Nordic Puddle Pirate will be established as a Not-For-Profit Business. This means that the profits after expenses go back into the business and mission rather than to shareholders. A not-for-profit business is still liable for taxes and has no special privileges.

For-profit businesses operate for the purposes of generating profits, which go back into the shareholders (owner, CEO, etc). They are your typical type company and offer products and services for the purpose of making money.

Not-for-profit businesses operate similarly to a for-profit, but the profits go back into the business and mission. They still pay taxes and work to create revenue, but not for the purpose of just money- rather they generate revenue to fund a mission or cause.

Non-profit organizations, on the other hand, are IRS tax exempt and depend heavily on donations and fundraisers, although some will have revenue generating endeavors. These are the organizations most people are familiar with when it comes to special interests.

Charters

Your support allows us to offer free charter trips for individuals with disabilities, veterans, youth groups and low-income families. These trips are slightly shorter than paid trips, but offer experiences that otherwise may not occur for those groups and individuals.

Retail

By working to establish a brick-and-mortar shop we can provide meaningful employment for those with disabilities. Fair pay, reasonable tasks and job coaching. This is just another way for us to impact on the lives of others while also offering honest and quality service.

Programs

One program that we will be working to start and promote is L2F (Learn to Fish), in which we will set up a place for donations of old, used and unwanted fishing gear can be restored. In addition to the donated items, NPP will also contribute to make a complete beginner tackle kit (box, rod/reel/lures, etc) and reference book with tips to help youth engage and begin fishing. NPP will also partner with other groups to promote their programs that offer options aligned with our mission.

Conservation

Periodically, NPP will put in time on the waterways to assist in invasive species and river clean ups. Additionally, NPP will also work with other groups, such as the USCG Auxiliary and DNR, to support and contribute to conservation efforts.

Education

Through partnerships and contributions by NPP, we will attend various events such as local festivals and sportsman shows to education the public about boater safety and environmental protection. Additionally, we will offer educational opportunities to learn more about vessel operations, seamanship and fishing tactics.

Once established, we will offer sponsorship opportunities that include promoting businesses, individuals and groups. This may include their company logo on our boat, website and marketing material, or helping to distribute their gear and services (such as marine maintenance, etc). By becoming a sponsor you are supporting the growth of NPP to help fund job opportunities for those with special needs, adventure tours for special interest groups, as well as the hosting of community and conservation-based events.

Additionally, through choosing NPP for your charter and gear needs, the profits generated help fund these projects as well. You can also like us on social media and tell others about NPP. Don’t forget to also keep an eye out for any events that we may be attending to learn more or ask questions. Lastly, feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

In the beginning, my goal is to operate this while working full time. As the business grows, we would look towards hire a combination manager/coach to oversee the business and guide those with special needs that are hired to handle the day-to-day tasks. The unique goal of having a small bait and tackle shop is that the complexity of daily tasks are not overwhelming but are rewarding. Some of the tasks that would be performed include stocking, inventory, cashier, cleaning and greeting of customers.

Now, I talked about hiring someone to run the business side of NPP. I will keep a vested and active interest, not just expecting someone to do it all. I mentioned this to be upfront that I do not intend to collect any pay at this time as my income would come from my full time job. I may look at a small income once I retire or if the need to step into NPP full time came about, but it would be a modest wage. My main goal is to see all of the profits go back into the business to fund the mission of Service, Community and Adventure.

As for services, outside of retail we will also offer ice fishing rental kits, kayak rentals, and fishing charter services. Participation in local tournaments would also occur, and you will even find us at different vendor events to showcase our mission, give additional work and fun opportunities for our employees to engage in, and build a network of customers and professionals looking to support our mission. Together we can promote the outdoors and its sustainability, while being rewarded with serving others.