How can I find some sponsors?
Generally, when sponsors are interested, they will find you. Sponsors do not give you "free money," rather they create a business relationship where they defray a bowler's costs to bowl (travel, lodging, equipment, and tournament fees) in exchange for a percentage of winnings or to represent their business.
To increase the chances of gaining a sponsor's interest, always handle yourself in a professional manner on and off the lanes and always display good sportsmanship. You never know who might be watching.
Some bowlers have had success with selling "shares" in themselves in order to raise the necessary funds to compete.
CDE Software also offers several CD-ROMs of bowling clip art and photographs. You can also find lots of bowling graphics on the web. Just keep in mind that some sites are copyrighted and you should obtain permission before using "found" bowling graphics.
Your best recourse is to enlist the help of your Local Bowling Association or the National Offices of the ABC, WIBC, or YABA. However, the official ABC/WIBC/YABA rulebook can become your ally. Become familiar with the playing rules of your sanctioning body and your league.
If you are unable to correct the problem by speaking with a manager you may need to contact the owner in the case of an independent center. If you are dealing with a chain like Brunswick or AMF you should try to get in touch with a regional manager or their national offices.
If you are still unable to rectify the problem your best recourse is to enlist the help of your Local Bowling Association, the National Offices of the ABC, WIBC, or YABA, or the Better Business Bureau. Keep in mind that the USBC/ABC/WIBC have no jurisdiction over commercial aspects, but have a vital concern on how sanctioned leagues are conducted. If the problem warrants it you could also take your business elsewhere.
How much does it cost to open a bowling center?
Opening a small business is not a small undertaking. It takes a lot of time, dedication, and capital. Enough capital to merely buy or open a bowling center is not enough to survive since you will need working capital to operate your center in the beginning. Figure roughly $900,000 to $1,200,000 to just open or buy a small center. Then figure minimum of an additional $50,000 to $100,000 of working capital to support the business through the slow, startup phase or tough months.
Can you tell me where I can buy pinsetters and other equipment?
There are several companies that manufacture and sell bowling equipment. AMF and Brunswick offer pinsetting machines, scoring, seating, and center design. However, we highly recommend the Qubica Scoring System over the other platforms. Qubica now offers seating as well.
If you are a representative of a bowling center you should call the manufacture of your lane machine as they will have at least a couple dozen different conditioning programs that will work with your machine.
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