May 2026 – Ongoing
Project Overview
Midwest Recycling is a startup waste management and dumpster placement company operating under Fast Life Ventures LLC. The business provides dumpster delivery, placement, pickup, and disposal services for construction sites, renovation projects, property cleanouts, and other commercial and residential waste removal needs.
As part of the startup development process, I have assisted with business formation, strategic planning, branding, operational setup, compliance requirements, and business infrastructure development. My role focuses on helping establish a strong foundation for long-term growth while ensuring the business is positioned for future expansion.
Key Contributions
- Assisted with the establishment of Fast Life Ventures LLC and the Midwest Recycling DBA structure.
- Guided the business owner through Secretary of State filings, DBA notifications, federal EIN registration, and state tax registration requirements.
- Established business communication systems, including professional email setup and administrative processes.
- Assisted with market identification, customer segmentation, and service positioning within the construction and waste management industries.
- Drafted customer service agreements and operational contracts to support business operations.
- Developed branding concepts, including truck and trailer wrap graphics, business cards, promotional materials, apparel concepts, and brand positioning.
- Conducted research on minority-owned business grant opportunities and funding resources.
- Assisted with the evaluation of CRM software, accounting systems, and operational workflows to support future growth and scalability.
- Contributed to the development of a comprehensive business plan, including market analysis, operational planning, growth strategy, and financial considerations.
Challenges and Solutions
- Startup Infrastructure Development: Established foundational business systems, compliance requirements, communication channels, and operational procedures necessary for launch.
- Market Positioning: Identified target customer segments and service opportunities within the construction, renovation, and waste management industries.
- Growth Management: Focused on operational readiness and business infrastructure before implementing large-scale marketing initiatives to ensure sustainable growth.
Project Outcomes
- Successfully established the legal and operational framework for a new startup business.
- Developed a clear brand identity and business positioning strategy.
- Created foundational systems for customer management, communication, and future growth.
- Secured initial business operations and supported the servicing of an active commercial contract.
- Built a scalable framework to support future expansion, marketing efforts, and additional equipment acquisition.
Tools and Skills Used
- Business Development
- Startup Planning
- Strategic Marketing
- Brand Development
- Contract Development
- Grant Research
- Customer Segmentation
- Business Process Development
- CRM Evaluation
- Accounting System Planning
- Graphic Design and Brand Identity
- Project Management
Reflection
This ongoing project has provided valuable experience in startup development, strategic planning, business operations, and entrepreneurial consulting. Working through the early stages of business formation has reinforced the importance of establishing strong operational systems, clear market positioning, and scalable processes before pursuing aggressive growth initiatives. The experience continues to strengthen my skills in business development, strategic communications, project management, and organizational planning.
Rhonda Fitzgerald-Hunter 