Preparing the Next Gen for Wealth
NextGen Wealth
Founder: Clint Haynes | Lee’s Summit, MO | Microenterprise
We’re excited to introduce you to NextGen Wealth, possibly one of the youngest businesses in our Entrepreneurs in Action gallery. Founded in 2014 (with help from Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce, one of our 230+ Resource Partners), NextGen Wealth helps Gen X and Y in their search of financial freedom through financial planning and investment management.
NextGen Wealth found that Gen X and Y are overlooked and underappreciated by many financialfirms out there today. And while they may not have hundreds of thousands of dollars in assets (yet), they are on their way, conscientious about investing in the future and in need of the financial planning expertise to help them reach their goals sooner.
We cornered founder Clint Haynes to get his input and insight into starting a business in Kansas City. Here’s what he shared.
FUNDING
How easy was it for you to find funding (to start or grow)?
Startup for a Registered Investment Advisor Firm (RIA) is in the range of the 5-10K (depending on the bells and whistles) and it was all self-funded.
MENTORING
How easy was it for you to find informal or formal mentors or advisors?
It’s not exactly the easiest thing to do in this industry because of competition, but I hope to change that by paying it forward. I had a few people I could bounce ideas off of, but no one I’d necessarily call a mentor.
How often do you mentor/advise up-and-comers?
I try to as much as possible. This is a difficult industry to get started in. It’s difficult to acquire/attract clients and we’re still looked at as very “salesy.” However, anyone wanting to get into the industry or just starting out, I try to help as much as possible. I know how difficult it was for me (and still is) and would have been very grateful if someone took the time to give me some direction.
RESOURCES
What program or events helped you start or grow your company?
The Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce was/is a huge help. They have so many different programs to help entrepreneurs get their business off the ground, I can’t thank them enough. On top of that, the people are amazing and the networking opportunities are phenomenal. I am very grateful for the Chamber.
ECOSYSTEM
How would you rate KC's business scene?
From what I understand of it, I would rate it very highly. The number of accelerator groups, chambers, KCSourceLink, etc., that are focused on helping entrepreneurs is amazing.
In the past year or so, what do you feel has put KC on the map?
The event that really stands out to me was the Unconference. I learned so much from the various breakouts and met so many wonderful people that I hope to stay in contact with for years to come. It was such a unique conference and an experience I hope to build upon every year.
Connect with Clint and NextGen Wealth: