customize each section with detailed information to present a professional and well-organized plan for your venture.

See How to Write a Business Plan for information on creating your business plan.

11. Banking Considerations

Selecting a local bank with a small business focus is wise. A business account aids in expense tracking and tax preparation.

Cultivating a relationship with your banker can provide valuable financial guidance.

Additionally, having a merchant account or online payment service enhances sales and customer convenience by accepting credit and debit cards.

For more, see How to Open a Business Bank Account. You may also want to look at What Is a Merchant Account and How to Get One.

12. Getting the Funds for Your Operation

When seeking a loan to start your miniature golf course business, consider various funding options like traditional lenders, private loans, investors, or selling assets.

Additionally, explore government grants that might aid your venture.

Considerations when Meeting with a Loan Officer:

• Business Plan: Have a comprehensive business plan outlining your miniature golf course concept, market research, financial projections, and repayment strategy.
• Credit History: Be prepared to discuss your personal and business credit history, including any outstanding debts.
• Collateral: Identify assets you can use as collateral, such as property or equipment.
• Repayment Plan: Clearly articulate how you intend to repay the loan, including a repayment schedule.
• Legal Structure: Specify your business’s legal structure, such as sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation.

Sample List of Documents for a NEW Business Loan Application:

• Business Plan with Financial Projections
• Personal and Business Tax Returns
• Personal Financial Statements
• Credit Report
• Proof of Collateral
• Legal Business Structure Documents
• Loan Application Form
• Business License and Permits
• Resumes of Key Team Members
• Bank Statements

Having these documents ready demonstrates your preparedness and commitment to your miniature golf course business, increasing your chances of securing the necessary financing.

For more, see the following:

• Getting a Small Business Loan
• SBA Small Business Grants
• Search: Miniature Golf Course Business Start-up Loans
• Search: Grants For a Miniature Golf Course Business

13. Software Setup

When selecting accounting software for your miniature golf course business, thorough research is essential.

It’s easier to implement a program from scratch than to switch systems after your data is already in another.

Opt for a reputable company with a history, ensuring future support and updates.

Take advantage of software demos to try before you buy, gauging usability and features. Software reviews and forums provide insights into user experiences, helping you make an informed decision.

Additionally, research accounting software for tracking expenses and tax preparation.

Consulting with your bookkeeper or accountant is invaluable for choosing the right software that aligns with your business’s financial needs and streamlines accounting processes.

Making the right software choice ensures efficient financial management and reporting for your miniature golf course business.

Check out Google’s latest search results for software packages for a miniature golf course business.

14. Get The Right Business Insurance

Insurance is a crucial safeguard for your miniature golf course business. It’s vital to have the right coverage in place before any activity commences.

Consider policies that protect customers, employees, property, and yourself from unforeseen incidents.

Professional liability insurance can be invaluable, guarding you against potential lawsuits or claims.

Additionally, Interruption Insurance can be a lifeline in case an incident forces your business to shut down involuntarily, helping you recover lost income and expenses.

To navigate the complexities of insurance, it’s wise to engage a competent insurance broker.

They can guide you in selecting the appropriate coverage, ensuring that your miniature golf course business is well-protected and can continue operating smoothly even in the face of unexpected events.

For more, see What to Know About Business Insurance . You can also browse the latest Google search results for miniature golf course business insurance .

15. Suppliers and Service Providers

Selecting Suppliers and Service Providers for a miniature golf course business is vital.

Here are items and services you might need:

• Obstacles and Equipment Suppliers: To source miniature golf course obstacles and maintenance equipment.
• Lawn Care Services: For regular maintenance of the course grounds.
• Merchandise Suppliers: If you sell branded merchandise.
• Marketing and Advertising Agencies: To promote your business effectively.
• Financial Services: Accounting, bookkeeping, and tax services.
• Legal Services: For contracts, permits, and legal matters.
• IT Services: To maintain your website and online presence.
• Event Planning Services: For organizing parties and corporate events.
• Cleaning Services: For facilities and restroom maintenance.
• Online Payment Processing: To handle online bookings and payments.

Cultivating strong relationships with these suppliers and service providers ensures the smooth operation of your business.

A reliable supplier can offer competitive prices, ultimately benefiting your customers and profit margins.

Treating them with respect and ensuring mutual financial benefits fosters a positive and productive working relationship.

For More, See How To Choose a Supplier.

16. Setting Prices

Researching pricing when launching a miniature golf course business is imperative for several reasons.

Firstly, it ensures that your pricing strategy aligns with market norms and customer expectations.

This research helps in finding the balance where you neither overprice nor underprice your services.

Setting prices too high can deter potential customers and lead to missed sales opportunities.

On the other hand, pricing too low might attract more customers initially, but it can result in inadequate profits to cover expenses and sustain the business in the long run.

To succeed, it’s crucial to strike a balance that reflects the market while emphasizing the unique value your miniature golf course offers.

Emphasizing this value allows you to justify your pricing to customers, making them more likely to choose your business over competitors.

Regularly reviewing and adjusting your pricing strategy based on market changes and customer feedback is essential to maintain this equilibrium and ensure the financial sustainability of your business.

See the following for more:

• Setting the Price of Your Products and Services
• Search Results for Pricing Strategies for a Miniature Golf Course Business.

17. Physical Setup

Layout and Setup of a Miniature Golf Course Business:

In the context of an online miniature golf course business, the physical layout primarily pertains to your workspace, rather than the course itself.

Here’s an overview:

• Workspace: Designate a dedicated area for your online business activities. It should be quiet, well-lit, and comfortable. Consider ergonomics for your desk and chair to promote productivity during long hours.
• Equipment: Set up your computer, monitor, keyboard, and mouse in an ergonomic arrangement. Ensure a reliable internet connection, and consider backup solutions in case of technical issues.
• Storage: Organize shelves or filing cabinets for storing important documents, office supplies, and merchandise inventory (if applicable).
• Lighting: Adequate lighting is crucial. Natural light is ideal, supplemented by task lighting for your workspace.
• Decor: Personalize your workspace with decor that inspires and motivates you. This could include motivational quotes, artwork, or plants.

Since this is an online business, the signage is primarily digital. Here’s how to set it up effectively:

• Main Business Sign: Create a professional logo and branding elements that represent your miniature golf course business. These should be prominently displayed on your website, social media profiles, and marketing materials.
• Digital Signage: Utilize visually appealing graphics and banners on your website to guide visitors. Clearly label navigation menus and buttons for easy user experience.
• Directional Signage: If you offer physical products or have a physical location for administrative purposes, use online maps and directions on your website to guide customers. Ensure that the contact details are readily available.

Office Setup:

Managing an online miniature golf course business can indeed be time-consuming, emphasizing the need for an organized office setup:

• Workspace Organization: Keep your workspace clutter-free and organized. Use shelves, drawers, and organizers to store paperwork, supplies, and equipment efficiently.
• Productivity Tools: Equip your office with essential tools such as a computer, phone, printer, and scanner. Consider project management software to streamline tasks.
• Time Management: Implement effective time management techniques to maximize productivity. Set clear work hours and boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Communication: Set up a professional email system and ensure you have a dedicated space for virtual meetings or customer interactions.
• Backup and Security: Regularly back up your data and invest in cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive information.

A well-organized and equipped office is crucial for the efficient operation of your online miniature golf course business, helping you stay focused, productive, and responsive to customers’ needs.

See Here are Considerations for The Setup of Your Office for tips and ideas to make your office work for you. Also, have a look at our article About Company Signs.

18. Creating a Website

A website is essential for your miniature golf course business. It serves as your primary online presence, offering crucial information about your offerings.

Unlike social media accounts, a website gives you control and ownership when you host and register your domain.

Moreover, your website is a powerful marketing tool.

By creating industry-specific blogs and sharing valuable tips tailored to your customers, you can build trust and establish yourself as an expert.

The content you create not only engages visitors but also enhances your visibility and credibility in their eyes.

A well-maintained website is an indispensable asset, connecting you with potential customers, providing information, and enabling you to showcase your expertise.

For more, see How to Build a Website for Your Business .

19. Create an External Support Team

An external support team of professionals for your miniature golf course business is a reliable group of individuals who provide valuable advice and services without being on your payroll.

You can engage them for specific projects, tasks, or on a contractual, hourly, or retainer basis.

While you may already work with some professionals, recognizing them as part of your team underscores their importance and encourages you to expand your network.

Building such a team doesn’t require immediate action but is an ongoing process to cultivate strong professional relationships.

Members may include an accountant, lawyer, financial advisor, marketing specialist, technical experts, and consultants.

A robust support team ensures you have access to expertise when needed, enhancing the overall success and sustainability of your business.

For more, see Building a Team of Professional Advisors for Your Business.

20. Hiring Employees

The following are job positions or outsourced services you may want to consider as your miniature golf course business grows:

• Course Manager:  Oversees day-to-day operations, maintenance, and staff management.
• Marketing Coordinator:  Manages advertising, promotions, and social media presence.
• Customer Service Representatives:  Interact with visitors, provide assistance, and manage reservations.
• Groundskeepers:  Maintain the course, landscaping, and cleanliness.
• Maintenance Technicians:  Repair and upkeep of obstacles and equipment.
• Event Coordinator:  Organizes parties, corporate events, and tournaments.
• Accountant/Bookkeeper:  Handles financial records, budgeting, and tax preparation.
• Security Personnel:  Ensures safety and security during business hours.
• Retail/Concession Staff:  Manages sales, concessions, and merchandise.
• Online Presence Manager:  Maintains the website, online booking, and online reviews.
• Event Host/Entertainer:  Engages with customers during special events or themed nights.
• Cleaners:  Maintain cleanliness of restrooms and facilities.
• Landscaping Services:  Outsourced for specialized maintenance.
• Accounting Services:  Professional assistance for financial management and audits.
• Legal Services:  For contracts, permits, and legal matters.

When expanding your miniature golf course business, hiring qualified personnel and considering outsourcing can help manage the growing demands and ensure smooth operations.

For more, see How and When to Hire a New Employee.

21. Getting Customers Through the Door

When you have reached this step, your business is set up and ready to go, with one more final step, which is important: getting customers through the door.

There are numerous ways to do this, like advertising, having a grand opening , word of mouth, etc.

Let’s dig a little deeper into the following sections.

Marketing Considerations

A successful miniature golf course business hinges on attracting the right customers.

Initially, this can be challenging as your operation is new and unfamiliar to people.

However, building a strong reputation over time and gaining marketing experience will ease this process.

Marketing is an ongoing effort, and the more you invest in effective techniques, the more revenue you generate.

While you don’t always need a marketing agency, there are simple methods to get the word out:

• Social Media: Create engaging profiles on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X. Share photos, videos, and promotions regularly to connect with potential customers.
• Local SEO: Optimize your website for local search terms to appear prominently in online searches. Encourage customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google My Business.
• Community Events: Participate in local fairs, festivals, or charity events. Host miniature golf tournaments or offer discounts for attendees.
• Email Marketing: Collect customer emails and send regular newsletters with updates, promotions, and event announcements.
• Referral Programs: Encourage existing customers to refer friends and family by offering discounts or free rounds for successful referrals.
• Partnerships: Collaborate with nearby businesses to cross-promote each other. Share brochures and posters in complementary establishments.
• Online Ads: Run targeted online ads on platforms like Facebook Ads or Google Ads to reach potential customers in your area.
• Discounts and Special Offers: Attract new customers with limited-time discounts, package deals, or special events.

Remember that consistent and creative marketing efforts will help your miniature golf course business thrive and attract a loyal customer base.

See How To Get Customers Through the Door and our marketing section to provide ideas to help you bring awareness to your business.

Sample Ad Ideas:

• Tee off on our exciting miniature golf course. Perfect for family outings and special events. Book your tee time today!
• Experience the thrill of a hole-in-one on our challenging course. Fun for all ages. Plan your visit now!
• Putt your way through an adventurous journey. Bring friends, create memories. Swing by today for a hole lot of fun!
• Family fun, laughter, and friendly competition await. Join us for a memorable weekend round. Reserve your spot!
• Celebrate your special day with a hole-in-one party! Packages for all ages. Book now and make it a swingin’ success!

Collaborative partnerships can be mutually beneficial for your miniature golf course business and others.

Here are businesses to consider approaching for referrals and potential partnership arrangements:

• Local Hotels and Resorts: Partner with nearby accommodations to offer package deals to tourists, combining a stay with a visit to your miniature golf course. In return, they can refer guests to your attraction.
• Family-Friendly Restaurants: Establish connections with family-oriented eateries. They can promote your miniature golf course as an after-dinner activity, and you can recommend their restaurant to your customers.
• Event Planners: Collaborate with event planning companies to host birthday parties, corporate events, or team-building activities at your facility. They can refer clients seeking unique venues, while you can recommend their services for event coordination.
• Schools and Youth Groups: Partner with schools and youth organizations for field trips and group outings. Offer special rates or educational programs, and they can refer students and families to your course.
• Local Sports Clubs: Work with sports clubs or leagues in your area. They can refer teams and families looking for recreational activities, and you can promote their sports programs to your customers.
• Tourist Information Centers: Establish connections with local visitor centers and travel agencies. They can provide brochures and information about your miniature golf course to tourists, and you can recommend their services for sightseeing.
• Party Supply Stores: Collaborate with party supply shops to offer joint promotions for birthdays and special occasions. They can refer customers, and you can suggest their supplies for themed parties.
• Online Influencers and Bloggers: Partner with local bloggers or social media influencers who can review and promote your miniature golf course to their followers in exchange for unique experiences or affiliate commissions.

Creating win-win partnerships with these businesses can expand your customer base and enhance the overall experience for your patrons while providing referrals or benefits to your partners.

Points To Consider

Next, let’s review essential points for more tips, insights, and considerations before starting your miniature golf course business.

We will cover sections, including skills to consider, points to focus on, and equipment. Then you’ll reach the “Knowledge Is Power,” section, where you will want to use the resources for valuable information.

Hours of Operation:

Hours of operation for a miniature golf course typically range from late morning to early evening, accommodating families and individuals.

However, maintenance tasks like mowing, obstacle repairs, and cleaning often require additional hours before opening and after closing, estimated at 2-3 hours daily.

These extra hours ensure the course remains pristine and safe for patrons during regular business hours.

A List of Equipment and Supplies to Consider for a Miniature Golf Course Business:

Running a miniature golf course business requires a variety of equipment to ensure smooth operations and provide an enjoyable experience for customers.

Here’s a detailed list of equipment you may need:

1. Miniature Golf Obstacles:

• Various themed obstacles like windmills, tunnels, bridges, and ramps.
• Putters in different sizes for adults and children.
• Golf balls, including glow-in-the-dark options for nighttime play.

2. Scorecards and Pencils:

• Provide scorecards for players to keep track of their scores.
• Offer pencils or mini golf-themed score-keeping tools.

3. Flags and Flagsticks:

• Colorful flags to mark the holes.
• Flagsticks to insert into the holes for easy identification.

4. Golf Ball Dispensers:

• Automated or manual dispensers for distributing golf balls to players.

5. Lighting Equipment:

• If operating at night, you’ll need adequate lighting for the course.

6. Maintenance Tools:

• Lawnmowers, trimmers, and landscaping tools for course upkeep.
• Tools for repairing obstacles, such as screws and adhesive.

7. Benches and Seating:

• Provide benches and seating areas for players to rest between rounds.

8. Trash Receptacles:

• Place trash bins throughout the course for garbage disposal.

9. Signage:

• Directional signs to guide players through the course.
• Safety and rules signage.

10. PA System: – A public address system for announcements and event hosting.

11. Ticket Booth or Point-of-Sale System: – To handle admissions, ticket sales, and concessions.

12. Security Equipment: – Surveillance cameras and security systems to protect the facility.

13. Snack Bar and Concession Equipment: – If offering food and beverages, you’ll need kitchen equipment, refrigerators, and serving counters.

14. Party and Event Supplies: – Tables, chairs, and decorations for hosting parties and events.

15. First Aid Kits: – Stock first aid kits for minor injuries or emergencies.

16. Office Equipment: – Computers, printers, and office supplies for administrative tasks.

17. Cleaning Supplies: – Cleaning materials for maintaining cleanliness on the course and in facilities.

18. Customer Amenities: – Restrooms and handwashing facilities. – Shade structures or umbrellas for hot days.

19. Decor and Theming: – Themed decorations and landscaping elements to enhance the overall ambiance.

20. Event and Marketing Materials: – Banners, brochures, and promotional materials to advertise special events and promotions.

Remember that the specific equipment needs may vary depending on the size and theme of your miniature golf course business.

Conduct a thorough inventory and consider your target audience and business goals when acquiring equipment.

Key Points To Succeeding in a Miniature Golf Course Business

Operating a successful miniature golf course business involves several key points:

1. Focusing on a Niche: Identifying a niche within the miniature golf industry can set you apart from competitors and cater to specific customer interests.

2. Building a Customer Base: Establishing a loyal customer base can be challenging at the outset. Effective marketing and promotions can help draw initial visitors.

3. Building Relationships: Cultivate strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and employees to foster loyalty and trust within your business ecosystem.

4. Meeting Customer Needs: Offer products and services that align with your customers’ preferences and demands. Act on valuable customer feedback to enhance your offerings.

5. High-Level Customer Service: Exceptional customer service is paramount. Your customers are the lifeblood of your business, and their satisfaction should always be a top priority.

6. Providing Value: Continuously strive to provide value to your customers through unique experiences, special offers, and excellent service.

7. Hiring the Right Team: Assemble a skilled and dedicated team to support your operations. The right people in the right positions are crucial.

8. Effective Staff Management: Treat your staff with respect, create a positive work environment, and manage them effectively to improve retention and productivity.

9. Cash Flow Management: Maintain a healthy cash flow by monitoring expenses, income, and financial planning.

10. Cost Control: Keep costs manageable without compromising quality or service standards.

11. Adaptation: Embrace change and stay updated with industry developments, technology, and evolving customer preferences.

12. Revenue Fluctuations: Be prepared to manage revenue fluctuations that may occur seasonally or due to unforeseen circumstances.

13. Competition: Understand and respond to both new and existing competition effectively.

14. Effective Marketing: Develop a robust marketing strategy to increase awareness and attract customers. Consider professional assistance if necessary.

By focusing on these key points, you can enhance your chances of success in the miniature golf course business.

Focusing on your skill set is crucial when considering a miniature golf course business.

Successful operation demands a diverse skill set encompassing management, customer service, marketing, and maintenance.

Evaluating your skills ensures you’re equipped for this multifaceted role.

If a crucial skill is lacking, you have two options: acquire it through learning or delegate by hiring someone with expertise.

For instance, if you lack marketing knowledge, hiring a marketer can bridge the gap.

Essential skills for a miniature golf course business owner:

• Management:  Efficiently oversee daily operations and staff.
• Customer Service:  Provide exceptional experiences for visitors.
• Marketing:  Promote the business effectively to attract customers.
• Maintenance:  Ensure the course remains in excellent condition.
• Financial Management:  Handle budgets, expenses, and financial planning.
• Problem Solving:  Quickly address issues and adapt to challenges.
• Creativity:  Develop new attractions and promotions.
• Networking:  Build relationships within the industry and community.
• Adaptability:  Stay updated with industry trends and adjust strategies accordingly.
• Communication:  Effectively convey ideas to staff and customers.

Assessing and enhancing these skills is vital for success in the miniature golf course business.

Knowledge Is Power if You Use It!

Leverage knowledge for success. Explore abundant industry information in the following links, beneficial for startup and ongoing operations.

Trends and Statistics

Analyzing industry trends and statistics for a miniature golf course business aids informed decision-making, staying competitive, and adapting to evolving market demands.

See the latest search results for trends and statistics related to the miniature golf industry.

Miniature Golf Course Associations

Trade associations provide benefits such as industry news updates and valuable networking opportunities.

See the search results related to miniature golf course associations and the benefits of Joining the Chamber of Commerce.

The Top Miniature Golf Courses

Analyzing established miniature golf businesses can spark innovative ideas, reveal industry gaps for a competitive edge, and highlight overlooked offerings provided by competitors.

See the latest search results for the top miniature golf courses.

The Future of the Miniature Golf

Researching the miniature golf industry’s future is crucial for potential business owners.

It provides insights into emerging trends, market potential, and informed decision-making for a successful venture.

See the search results for the future of the miniature golf course industry.

Find a Miniature Golf Course Business For Sale

Acquiring an existing miniature golf course business has distinct advantages and drawbacks:

• Immediate Revenue:  You start earning from day one, avoiding the challenges of a startup.
• Skip Startup Phase:  Bypass the often turbulent initial stages of a new venture.
• Proven Success:  The business’s track record assures you it’s viable.
• Financial Clarity:  You have access to existing financial records, knowing revenue, profit, and expenses.
• Established Customer Base:  A ready-made clientele simplifies maintaining cash flow.
• Reputation:  The business already enjoys a standing within the community.
• Higher Initial Cost:  Acquiring goodwill and an established customer base typically comes at a premium.
• Risk of Change:  Altering established operations may lead to customer attrition, posing challenges.
• Inherited Reputation:  The business’s reputation, good and bad, becomes part of your ownership.

Exploring available businesses in the miniature golf industry, even if not an exact match, can reveal valuable investment opportunities.

The latest search results for a miniature golf course business for sale and others in the same category.

Franchise Opportunities Related to a Miniature Golf Course Business

Owning a miniature golf course franchise presents both advantages and drawbacks, making it a decision worth thorough consideration before venturing into the business.

• Proven Business Model:  Franchises provide a structured plan established by the corporate office, simplifying the startup process.
• Reputation and Marketing:  Benefit from an existing brand reputation and corporate marketing efforts.
• In-Depth Knowledge:  Access comprehensive insights about the business from the franchise.
• Corporate Support:  Receive ongoing support and guidance from the corporate office.
• High Costs:  Franchise ownership often entails significant upfront expenses.
• Limited Autonomy:  Major changes or decisions may require approval from the corporate entity.
• Restrictions:  Operate within strict guidelines and use only approved products and services.
• Contractual Limitations:  Abide by the terms and conditions set in the franchise agreement, limiting flexibility.
• Ongoing Fees:  Pay regular franchise fees to the corporate entity.

While there may not be an exact miniature golf franchise match, exploring related franchises within the same industry could reveal unexpected opportunities. Research diligently to make an informed decision about franchise ownership.

See the latest search results for franchise opportunities related to this industry.

Customer Expectations

Examining search results on customer expectations in miniature golf provides insights into meeting and surpassing customer desires. Uncover potential overlooked issues and enhance your offerings.

See the search results related to customer expectations for miniature golf.

Exploring expert tips benefits both novices and experts in miniature golf. Experts can refine their techniques, while novices gain valuable knowledge to enhance their skills.

See the latest search results for miniature golf to gain tips and insights.

Miniature Golf Course Business Insights

Examining tips and insights is key to generating innovative ideas, steering clear of pitfalls in your miniature golf business, and expanding your industry knowledge.

See the latest search results about insights into running a miniature golf course business.

Miniature Golf Publications

Publications are a vital source for staying current with the latest miniature golf information and ideas.

See the search results for miniature golf publications.

Miniature Golf Forums

Exploring miniature golf forums fosters industry connections and insights into customer perspectives, aiding in better understanding your audience.

See the latest search results related to miniature golf forums.

Miniature Golf Course Blogs

Subscribing to reputable miniature golf blogs ensures a steady stream of valuable ideas and industry updates. Curate your collection for the most informative sources.

Look at the latest search results for top miniature golf blogs to follow.

Miniature Golf News

Staying informed about miniature golf events and news is easy through mainstream media outlets, providing a valuable source for updates and coverage.

See the latest results for miniature golf news.

Watching YouTube videos about miniature golf can enhance your skills and knowledge, offering valuable insights and tips.

YouTube videos related to miniature golf.

Privacy Overview

We earn commissions if you shop through the links below.  Read more

Mini Golf Course

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Mini Golf Course

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on June 23, 2023 Updated on May 6, 2024

Investment range

$275,800 - $422,300

Revenue potential

$312,000 - $624,000 p.a.

Time to build

6 – 12 months

Profit potential

$93,000 - $186,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Mini golf is a great activity for families or even for a date night. Many mini golf courses also have other activities available, such as driving ranges, batting cages, or an arcade. If you are a mini golf lover, you could start your own mini golf course and get in on a $360 million industry in the U.S. 

But first, you’ll need to understand the business of mini golf. Luckily, this step-by-step guide is teed up with all the business insights you need to start a successful mini golf course. 

Looking to register your business? A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple.

Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the Best LLC Services .

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

• Help people have a fun time
• Market is making a big comeback from the pandemic
• Good profit potential
• High startup costs
• Need to find available land in a convenient location

Mini golf course industry trends

Industry size and growth.

• Industry size and past growth – The U.S. mini golf course industry is worth $361.7 million in 2023 after declining an average of 2.6% annually for the last five years due to the pandemic.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/miniature-golf-courses-united-states/#:~:text=The%20market%20size%2C%20measured%20by,was%20%24350.2m%20in%202022. ))
• Growth forecast – The U.S. mini golf course industry is projected to grow 3.3% in 2023.
• Number of businesses – In 2022, 1,006 mini golf course businesses were operating in the U.S.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/market-research-reports/miniature-golf-courses-industry/ ))
• Number of people employed – In 2022, the U.S. mini golf course industry employed 8,775 people. 

Trends and challenges

• Many mini golf courses today are themed, creating more immersive experiences.
• Newly designed mini golf courses are attracting people of all ages.
• The increased popularity of online gaming is keeping teenagers away from mini golf courses.
• Creating unique mini golf courses that attract people of all ages is getting more expensive.

How much does it cost to start a mini golf course business?

Startup costs for a mini golf course range from $275,000 to $420,000 or more depending on the extent of the facilities. The largest cost is of course the construction of the course and facilities.

You’ll need a handful of items to successfully launch your mini golf course business, including: 

• Facilities to make and serve food and beverages
• Golf bag , putters and balls
• Equipment to care for the greens

How much can you earn from a mini golf course business?

You can likely charge $7 to $10 for a round of mini golf. You can also earn revenue from other activities plus food and beverage sales. These calculations will assume that the average person will spend $12 at your course. Your profit margin should be about 30%. 

In your first year or two, you might have 500 customers a week, bringing in $312,000 in revenue. This would mean $93,000 in profit, assuming that 30% margin. 

As you gain traction, sales could climb to 1,000 customers a week.  With annual revenue of $624,000, you’d make a tidy profit of $186,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

The only real barrier to entry for a mini golf course is funding the startup costs.

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a mini golf course, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market. 

Market research could give you the upper hand even if you’ve got the perfect product. Conducting robust market research is crucial, as it will help you better understand your customers, your competitors, and the broader business landscape.

Analyze your competitors 

Research mini golf courses in your area to examine their services, price points, and customer reviews.

• Make a list of mini golf courses that offer similar services. 
• Review your competitors’ services – their features, pricing, and quality – and marketing strategies
• Check out their online reviews and ratings on Google, Yelp, and Facebook to get an idea of what their customers like and dislike.
• Identify your competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. 

This should identify areas where you can strengthen your business and gain a competitive edge to make better business decisions.

Why? Identify an opportunity

You’re looking for a market gap to fill. For instance, maybe the local market is missing a jungle themed mini golf course or a mini golf course that sells beer.

You might consider targeting a niche, such as mini golf for families by offering other kid attractions.

This could jumpstart your word-of-mouth marketing and attract clients right away. 

What? Determine your services

In addition to mini golf rounds, many mini golf courses also have arcades, driving ranges, or batting cages to bring in additional revenue. Of course, building those facilities would add to your startup costs, but it would bring a higher profit over time. You should also consider having a snack stand to offer beverages and snacks like hot dogs and soft pretzels. 

How much should you charge for mini golf?

Your prices should be based on market prices in your area, but also on your operating costs. 

Once you know your costs, use our profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will likely be mainly families, but it could be people of all ages, so you should market on both Instagram and Facebook.

Where? Choosing the best mini golf course location

You’ll need to find land to lease or buy, so you should engage with a commercial real estate agent to help you. You’ll want a location that’s convenient and near family neighborhoods. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the perfect location for your mini golf course business:

• Target Audience: Near families, tourists, or specific age groups.
• Visibility: Roadside spots with good signage opportunities.
• Accessibility: Easy transport access and ample parking.
• Size & Terrain: Enough space for course & amenities; use natural landscapes.
• Competition: Avoid locations with many similar businesses.
• Regulations: Check zoning and permits.
• Climate: Favorable weather or consider shelter provisions.
• Nearby Amenities: Close to restaurants, shops, or attractions.
• Safety: Good area safety and lighting for evenings.
• Costs: Ensure lease or purchase fits your budget.
• Growth Potential: Space for expansion; growing neighborhood.
• Feedback: Test interest with temporary setups.
• Environmental Impact: Ensure no harm to local ecosystems.
• Expert Advice: Consult local real estate and business experts.

Step 3: Brainstorm a Miniature Golf Course Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better 
• Name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “mini golf” or “mini golf course”, boosts SEO
• Name should allow for expansion, for ex: “PlayExpand Greens” and “OmniPutt Ventures” over “PuttParadise Lanes” and “TwilightTurf Mini Golf”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

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Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead and reserve your business name with your state, start the trademark registration process, and complete your domain registration and social media account creation. 

Your business name is one of the key differentiators that sets your business apart. Once you pick a name, reserve it and start with the branding, it’s hard to switch to a new name. So be sure to carefully consider your choice before moving forward. 

Step 4: Create a Miniature Golf Course Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Summarize the key highlights and objectives of your mini golf course business, including its location, target audience, and unique features.
• Business Overview: Provide an overview of your mini golf course, including its theme, size, and the types of mini golf experiences it offers, such as themed courses or special events.
• Product and Services: Describe the various mini golf services you provide, such as regular rounds of golf, special packages for events or parties, and any additional amenities like a snack bar or arcade.
• Market Analysis: Analyze the local and regional market for mini golf entertainment, considering factors like population demographics, tourism potential, and the demand for family-friendly activities.
• Competitive Analysis: Identify and evaluate other mini golf courses in the area, highlighting what makes your course unique, such as innovative course designs or pricing strategies.
• Sales and Marketing: Outline your marketing strategies for attracting customers, including social media campaigns, partnerships with local businesses, and promotions for special events.
• Management Team: Introduce the team responsible for managing and operating the mini golf course, emphasizing their expertise in hospitality and entertainment.
• Operations Plan: Detail the day-to-day operations of the mini golf course, covering aspects like hours of operation, staff roles, maintenance schedules, and customer service protocols.
• Financial Plan: Present financial projections, including startup costs, revenue forecasts, operating expenses, and expected profitability for your mini golf course business.
• Appendix: Include any additional materials that support your business plan, such as photos of the mini golf course layout, marketing materials, and financial statements.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business! 

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to mini golf courses. 

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state. 

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your mini golf course will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely. 

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company ( LLC ) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.  Here’s how to form an LLC .
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation. Read how to start a corporation here .
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just need to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have. 

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN. 

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans: This is the most common method but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans: The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants: A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Friends and Family: Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding: Websites like  Kickstarter  and  Indiegogo  offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like  Fundable  and  WeFunder  enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal: Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best option, other than friends and family, for funding a mini golf course business. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.  

Step 8: Apply for Business Licenses/Permits

Starting a mini golf course business requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money, you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your mini golf course business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account. 

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business. 

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.  

You may want to use industry-specific software, such as  Gatemaster , or BMI Leisure , to manage your bookings, registrations, and payments.

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero . 
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Create a website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism. You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

Your customers are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization (SEO) practices. SEO will help your website appear closer to the top in relevant search results, a crucial element for increasing sales. 

Make sure that you optimize calls to action on your website. Experiment with text, color, size, and position of calls to action such as “Book Course Now”. This can sharply increase purchases.

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Engage the Community: Connect with local schools, community centers, and youth groups to organize mini golf events, fostering a sense of community and bringing in potential customers.
• Themed Nights and Events: Host themed nights, such as glow-in-the-dark mini golf or costume contests, to create memorable experiences that encourage repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth.
• Partnerships with Local Businesses: Collaborate with nearby restaurants or ice cream shops for cross-promotional deals, providing discounts for customers who visit both establishments.
• Social Media Challenges: Launch engaging challenges on social media platforms, encouraging visitors to share their best mini golf moments with specific hashtags for a chance to win free rounds or other incentives.
• Student Discounts and Packages: Offer special discounts for students or create packages for birthdays and special occasions, making your mini golf course an attractive option for diverse customer segments.
• Loyalty Programs: Implement a loyalty program that rewards frequent visitors with discounts, free rounds, or exclusive access to events, encouraging customer retention.
• Local Influencer Collaborations: Partner with local influencers or bloggers to review and promote your mini golf course, leveraging their audience and credibility to increase awareness.
• Corporate Team-Building Packages: Develop team-building packages for local businesses, providing a unique and entertaining venue for corporate events and fostering a positive work environment.
• Referral Discounts: Institute a referral program where current customers receive discounts or bonuses for referring friends and family to experience your mini golf course.
• Seasonal Promotions: Create seasonal promotions, such as holiday-themed mini golf courses or summer family packages, to capitalize on specific times of the year and attract diverse customer groups.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that sets it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your mini golf course meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire. 

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your mini golf course business could be: 

• Putt your way to excitement and adventure on our uniquely designed, one-of-a-kind mini golf course.
• Embark on a mini golf journey like no other, with our interactive and imaginative course that captivates players of all ages.
• Experience the perfect blend of fun and challenge with our meticulously crafted mini golf holes that keep players entertained and engaged.

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a mini golf course business, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in mini golf for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in mini golf courses. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. 

Step 12: Build Your Team

You will need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a mini golf course business include:

• Course attendants – guest registrations, customer service
• Snack bar attendants – sell food and beverages
• Maintenance workers – maintain courses
• General manager – scheduling, accounting

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need. 

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent. 

Step 13: Run a Mini Golf Course Business – Start Making Money!

Mini golf courses are making a big comeback since the pandemic, as people want to get out and enjoy activities. Now could be the perfect time to start your own mini golf course to help your community have fun and to get in on a rebounding industry. 

Now that you understand how the business works, you’re ready to find a property and get your successful mini golf course running!

• Mini Golf Course Business FAQs

A mini golf course can be a profitable business if well-managed and attracts a steady stream of customers. Profitability depends on factors such as location, pricing, marketing efforts, competition, and customer experience. Most see a return on investment in one to three years.

During a typical day at a mini golf course, customers arrive and register at a counter or booth where they pay for their round. They are provided with putters, balls, and scorecards. Customers then play through the course, navigating obstacles and challenges. Staff members are available to assist and ensure smooth operations. Regular maintenance and landscaping are carried out, and some courses offer additional amenities such as concessions, seating areas, or party facilities.

The growth potential of a mini golf course depends on factors like location, local demographics, competition, and demand for recreational activities. Effective marketing, good maintenance, and expanding offerings can contribute to growth.

A mini golf course is a leisure and entertainment business within the recreational industry. It caters to individuals, families, friends, and groups seeking an enjoyable and relaxed activity. Additional services like party hosting, event rentals, concessions, and merchandise sales may also be provided.

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Miniature Golf Course Name
• Create a Miniature Golf Course Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Business Licenses/Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Mini Golf Course Business - Start Making Money!

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Mini Golf Course Business Plan Template & Guidebook

Running a mini golf course business is an exciting and rewarding opportunity for entrepreneurs. However, establishing a successful business requires careful planning and sound financial management. Fortunately, aspiring business owners can find help in the form of the #1 Mini Golf Course Business Plan Template & Guidebook, which provides all the tools needed to create a winning plan from scratch. Get ready to bring your mini golf dreams to life!

Get worry-free services and support to launch your business starting at $0 plus state fees.

• How to Start a Profitable Mini Golf Course Business [11 Steps]

How to Write a Mini Golf Course Business Plan in 7 Steps:

1. describe the purpose of your mini golf course business..

The first step to writing your business plan is to describe the purpose of your mini golf course business. This includes describing why you are starting this type of business, and what problems it will solve for customers. This is a quick way to get your mind thinking about the customers’ problems. It also helps you identify what makes your business different from others in its industry.

It also helps to include a vision statement so that readers can understand what type of company you want to build.

Here is an example of a purpose mission statement for a mini golf course business:

Our mission is to provide a fun, family-friendly mini golf experience by creating and maintaining an inviting, safe environment for our guests to enjoy. We strive to provide a challenging course that appeals to players of all ages and levels of experience. We aim to be the top choice for those seeking an enjoyable outdoor entertainment option within our local community.

2. Products & Services Offered by Your Mini Golf Course Business.

The next step is to outline your products and services for your mini golf course business. 

When you think about the products and services that you offer, it's helpful to ask yourself the following questions:

• What is my business?
• What are the products and/or services that I offer?
• Why am I offering these particular products and/or services?
• How do I differentiate myself from competitors with similar offerings?
• How will I market my products and services?

You may want to do a comparison of your business plan against those of other competitors in the area, or even with online reviews. This way, you can find out what people like about them and what they don’t like, so that you can either improve upon their offerings or avoid doing so altogether.

3. Build a Creative Marketing Stratgey.

If you don't have a marketing plan for your mini golf course business, it's time to write one. Your marketing plan should be part of your business plan and be a roadmap to your goals. 

A good marketing plan for your mini golf course business includes the following elements:

Target market

• Who is your target market?
• What do these customers have in common?
• How many of them are there?
• How can you best reach them with your message or product?

Customer base 

• Who are your current customers? 
• Where did they come from (i.e., referrals)?
• How can their experience with your mini golf course business help make them repeat customers, consumers, visitors, subscribers, or advocates for other people in their network or industry who might also benefit from using this service, product, or brand?

Product or service description

• How does it work, what features does it have, and what are its benefits?
• Can anyone use this product or service regardless of age or gender?
• Can anyone visually see themselves using this product or service?
• How will they feel when they do so? If so, how long will the feeling last after purchasing (or trying) the product/service for the first time?

Competitive analysis

• Which companies are competing with yours today (and why)? 
• Which ones may enter into competition with yours tomorrow if they find out about it now through word-of-mouth advertising; social media networks; friends' recommendations; etc.)
• What specific advantages does each competitor offer over yours currently?

Marketing channels

• Which marketing channel do you intend to leverage to attract new customers?
• What is your estimated marketing budget needed?
• What is the projected cost to acquire a new customer?
• How many of your customers do you instead will return?

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4. Write Your Operational Plan.

Next, you'll need to build your operational plan. This section describes the type of business you'll be running, and includes the steps involved in your operations. 

In it, you should list:

• The equipment and facilities needed
• Who will be involved in the business (employees, contractors)
• Financial requirements for each step
• Milestones & KPIs
• Location of your business
• Zoning & permits required for the business

What equipment, supplies, or permits are needed to run a mini golf course business?

• Mini golf set
• Scoreboard or timer
• Putters and other equipment for putting in order to successfully manage the mini golf course.
• Tee signs and banners
• Marketing materials
• Licenses, permits, insurance, and any local ordinances/regulations may apply.

5. Management & Organization of Your Mini Golf Course Business.

The second part of your mini golf course business plan is to develop a management and organization section.

This section will cover all of the following:

• How many employees you need in order to run your mini golf course business. This should include the roles they will play (for example, one person may be responsible for managing administrative duties while another might be in charge of customer service).
• The structure of your management team. The higher-ups like yourself should be able to delegate tasks through lower-level managers who are directly responsible for their given department (inventory and sales, etc.).
• How you’re going to make sure that everyone on board is doing their job well. You’ll want check-ins with employees regularly so they have time to ask questions or voice concerns if needed; this also gives you time to offer support where necessary while staying informed on how things are going within individual departments too!

6. Mini Golf Course Business Startup Expenses & Captial Needed.

This section should be broken down by month and year. If you are still in the planning stage of your business, it may be helpful to estimate how much money will be needed each month until you reach profitability.

Typically, expenses for your business can be broken into a few basic categories:

Startup Costs

Startup costs are typically the first expenses you will incur when beginning an enterprise. These include legal fees, accounting expenses, and other costs associated with getting your business off the ground. The amount of money needed to start a mini golf course business varies based on many different variables, but below are a few different types of startup costs for a mini golf course business.

Running & Operating Costs

Running costs refer to ongoing expenses related directly with operating your business over time like electricity bills or salaries paid out each month. These types of expenses will vary greatly depending on multiple variables such as location, team size, utility costs, etc.

Marketing & Sales Expenses

You should include any costs associated with marketing and sales, such as advertising and promotions, website design or maintenance. Also, consider any additional expenses that may be incurred if you decide to launch a new product or service line. For example, if your mini golf course business has an existing website that needs an upgrade in order to sell more products or services, then this should be listed here.

7. Financial Plan & Projections

A financial plan is an important part of any business plan, as it outlines how the business will generate revenue and profit, and how it will use that profit to grow and sustain itself. To devise a financial plan for your mini golf course business, you will need to consider a number of factors, including your start-up costs, operating costs, projected revenue, and expenses. 

Here are some steps you can follow to devise a financial plan for your mini golf course business plan:

• Determine your start-up costs: This will include the cost of purchasing or leasing the space where you will operate your business, as well as the cost of buying or leasing any equipment or supplies that you need to start the business.
• Estimate your operating costs: Operating costs will include utilities, such as electricity, gas, and water, as well as labor costs for employees, if any, and the cost of purchasing any materials or supplies that you will need to run your business.
• Project your revenue: To project your revenue, you will need to consider the number of customers you expect to have and the average amount they will spend on each visit. You can use this information to estimate how much money you will make from selling your products or services.
• Estimate your expenses: In addition to your operating costs, you will need to consider other expenses, such as insurance, marketing, and maintenance. You will also need to set aside money for taxes and other fees.
• Create a budget: Once you have estimated your start-up costs, operating costs, revenue, and expenses, you can use this information to create a budget for your business. This will help you to see how much money you will need to start the business, and how much profit you can expect to make.
• Develop a plan for using your profit: Finally, you will need to decide how you will use your profit to grow and sustain your business. This might include investing in new equipment, expanding the business, or saving for a rainy day.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mini Golf Course Business Plans:

Why do you need a business plan for a mini golf course business.

A business plan for a mini golf course business is necessary to outline the key objectives of the business, define target markets, develop operational and financial strategies, and assess potential risks. It can also be used to attract potential investors or secure funding from lenders. A well-developed business plan can be an invaluable tool for launching a successful mini golf course business.

Who should you ask for help with your mini golf course business plan?

It is recommended that you consult a professional business plan consultant to help create your business plan, as they have the appropriate experience and knowledge to create the most comprehensive and successful business plans. Additionally, you could reach out to local mini golf course owners for advice, as they can provide useful tips and suggestions on successful mini golf course operations.

Can you write a mini golf course business plan yourself?

While it is possible to write a mini golf course business plan yourself, it may be beneficial to seek the advice of an experienced business professional or consultant who can provide guidance and recommendations based on their experience. Additionally, there are various online resources and templates that can be used when creating a business plan for a mini golf course.

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Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

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How to Build a Mini Golf Course Business: 6 Tips to Make Sure it is Successful

• February 22, 2022
• Courses,Opportunities,
• Mini Golf Creations

Building a mini golf course business is not as difficult as you might think. To start with, contracting a turnkey company like Mini Golf Creations to design, build and deliver a ‘ready-to-play’ course can make life a whole lot easier. However, before embarking on any new business venture, it’s very…

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How to Build a Successful Mini Golf Course Through Careful Planning

Careful planning is the key to success for any business in any industry. Business owners have several secrets for success, but no one will argue that the planning stages are some of the most crucial components. A successful mini golf course requires meticulous planning in the beginning stages all the way through execution. Developers need to be on top of their game to ensure that construction goes according to plan. Investors need to be kept abreast of all advancements, so they trust that their money is going to good use. With so much to consider, business owners may be wondering how they can build a successful mini golf course business. The key is careful planning from the start.

Pick the Best Location You Can Afford

Location, location, location. You’ve heard it before, and you’ll hear it again: location is everything. The location you choose for miniature golf course can make or break the business. Instead of simply choosing based on cost, go for overall quality. While prime locations for miniature golf courses that are easily accessible and have great road frontage may cost more upfront, the long-term profits will more than make up for it. A high-traffic area with easy accessibility and high visibility is what you need to turn your mini golf course business into a success.

Research the Industry First

Before jumping into any business venture, it is important to have a strong knowledge base as a starting point. The two main forms of research that business owners should conduct are market research and industry research. Do market research to better understand your potential clientele and determine what factors will draw them to your miniature golf course. Market research for a mini golf course not only includes buyer personas, but also demographic information. The more you know about potential customers, the better your mini golf course business will fare in the long run.

Industry research involves learning all that you can about the actual game of mini golf. Hopefully you are passionate about the game to begin with, but even those with a baseline knowledge of how the game works should brush up on the rules and industry trends.

Develop a Business Plan

Once you’ve compiled all the necessary information for your mini golf course venture, the next step is to develop a business plan. A mini golf course business plan should have all the information investors would need to make an informed decision about investing in your business, as well as the financial contributions you plan to make. Having a business plan will enable you to project both long-term and immediate expenses and help avoid you running into surprises.

Learn more about building your own successful mini golf course business with the help of Harris Miniature Golf Courses, Inc . We know all about what it takes to plan, develop, and run state of the art miniature golf courses. Find all the resources you need including a free investor’s kit right on our website. For more information, please feel free to contact us today.

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Miniature Golf Course Business Plan and SWOT Analysis

Miniature Golf Course Business Plan, Marketing Plan, How To Guide, and Funding Directory

The Miniature Golf Course Business Plan and Business Development toolkit features 18 different documents that you can use for capital raising or general business planning purposes. Our product line also features comprehensive information regarding to how to start a Miniature Golf Course business. All business planning packages come with easy-to-use instructions so that you can reduce the time needed to create a professional business plan and presentation.

Your Business Planning Package will be immediately emailed to you after you make your purchase.

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One of the nice things about this business is that they are able to provide a service that is in continued demand on a year-round basis. Families, especially those with children, are going to want friendly and affordable forms of entertainment. Additionally, many young children like having their birthday parties at miniature golf courses. As such, these businesses remain popular in any economic climate. The gross margins generated from sales typically range anywhere from 85% to 95% to thing on whether or not credit cards are accepted and the types of concessions that are offered.

Given the highly predictable streams of revenue and substantial tangible asset base of the miniature golf course – most financial institutions and private investors are willing to put up the necessary capital in order to get this type of business off the ground. Of course, a miniature golf course business plan is going to be needed. As with all other types of business planning documentation, this document should feature a three year profit and loss statement, cash flow analysis, balance sheet, breakeven analysis, and business ratios page that features information that is standard to the retail entertainment industry.

As it relates to industry research, miniature golf courses generate in excess of $1.5 billion per year among 9,000 small courses throughout the United States. The industry employs 50,000 people. The growth of this industry is expected to remain in your lockstep with that of the economy in general. It should be noted that in times of economic recession, most miniature golf courses are able to remain afloat given that it is considered to be a moderately low cost form of entertainment.

Within any type of business planning documentation there should also be a discussion regarding the demographics of people that will be targeted at the onset of operations. This includes an overview of median household income, median family income, family net worth, number of homes within the target market radius, percentage of families with children under the age of 12, population size, and population density. One of the things that also needs to be discussed is competitive issues and that includes discussing other miniature golf courses, arcades, children’s entertainment centers, and other venues that provide similar or identical services to that of the miniature golf course. A special focus should be paod to businesses that provide arcade games given that many more children have an interest in this rather than miniature golf these days. However, miniature golf remains popular among adults that want to take the children out for physical activity.

A miniature golf course marketing plan also needs to be developed in conjunction with the business plan. In many cases, many miniature golf course companies will directly reach out to schools, corporations, little leagues, and other venues in order to develop the brand-name visibility of the business. Referrals are especially important from school focused events as well as other sponsored events given that this is usually targeted towards the demographics of people that have children. A broad-based marketing campaign should be implemented that includes the distribution of flyers for free rounds miniature golf, discounts on concessions, and other related ways that the business can easily introduce themselves to the general public.

A presence on the Internet is also extremely important for new miniature golf courses many people use search engines and social media platforms in order to find new businesses. A proprietary website that showcases the location, hours of operation, cost associated with miniature golf, how to host a party there, and other relevant information should be included on the website. This website listed among all major search engines including Google, Bing, and Yahoo. One of the ways that people further reduce the visibility of the website is through the use of search engine optimization and pay per click marketing. However, given the competition within any local market for a miniature golf course is somewhat limited – pay per click and other forms of online advertising can be kept somewhat to a minimum. Social media platforms are also especially important marketing platforms for miniature golf courses. Many of these companies will often maintain profiles on FaceBook, Google+, Instagram, and Twitter to showcase discounts and deals to the general public.

A miniature golf course SWOT analysis should be produced in conjunction with all other documentation. As it relates to strengths, miniature golf courses are able to generate substantial gross margins from the sale usage of the facility, sales and concessions, posting birthday events, and hosting corporate events. The barriers to entry once established are considered to be pretty high given that most people will not open up a second miniature golf work location within a competing market.

For weaknesses, as more and more people are connected to the Internet and enjoy gaming – the demand for outdoor and indoor physical activity businesses like miniature golf courses has declined slightly. However, people are always going to want to go out and enjoy themselves outside of their homes and as such the demand for venues like miniature golf courses will always be there. Once established, competitive issues are minimal. The operating expenses of the miniature golf course depending on the size and scope of the facility can be significant.

For opportunities, the common ways that miniature golf courses have sought to increase their revenues is by offering memberships that would be akin to that of the country club with the exception of these memberships only cost $50 to $100 per year. This allows individuals to play as many rounds of miniature golf is a like at the facility. This can be substantial boost to the profitability of the business given that it will smooth out revenues during off seasons. Additionally, an entrepreneur that is in this field can quickly develop additional miniature golf courses outside of the initial ones target market radius.

The threats, there’s really nothing that is going to impact the way that these businesses conduct business moving forward. There is a continued and strong demand for families that want to enjoy affordable entertainment. These businesses can be very lucrative if they are operated properly with a focus on managing the underlying operating expenses.

How to Build a Miniature Golf Course- Custom Designed Plans and Layouts

Email : [email protected].

How to build a miniature golf course

Introduction

Building a miniature golf course is a fun and rewarding DIY project. If you have the space and the time, you can create your own unique miniature golf course that will be the talk of your neighborhood. Here’s how to do it:

Find a suitable location

It’s important to find a location that is accessible to your target audience. Consider where people who would want to play mini golf are most likely to be located and then look for appropriate venues in that area.

You’ll also need to check with the city’s zoning regulations to ensure that there aren’t any restrictions on building miniature golf courses within your chosen location. Depending on how much space you have available, this could mean having restrictions placed on how high or low your fences must be built or if certain types of signs are allowed (for example, a sign advertising an upcoming event).

When choosing a place for your course, consider its cost as well as whether it has good access to utilities such as water and electricity. Another thing worth considering is safety–you don’t want people getting hurt by tripping over loose gravel while they’re playing!

Find a designer

Miniature golf designers are the people who will turn your ideas into reality. They create the layouts, the holes, and the challenges, they determine how many holes your course will be and how long it will take to play them. A good designer will also be able to give you advice on what kind of equipment is best suited for your course–and can advise on other aspects such as maintenance costs (which we’ll get into later).

You can find designers through various channels: social media groups like Facebook or LinkedIn; online forums where miniature golf enthusiasts share tips and tricks; or by asking family members who might have connections in the business world. Once you’ve found someone who looks promising, make sure that both parties communicate well with each other before signing any contracts!

Choose your theme

Once you have decided on a location, it’s time to choose a theme. The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a theme is that it must be appropriate for your location and the size of your course. For example, if you live near an amusement park with an existing miniature golf course, then using their existing theme may be the best option for drawing in customers who are already familiar with their brand. However, if you’re starting from scratch or building your own course without any previous experience–and especially if your customers aren’t familiar with miniature golf as an activity–it might be better for them to choose something more exciting and fun than just another generic castle or pirate ship design!

Create a layout with your designer

When you have a designer, they can help you with this. The designer will create a layout of the course and include an overview of it, a list of holes and obstacles, and tee boxes.

Set up tee boxes, holes, obstacles, and greens

• Trees, bushes, and rocks are a good way of creating obstacles for the golfers.
• Greens, ramps, and hills can be used to make the holes more challenging.
• Obstacles such as water features or other features such as windmills can also be added to your miniature golf course design if you want it to be really fun!

Building a miniature golf course is fun and rewarding!

You can build your own miniature golf course in just about any space, whether it’s your backyard or an empty lot. If you’re handy with tools, this project will be easy for you to tackle. You’ll also learn how to use power tools like drills and saws–skills that are useful in many other areas of life as well!

In addition to being fun and educational, building a mini golf course will give you something valuable: profits from people who come out to play on it!

Miniature golf courses are a great way to entertain your family and friends. They can be built in your backyard or even inside your home! The best part about them is that they don’t take up much space, so if you have limited space but still want an outdoor activity for everyone, then this might be the perfect option for you.

Master Acquiring Mini Golf: Ultimate Checklist!

By henry sheykin, resources on miniature golf course.

• Financial Model
• Business Plan
• Value Proposition
• One-Page Business Plan
• SWOT Analysis
• Business Model
• Marketing Plan

Are you considering buying or acquiring a miniature golf course business? With the popularity of this industry on the rise, it's no surprise that many entrepreneurs are looking to get in on the action. In fact, according to recent statistics, the miniature golf course industry in the US is experiencing steady growth, with revenue expected to reach $1.2 billion in 2021. So, if you're ready to dive into this thriving market, here's a checklist to help you navigate the process and set yourself up for success.

First and foremost, it's crucial to conduct market research to understand the demand for miniature golf in your target area. Identify any gaps in the market and take note of current trends to ensure your business stands out and attracts customers.

Once you've pinpointed potential locations, evaluate the financial performance of any existing miniature golf course businesses you're considering acquiring. This will give you insight into their profitability and help you determine if they are a wise investment.

Next, you'll need to secure financing or funding to fund the acquisition. Whether you explore loans, investors, or other financing options, make sure you have a solid financial plan in place before moving forward.

Developing a thorough business plan is essential for any acquisition. Outline your goals, target audience, pricing strategy, and potential revenue streams such as snacks, drinks, and merchandise sales. Consider hosting events or tournaments to attract even more customers.

Performing due diligence and engaging professionals, such as lawyers and accountants, is critical during the acquisition process. They will ensure all legal and financial aspects are in order, protecting both parties involved.

Once negotiations are complete, it's time to finalize the purchase agreement . Make sure all terms and conditions are clearly defined and agreed upon before moving forward.

Before opening your doors, it's crucial to obtain necessary licenses and permits . Research local regulations and ensure you comply with all requirements to avoid any legal issues down the line.

Finally, implement a solid financial model and review it regularly to monitor the performance and profitability of your miniature golf course business. Stay proactive in adjusting pricing, promotions, and services to maximize your success.

With careful planning, research, and execution, acquiring a miniature golf course business can be a lucrative venture. Follow this checklist, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a successful player in the industry.

Conduct Market Research

Before purchasing or acquiring a miniature golf course business, it is crucial to conduct thorough market research to ensure its viability and potential for success. This step will help you understand the demand for miniature golf in your desired location and provide insights into the competition and target audience.

To begin, gather data on the local population, visitor demographics, and the overall demand for recreational activities in the area. This information will help you determine if there is a sufficient customer base to support your miniature golf business.

Next, analyze the competitive landscape by identifying existing miniature golf courses in the vicinity. Evaluate their offerings, pricing, customer reviews, and overall popularity. This analysis will help you identify any gaps in the market or opportunities to differentiate your business.

Tips for conducting market research:

• Utilize online resources and local databases to gather demographic and population data.
• Visit and observe existing miniature golf courses to assess their customer traffic and offerings.
• Interview potential customers to gauge their interest in miniature golf and their preferences for amenities and pricing.
• Analyze online reviews and feedback about existing miniature golf courses to identify areas for improvement and customer satisfaction.

Once you have gathered the necessary information, you can use it to evaluate the market potential and determine the feasibility of acquiring a miniature golf course business. This knowledge will also assist you in developing a strong business plan and making informed decisions throughout the acquisition process.

Identify Potential Locations

Identifying potential locations for your miniature golf course business is a crucial step in ensuring its success. Location plays a significant role in attracting customers and generating revenue. Here are some important considerations when looking for potential locations:

• Demographics: Research the local demographics to determine if the area has a sufficient population and target market for your miniature golf course. Consider factors such as age groups, family presence, and disposable income.
• Accessibility: Look for locations that are easily accessible to your target audience. Consider proximity to residential areas, schools, parks, or tourist attractions, as these can increase foot traffic and visibility.
• Competition: Evaluate the competition in the area. Determine if there are any existing miniature golf courses nearby and assess their offerings, pricing, and customer base. Consider finding a location that has limited direct competition.
• Size and Layout: Assess the available space and determine if it is suitable for building a miniature golf course. Consider the necessary space for the number of holes, landscaping, and other amenities you plan to offer.
• Visibility and Signage: Consider locations with good visibility from main roads or high foot traffic areas. The presence of signage opportunities can help attract customers and create brand awareness.
• Visit different potential locations to assess the surrounding area and gauge the level of interest from potential customers.
• Consider consulting with a real estate professional who specializes in commercial properties to help identify suitable locations.
• Research the local zoning and land use regulations to ensure the chosen location allows for a miniature golf course business.

By carefully identifying potential locations that align with your target market and business goals, you can increase the likelihood of a successful miniature golf course venture.

Evaluate The Financial Performance Of The Existing Business

When considering the purchase of a miniature golf course business, it is crucial to thoroughly evaluate its financial performance. This step is essential in determining whether the business is a sound investment and has the potential for profitability.

Start by requesting financial statements from the current owner or management. This includes income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. These documents provide an overview of the business's revenue, expenses, assets, and liabilities.

Examine the revenue trends over the past few years to understand the profitability of the business. Look for any patterns or fluctuations in revenue, and assess whether the course has been able to maintain a steady stream of customers.

Next, analyze the cost structure of the business. Take into account expenses such as maintenance and repairs, utilities, insurance, labor costs, and marketing expenses. Compare these costs to the revenue generated to determine the profit margin .

Additionally, consider the pricing strategy of the course. Evaluate whether the current pricing aligns with the market and if it provides a competitive advantage. Consider factors such as the average ticket price, discounts offered, and any package deals or promotions.

It is also important to assess the debt and liabilities of the business. Look into any outstanding loans or debts that may affect the financial stability of the course. This information will help you determine the overall financial risk involved in acquiring the business.

Tips for Evaluating the Financial Performance:

• Compare the financial performance of the miniature golf course business to industry benchmarks to gauge its competitiveness.
• Consider consulting with a financial professional or accountant to thoroughly review the financial statements and provide expert insight.
• Take into account any potential growth opportunities that may increase the revenue and profitability of the business.
• Assess the impact of seasonality on the financial performance of the business, considering fluctuations in revenue during different months or seasons.

Secure Financing Or Funding

Acquiring a miniature golf course business requires significant capital investment. Therefore, it is crucial to secure adequate financing or funding to support the purchase. Here are some steps to consider:

• Assess your financial situation: Evaluate your personal finances and determine how much you can contribute towards the purchase. This self-assessment will help you determine the amount of money you need to borrow or seek from investors.
• Research financing options: Research and identify available financing options, such as bank loans, Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, or alternative lenders. Consider their eligibility criteria, interest rates, repayment terms, and any additional fees or requirements.
• Prepare a comprehensive business plan: A well-prepared business plan can help you present a compelling case to potential lenders or investors. Include detailed financial projections, market analysis, and information about the specific miniature golf course business you intend to acquire.
• Consider reaching out to local banks or credit unions that may have experience financing small businesses in your area.
• Explore whether there are any government grants or assistance programs available for entrepreneurs looking to acquire an existing business.
• Be prepared to provide collateral or personal guarantees to secure the financing, as lenders may require them to mitigate their risk.
• Approach lenders or investors: Contact potential lenders or investors and present your business plan and financial projections. Demonstrate your understanding of the miniature golf course industry, market opportunities, and potential profitability to increase your chances of securing financing. Be prepared to answer any questions or concerns they may have.
• Negotiate financing terms: Once you receive offers from lenders or investors, carefully review the terms, including interest rates, repayment schedules, and any additional conditions. Negotiate these terms to ensure they align with your financial goals and capabilities.
• Finalize financing arrangements: Once you have selected a financing option, work closely with the lender or investor to finalize the arrangements. Provide any necessary documentation, complete the required paperwork, and ensure you fully understand your obligations and responsibilities.

Securing financing or funding is a critical step in acquiring a miniature golf course business. Take the time to carefully assess your financial situation, research available options, and present a strong business plan to increase your chances of success.

Develop A Thorough Business Plan

Developing a thorough business plan is crucial when purchasing or acquiring a miniature golf course business. A well-crafted business plan will serve as a roadmap that outlines your goals, strategies, and financial projections.

Firstly, identify your target market by conducting market research to understand the demand and competition in your chosen location. This will help you tailor your offerings and pricing to attract and retain customers.

Next, define your business objectives and outline how you plan to achieve them. This includes setting revenue and profit targets, determining your marketing and advertising strategies, and identifying any unique selling points that will set your miniature golf course apart from competitors.

When developing the financial section of your business plan, be sure to include projected revenue and expenses based on realistic assumptions. This should also consider seasonality and any additional revenue streams, such as food and beverage sales or hosting events.

Additionally, outline your operational plan to highlight how the business will run efficiently. This should include details on staffing requirements, maintenance schedules, and potential partnerships, such as with local event planners or schools for field trips.

A thorough market analysis is crucial to understanding the competitive landscape and identifying potential risks and opportunities. This should include information on local demographics, customer preferences, and an assessment of the existing miniature golf course's performance if applicable.

Finally, include a comprehensive marketing strategy that outlines how you plan to attract and retain customers. This may include online advertising, social media marketing, partnerships with local businesses, or traditional advertising methods.

Tips for Developing a Thorough Business Plan:

• Research industry best practices and consider incorporating them into your plan.
• Seek guidance from industry experts or consult a business advisor to ensure your plan is comprehensive and aligned with industry standards.
• Regularly review and update your business plan as market conditions and business needs evolve.

Perform Due Diligence And Engage Professionals

Performing due diligence is a crucial step in acquiring a miniature golf course business. It involves thoroughly examining the financial, legal, and operational aspects of the business to ensure there are no hidden risks or liabilities. Engaging professionals such as accountants, lawyers, and business consultants can greatly assist in this process.

1. Financial Due Diligence: Hire an accountant or financial advisor to review the financial records of the miniature golf course business. This includes analyzing the income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements to assess the financial health and profitability of the business. They can also help identify any potential financial risks or irregularities.

2. Legal Due Diligence: Engage a lawyer specializing in business acquisitions to conduct a thorough legal due diligence process. This involves reviewing contracts, leases, permits, and licenses to ensure they are valid and transferable. The lawyer should also assess any potential legal liabilities or pending litigation that could affect the purchase of the business.

3. Operational Due Diligence: Collaborate with a business consultant or operations expert to evaluate the day-to-day operations of the miniature golf course. They can assess the efficiency of the current processes, staffing needs, and overall management structure. This will help you identify any areas for improvement or potential operational challenges.

Tips for Performing Due Diligence:

• Request access to all relevant financial and operational documents, including tax returns, sales reports, and maintenance records.
• Interview current employees and gather feedback on their experiences working at the business.
• Seek professional advice from experienced individuals who have previously acquired or operated a miniature golf course.
• Consider hiring a professional appraiser to assess the market value of the business.
• Ensure confidentiality agreements are in place to protect sensitive information during the due diligence process.

By performing due diligence and engaging professionals, you can obtain a comprehensive understanding of the miniature golf course business you are considering acquiring. This will help you make informed decisions and mitigate potential risks, ultimately increasing your chances of a successful purchase.

Negotiate And Finalize The Purchase Agreement

Once you have found a miniature golf course business that meets your criteria and you are interested in purchasing, it's time to negotiate and finalize the purchase agreement. This step is crucial in ensuring a smooth transition and obtaining a fair deal. Here are some important considerations:

• Engage an experienced attorney: Hiring a competent attorney who specializes in business acquisitions is essential. They will guide you through the negotiation process, help draft and review the purchase agreement, and ensure your rights and interests are protected.
• Thoroughly review the terms: Carefully examine all terms and conditions outlined in the purchase agreement. Pay attention to key elements such as the purchase price, payment terms, asset allocation, liabilities, and any contingencies or warranties included.
• Conduct due diligence: Before finalizing the agreement, conduct a thorough due diligence to verify the accuracy of the seller's financial statements, contracts, permits, and any other relevant information. This will help you identify any potential risks or issues that may impact the business's value.
• Negotiate fair terms: Negotiation is a crucial part of the process. Be prepared to discuss and propose amendments or adjustments to the purchase agreement based on your findings during due diligence. Communicate openly and constructively with the seller to reach an agreement that benefits both parties.
• Consider professional valuation: If you are unsure about the value of the business, it may be beneficial to hire a professional business valuator who can provide an objective assessment. This can help you negotiate a fair purchase price and understand the business's profit potential.
• Engage experts for advice: Throughout the negotiation process, seek advice from professionals such as accountants and tax advisors to ensure that you understand the financial and tax implications of the purchase agreement. Their expertise can help you make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.
• Stay focused on your goals and priorities during negotiations, but also remain open to compromises that can lead to a mutually beneficial agreement.
• Document all agreements and changes in writing to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings.
• Be patient and diligent throughout the negotiation process. Rushing or skipping important steps could have long-term consequences.

By carefully negotiating and finalizing the purchase agreement, you can ensure that both parties are satisfied with the terms and set the foundation for a successful acquisition of a miniature golf course business.

Obtain Necessary Licenses And Permits

Obtaining the necessary licenses and permits is a crucial step in buying or acquiring a miniature golf course business. These legal requirements ensure that your business operates within the boundaries set by local and state regulations, enabling you to provide a safe and compliant environment for your customers.

1. Research and identify the specific licenses and permits: Begin by researching the licenses and permits that are required to operate a miniature golf course business in your chosen location. Contact the local municipality or governing body to get a comprehensive list of the necessary documentation. Requirements may vary based on your specific location, so it is essential to be diligent during this process.

2. Complete the required applications: Once you have identified the licenses and permits you need, fill out the necessary applications accurately and completely. Pay close attention to any specific requirements or supporting documents that must be included, as incomplete applications could lead to delays or denials.

3. Submit applications and pay fees: Submit your completed applications along with the appropriate fees to the designated authorities. Ensure that you meet any deadlines and follow any specific submission instructions outlined by the licensing or permitting agencies.

4. Allow sufficient time for processing: The processing time for licenses and permits can vary, so it is crucial to anticipate potential delays. Start the application process well in advance of your intended opening date to allow ample time for review and approval.

5. Arrange inspections, if required: Depending on the type of license or permit, inspections may be necessary to ensure that your miniature golf course business meets safety and operational standards. Coordinate any required inspections with the relevant authorities and address any recommended modifications or improvements promptly.

• Engage with a professional licensing consultant or attorney who specializes in the local laws and regulations related to operating a miniature golf course. Their expertise can ensure that you have a complete understanding of the necessary licenses and permits.
• Maintain accurate records of all licenses and permits obtained, including expiration dates and renewal requirements. Compliance with ongoing licensing obligations is essential to avoid penalties or disruptions to your business operations.
• Periodically review local regulations to stay informed about any updates or changes that may impact your business. Stay proactive and ensure your licenses and permits remain valid and up to date.

Implement The Financial Model And Review Regularly

Once you have acquired the miniature golf course business, it's important to implement the financial model you developed during the business planning phase.

Start by tracking all revenue and expenses accurately and consistently. This will allow you to monitor the financial health of the business and make informed decisions moving forward.

Regularly review your financial statements to assess the profitability and revenue streams of the business. Look for areas of improvement or potential risks and identify opportunities for growth .

• Pay close attention to the revenue generated from mini golf rounds, as well as additional income sources such as food and beverage sales or event hosting.
• Compare your actual financial performance to the projections outlined in your business plan. Analyze any discrepancies and adjust your strategies accordingly.
• Consider benchmarking against industry standards to determine the competitiveness and efficiency of your financial operations.
• Regularly review your pricing strategy to ensure it remains competitive and profitable.
• Revisit your marketing efforts and promotional activities to boost customer acquisition and retention.
• Engage with your customers to gather feedback and insights that can help refine your financial model and improve the overall customer experience.

By implementing the financial model and reviewing it regularly, you'll be able to make informed decisions to optimize the profitability and success of your miniature golf course business.

Acquiring a miniature golf course business requires careful planning and consideration. By following this checklist, you can navigate the process successfully and increase your chances of running a profitable and enjoyable business. Conduct market research to understand the demand and competition, identify potential locations that are easily accessible and attractive to customers, and evaluate the financial performance of the existing business. Secure financing or funding, develop a comprehensive business plan, and engage professionals for due diligence. Negotiate and finalize the purchase agreement, obtain necessary licenses and permits, and implement a strong financial model. Regularly review your financial performance and continue to seek opportunities for growth and revenue diversification. With the right strategy and dedication, running a miniature golf course business can be a rewarding venture.

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Moscow City Golf Club

It is centrally located, just off Kutuzovsky Prospect, within 5 minutes drive from the Victory Park and the Triumphal Arch. Right in the center, yet green and picturesque with lakes and 15 Century Church next to it. Moscow City Golf Club was the first one to open in Russia on September 15, 1987 at the urban wasteland on the street Dovzhenko held long-awaited 'ground breaking' - famous sportsmen Pele, Mike Tyson, Sven Tumba and Alexander Ragulin made symbolic throws with the golf clubs. This day is considered to be the day of foundation of Moscow City Golf Club. The founder of the club is Sven (Tumba) Johansson ex World Champion hockey player. Thousands of golf fans gather here every season.

Throughout its history, Moscow City Golf Club tries to maintain and develop friendly relations with the golf clubs around the world, organizing the exchange of delegations, inter-club tournaments, social events, thereby making the life of the club members more interesting. Moscow City Golf Club has signed a cooperation agreement with American Golf Club 'Deep Cliff Golf Course', Finnish 'Aura Golf', French 'Cannes Mandle' and Cyprus' Aphrodite Hills Golf '.

Each year Moscow City Golf Club holds a lot of different tournaments and activities like: children's charity tournaments and much more attracting numerous visitors.

June 26, 2004 the Club House was open again after restoration. The opening ceremony was attended by the founder of the Moscow City Golf Club Sven Tumba Johansson and officials, senior officials from the Moscow Government.

As a result, the restoration Club House was transformed into a wonderful place for relaxition and organizing events. It has spacious and luxuriously furnished rooms available for the members of the Moscow City Golf Club: restaurant, golf bar, library, cigar and billiard room, conference room, office «Old Tom», Beauty Salon & SPA, gym, showers, saunas and relaxation rooms with personal lockers. Interior of the Club House was completed in classic English style by the famous designer from Hong Kong Garvin Chen (architect Garvin Chen).

Moscow City Golf Club has a nine holes field. Six of the nine holes are par-4 and three holes are par-3. The total playing distance is 2.343 metres. Detailed description of each hole you can find on the site of the Moscow City Golf Club with the plan.

Moscow City Golf Club is a wonderfull place with impecable service, the members can gain privileges in foregn golf clubs including in the International Association of the Clubs.

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Mini golf fun at Golf 360 in Tauranga.

Mini Golf at Golf 360 - Tauranga

2 Matapihi Road , Mount Maunganui , New Zealand .

In the mood for some mini golf fun? Head to Golf 360 in Tauranga. Our 18-hole course features Mount Maunganui-inspired themes, making it a blast for all ages and skill levels.

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No need to be a golfing pro – grab a putter (we provide them) and keep score on the card we give you. Ready for some friendly competition? Our course is perfect for a fun outing with friends and family. It's also great for groups, birthday parties, and special events. After your game, snap a pic by our Champions Wall and relax in our outdoor area. Want more action? Check out our driving range, golf shop, and even a golf simulator! Tee up for some unforgettable fun at Golf 360.

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Health & Beauty in Moscow

Moscow health & beauty guide, fitness centers.

There are literally hundreds of gyms and fitness centers available to take care of health & beauty of expats in Moscow. The majority are extremely well-equipped, most including a swimming pool, extensive class schedule, open courts for many sports, and also saunas, beauty salons, and tanning facilities. Expect to pay about 28,000 – 62,000 RUR for an annual subscription (in cash, upfront).

These Moscow fitness centers provide information in English and may have some English-speaking staff:

• Gold’s Gym http://www.goldsgym.ru http://www.goldsgym.com/ The international chain – if you have a membership from your home country, you may have guest privileges here. There are two locations:Dinamo (a favorite with expatriates) Offers a fully equipped gym and cardio area, extensive schedule of aerobics classes, designated courts for football, basketball, volleyball, tennis and squash area, swimming pool, beauty salon, massage, and tanning services. Body revolution programs twice annually. Leningradsky Prosp. 31/30 Closest metro: Dinamo +7 (495) 931 96 16 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 23:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 22:00Lefort Has all imaginable cardio equipment, free weights, more than 25 regularly scheduled group classes (including yoga and pilates), spinning equipment, designated courts for football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, a table tennis area, sauna, and massage room. Elektrozavodskaya Ul. 27/3 Closest metro: Eletrozavodskaya or Preobrazhenskaya Ploshad +7 (495) 662-46 53 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 23:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 22:00
• Planet Fitness http://www.fitness.ru/ A more affordable option among Moscow’s fitness centers. Annual memberships start at 29,000 RUR. There are 15 locations in Moscow, most of which offer free weights, cardio equipment, a swimming pool, aerobics and dance classes, and boxing. Many also have massage and tanning. Typical opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 24:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 22:00 (may vary by location)
• World Class http://www.worldclass.ru/ With 16 locations in Moscow, you’re sure to find one nearby. The biggest and best offer a full range of fitness and cardiovascular equipment, group classes in everything from aerobics to martial arts, personal training, swimming pool, kid zones, and spa and solarium. Typical opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 24:00; Sat-Sun 9:00 – 24:00 (may vary by location)

Golf Courses

There are three golf course in Moscow and the Moscow area:

• Moscow City Golf Club http://www.mcgc.ru/home_en/ This 9-hole course is conveniently located in the city. Also offers a practice area, pro shop, tennis courts, spa and restaurant Ulitsa Dovzhenko 1 Closest metro: Kievskaya (then by bus) +7 (499) 147-8330
• Le Meridien Moscow Country Club This 18-hole golf course is home to the Russian Open (PGA European Tour) every summer. It is part of an exclusive private membership resort in the Moscow suburb of Nakhabino, about 40 minutes out of the city. Also has a comprehensive sports complex and excellent restaurant. +7 (495) 626-5910 e-mail:  [email protected]
• Moscow Golf Club http://www.moscowgolf.ru/eng/main/ Moscow’s newest 18-hole course opened in May 2009. Also offers tennis and a fitness center. Ostrovnaya ul., 2 Closest metro: Krilatskoe +7 (495) 234-7451

Tennis Courts

Many fitness centers in Moscow offer facilities for playing tennis, as do the golf courses. But you can also try a specialized tennis club, or the facilities are the stadiums:

• Zhukovka Tennis Centre Located 10 km beyond the MKAD in the village Zhukova, this center offers 10 indoor tennis courts; tennis school, massage room and bicycle rental. 1 Illinskoye Shosse, Zhukovo + 7 (495) 418-3701 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 8:00 – 22:00
• Luzhniki Sports Complex This popular stadium has two full-size tennis courts in addition to a great range of other facilities. Luzhnetskaya Nab. 24 Closest metro: Sportivnaya +7 (495) 637-0262 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 – 22:00

Swimming Pools

The great majority of fitness centers in Moscow also have swimming pools. But you can also easily find great pools and even waterparks without a gym membership.

• Olympic Sports Complex This stadium has the best swimming pool in all of Moscow. Note that you must bring a medical certificate showing you are free of skin, and other, conditions that can be transmitted through the water (can be issued at any public clinic). Olympisky Prospekt 16/18 Closest metro: Prospekt Mira +7 (495) 288-5453
• Chaika Another nice pool, located on the circle metro line. You will also need to present a medical certificate, but you can get one on the spot (valid for a month) from the swimming pool medical department (open 8:30 – 22:00) Turchaninov Per. 1/3 Closest metro: Park Kultury +7 (499) 246-1344
• Kimberlyland http://www.kimberlyland.ru/ A great waterpark with 5 pools, slides, water games, and a special kids club. Also has a large gym, mini-golf course, beauty salon, and restaurant on site. Azovskaya Ul. 24 Closest metro: Sevastopolskaya +7 (495) 310-0401

Yoga Centers

There are numerous yoga centers in Moscow, and of course many fitness centers also offer yoga classes. The following yoga center has English-speaking instructors available:

• Ashtanga Yoga Center http://www.yoga108.com/en/about/ Hatha Yoga at various levels. Instructors speak both Russian and English. One class costs 350 -500 RUR; a monthly membership is 2200 – 2700 RUR. They have four locations in Moscow:Stary Tolmachevsky Per 7 (inside “Orbita” center) Closest metro: Novokuznetskaya +7 (495) 953-6957Zoologicheskaya Ul 30 Closest metro: Mayakovskaya, Barrikadnaya +7 (495) 550-9646Ostozhenka Ul 8 (inside “Sambo” club) Closest metro: Kropotkinskaya +7 (495) 201-7209Bolshoy Vlasyevsky Per 10 Closest metro: Arbatskaya or Kropotkinskaya +7 (495) 300-4587

Football (Soccer) Fields

Many fitness centers provide facilities for football, as do most stadiums (see Entertainment > Sports Events). You may also enjoy getting involved with the following expatriate football groups:

• Expat Over 30s Football League A league of 8 teams that plays weekly at Dynamo Stadium. Games are 11-a-side with professional referees. New players age 28 and over with playing experience are recruited at the beginning of the season. http://www.moscowfootball.com/
• Women’s Football Club Open to all, and emphasizes fun over professional play. Meets Sundays from 17:00 to 19:00 near metro Aeroport. Contact: Natalie [email protected]

Ice Skating Rinks

Ice skating is very popular in Moscow. In the winter, there are open-air rinks all around the city and at Gorky Park. There are also numerous indoor rinks:

• Umka Levoberezhnaya Ul 12/1 Closest metro: Rechnoy Vokzal +7 (495) 458-1084 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 – 21:00; Sat 19:45 – 20:45; Sun 18:30 – 19:30
• Raduzhny Chobotovskaya Ul 6 Closest metro: Prospekt Vernadskogo +7 (495) 733-0369 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 8:00 – 21:00; Sat 17:00 – 20:00; Sun 17:00 – 18:00
• Ice Palace Yuzhny Bulatnikovskaya 2 Closest metro: Prazhskaya +7 (495) 383-8738 Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7:00 – 22:00; Sat-Sun 21:00 – 22:00
• Ice Palace Rus Voronezhskaya Ul 13/3 Closest metro: Domodedovskaya +7 (495) 399-1327 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 – 24:00
• Ledovy Dvorets (Offers skating classes) Volgogradsky Prospect 46/15 Closest metro: Tekstilshchiki +7 (495) 179-3964 Opening hours: Mon-Sun 7:00 – 24:00

Each MEGA Mall (see Shopping) also has an ice skating rink.

Skiing and Snowboarding Slopes

• Krylatskoe Downhill skiing and snowboarding on a 400-meter slope. Krylastskaya Ul 2 Closest metro: Krylastskoye or Molodezhnaya (then take bus number 229 or 829)
• Volen Ski Park http://www.volen.ru A ski resort with hotel, restaurants, and an excellent ski school and ski rentals. North of the city. To get there, head out on Dimitrovskoe Schosse; turn left 46 km beyond the MKAD, and follow the signs. +7 (495) 993-95-40; 993-95-02 [email protected] Moscow office: Olimpiyskiy prospect, 7 ste 411/ + 7 (495) 961 00 50

Besides these two slopes, Moscow offers a wealth of possibilities for cross-country skiing, especially in parks in the outskirts of the city including Sokolniki, Bitsevskiy Park, Kuzminki, Vorobievy Gory, and Yakhroma.

Horse Riding Facilities

There are many locations for horse riding in and around Moscow. The following two have English-speaking instructors available:

• Pradar Individual horse-riding lessons with qualified English-speaking instructors. Single admission to the Club is 1750 RUR, or purchase a monthly horse-riding card for 18,000-24,000. Begovaya Ul 17 Closest metro: Begovaya +7 (495) 945 05 87 E-mail:  [email protected]
• Hippodrome Complex Individual horse-riding lessons with qualified English- and German-speaking instructors available. Begovaya Ul 22/1 Closest metro: Begovaya +7 (495) 945 50 59

Rock Climbing

The following rock climbing school offers English-language instruction:

• AlexClimb Indoor Rockclimbing http://www.alexclimb.com/en_rockschol_01.php Operates from September to May and organizes training across indoor and outdoor locations in Moscow; also organizes tours around Russia and internationally. You can purchase 8 two-hour sessions with an English-speaking instructor in a group of 4-8 people for 5,400 RUR (plus entrance to the rock climbing gym). Individual trainings also available.

The following expat club is a fun way to meet people and play rugby at the same time:

• Moscow Dragons Rugby Club http://moscowdragonsrfc.com Play rugby and get involved in many social and charitable events.

Paintball Fields

Paintball is increasingly popular with teenagers even in Moscow. The following two locations are available:

• Action Paintball Games Panfilova Ul 20-2 Closest metro: Sokol +7 (499) 796 46 46
• Paintball Sports Club A large outdoor complex,10 kilometers outside the MKAD. Horse riding is also available. +7 (495) 772 88 80, 918 45 80

Field Hockey

The following expat club is a fun way to meet people and play hockey at the same time:

• Expat Field Hockey Club A club that welcomes beginners, and both men and women. Meets Saturday from 15:00 to 16:30 at Sokolniki Football Training Center (closest metro: Sokolniki) Equipment is provided, and the sessions cost 250 RUR per person each. Contact: Vineet Arora [email protected]

Useful links

• http://www.101.ru A popular online Russian radio station.
• http://www.masterRussian.com Site where you can master Russian grammar, learn new vocabulary and practice speaking and reading Russian.
• http://www.translit.ru A transliteration site – type in Roman letters and they are automatically converted to Cyrillic.

Interesting fact

Whilst all reasonable care has been taken in the preparation of this publication, the owner of Expatinfodesk.com does not accept any responsibility for any loss suffered by any person acting or refraining from action as a result of relying upon its contents.

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