One big challenge is finding an untapped niche.<br /><br />Question: What are the challenges to starting a new business? <br /> <br />Carrie Schwab: I would say starting business is not necessarily my spatiality, but I think the biggest thing is finding a niche, finding a need for people, that is difficult and very-very important to being successful. <br />Funding is another big issue; finding people to invest in your company or your product. <br />I do know, from statistics, that women do have a harder time getting investment dollars; so that is a challenge as well. <br />Another key is surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you. That is a key to success and something that we apply at Schwab. <br /> <br />Recorded on: March 27, 2008<br /><br />Question: What are the challenges to starting a new business? <br /> <br />Carrie Schwab: I would say starting business is not necessarily my spatiality, but I think the biggest thing is finding a niche, finding a need for people, that is difficult and very-very important to being successful. <br />Funding is another big issue; finding people to invest in your company or your product. <br />I do know, from statistics, that women do have a harder time getting investment dollars; so that is a challenge as well. <br />Another key is surrounding yourself with people who are smarter than you. That is a key to success and something that we apply at Schwab. <br /> <br />Recorded on: March 27, 2008