The homeschool marketplace is exciting and growing. There are many opportunities for new authors, speakers, and publishers to share their experience and expertise.
We have had many people mentor and encourage us over the years as we built our business, and we would be honored to pass that support on to you. Here are some general principles to help you get started.
1. Think about what you really want to do.
Do you want to encourage homeschooling parents by writing a blog, creating a podcast, or speaking at events?
Do you want to publish curriculum or other resources? What format would they take--printed materials, digital materials, videos, interactive online courses?
Do you want to run your own business or work for someone else?
2. Look at what's already out there.
You don't want to reproduce what other companies are already doing. Take some time to research your specific niche (math curriculum, art instruction, etc.). What else is out there? What can you offer that's different?
Ask homeschooling parents about the struggles they are facing. What curriculum options are they having trouble finding? The answers you get may be just what you need to hear.
Soon after we started our business, a mom told us she wanted a Tennessee history curriculum. That launched us on a path we are still on today--developing history and geography curriculum.
3. Start building an audience.
Even if you are not ready to launch, you should start building an audience of people who might be interested in what you have to offer. It's okay if it's a small group. Small is better than non-existent.
You can use social media to get attention, but you should also find a way to communicate directly to your core group. Email addresses have traditionally been the best option. As younger parents use email less, you may find that phone numbers for texting or another communication channel works better. Don't depend on social media exclusively because you don't control those platforms.
4. Join the Homeschool Trade Association.
If you are serious about reaching the homeschool market, this is one of the simplest and most effective moves you can make. As an HTA member, you can connect directly with other experienced leaders in the homeschool marketplace. You can also learn from the HTA's professional training resources and market research. Check it out.
Homeschool Trade Association
Please reach out if you have other questions, and we will try to help!