How do I start a sports card company like Topps and Upper Deck?

Question

I am a photographer, and graphic designer. I am an avid card collector and believe I can make a truly exquisite product. But where do I start? I know I need rights. But how? Any help is greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

What you need first is a business plan. Then you need investors, because starting up a company from scratch it going to cost a lot of money. Then you need to get the rights. Then you need to advertise your product (I recommend attempting viral marketing via the internet...it's a lot cheaper than traditional advertising). Then obviously you have to actually manufacture the cards, using your own unique artistic touch. Then you need to convince hobby shops and other stores to carry your product (unless of course you plan to sell them solely online).

Also, you should probably start with a single professional sport first, instead of going for all the big ones (NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB) at once.

Good luck!