Want to stop slaving away for someone else and start a business of your very own? There is huge potential in the green market. Environmentally conscious people from all walks of life are eager to get their hands on the latest earth-friendly trends. If you’ve got the drive, you should have no problem tapping into this market and helping to save our environmental resources in the process.

The first step is to create an idea that will sell. Think about the things that you and other people use everyday, or wish you could. How can you make them environmentally friendly? You might create a product that already exists, and make yours with recycled materials or use natural and organic supplies. Here are some ideas:

1. Retail products, such as food, clothing, toys, or cleaning products
2. Housekeeping services
3. Laundry or dry-cleaning
4. Solar energy installation

You may want some help in starting your business. Enlisting a partner or two will help you come up with ideas, and might make your business easier to fund. Make sure that your partner(s) hold the same ideals as yourself. After all, you need to be on the same page when it comes to saving the environment if you are going to make that a main focus.

If you're having a hard time finding a partner, try meeting other entrepreneurs who care about the environment on social networking sites such as Care2.com. Just be sure to get to know someone very well before going in to business with them!

Government grants are available for those starting eco-friendly businesses. Check out www.grants.gov for a detailed list of all available grants, as well as application information.

Remember, in order to receive a grant you will need a solid business plan. Figure out exactly what you are hoping to accomplish, and how you intend to achieve your goals and make your business successful. Any personal references or prior accomplishments will help you obtain your grant.

If you cannot get funding from the government, you can get funding the traditional way by applying for a bank loan. Start with your regular institution, where you currently hold a savings and/or checking account. As with grants, you will need a detailed outline of your plans, start-up costs, and expectations.

Once you get going, maintain an eco-friendly atmosphere in the work place. Here are some ways to “green” your office:

1. Use recycled paper and other materials
2. Get a printer that will use both sides of the paper
3. Instead of throwing away paper, save it for scratch
4. Have a recycle bin
5. Use green cleaning supplies, or hire a green cleaning service
6. Do not use disposable cups, plates and utensils
7. Only use as much light as you need
8. Install energy-efficient lighting
9. Make sure computers and other appliances are turned off at the end of the day
10. Use video conferencing when possible
11. Reward carpooling
12. Offer bus passes for employees