1. Define the concept and budget on paper

By the next 60–90 days, aim to have:

• A 2–3 page Concept Note (mini business plan) that includes:
  • Mission: elite sport-focused equestrian academy (dressage + Working Equitation), not therapy.
  • Who you serve: age range, target markets (US/Canada riders, owners sending horses, career-track students).
  • Why now: gap post–Meredith Manor closure + your alumni network and WE champions.
  • Rough Phase 1 budget and timeline (e.g., $500K land + $600K buildout, 3–5 year ramp).
• A simple 3–5 year budget spreadsheet:
  • Year 1–3: small cohorts (maybe 4–6 full-time equivalents), clinic income, boarding/training revenue.
  • Core expense buckets: staff, horses, feed, insurance, facility buildout, admin.