David Aguilar
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Josh Hirahara is an entrepreneur and is hoping his start-up idea takes off. He is currently working on creating two businesses while completing his degree in industrial technology.
Prints-to-Book is one of his ideas. He wants to create a Red Box-model bookstore by creating a machine that would print any book right in front of you. But starting a business comes with some challenges, and Hirahara admits he does not know everything.
Hirahara says he doesn’t know anything about the legal background of creating a business, and sought out help on campus.
He turned to the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship’s Hatchery program that provides weekly workshops on different entrepreneurial topics as well as opportunities for mentorships.
“We are not only here to start business,” said Jake Disraeli, the innovation coordinator at the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. “We’re here to teach a mindset, and it’s an entrepreneurial mindset.”
Along with those resources, which are available to any Cal Poly student, there is a dedicated room that is open to members of the Hatchery program 24 hours a day.
“One of the greatest advantages of working in a space like this is the collaborative environment,” said Disraeli.
“It’s great to bounce ideas off each other,” Hirahara said, “and kind of get reassurance when we are thinking of heading in a certain direction.”
With the extra support, Hirahara has big dreams for Prints-to-Book.
“I would want to see it change the publishing industry,” Hirahara said. “Cut out a lot of the waste, let people get books more efficiently.”