Jim Grant | If It Isn't Fun, Don't Do It: Building Sailrite From Scratch

Jim Grant's remarkable journey from political scientist to sailing entrepreneur unfolds as a testament to curiosity, resilience, and the power of pursuing passion. As the founder of Sailrite, Jim transformed a simple solution to a personal problem—needing better sails for a competition—into a thriving family business that spans three generations.

Growing up on Crooked Lake in Indiana, Jim developed an early affinity for boating and entrepreneurship, fixing outboard motors with his brother as teenagers. His path took unexpected turns, from being among the first American students to study abroad globally in the 1950s (where he encountered figures like Eleanor Roosevelt and the Pope) to teaching political philosophy at the university level.

The genesis of Sailrite came when Jim, unable to get professional sails made in time for a national sailing competition, crafted his own—and placed third. This success led to writing instructional articles and manuals on sail construction, which evolved into a business providing materials and guidance for DIY enthusiasts. What began with sail kits expanded to "make your own canvas" projects, supported by durable sewing machines designed to last, unlike the disposable alternatives flooding the market.

Jim's entrepreneurial spirit shines through in stories of running the business from an unheated barn in Indiana, starting a printing operation to produce manuals and catalogs, and continuously adapting to changing circumstances. Throughout it all, his philosophy remained consistent: "If it isn't fun, don't do it. Take a hobby and make it a life."

Now a multi-million dollar enterprise led by the next generation, Sailrite continues to empower people to create with their hands. Jim's advice to aspiring entrepreneurs? "Don't be discouraged by failure. Failure is a way to learn." His story reminds us that with persistence, adaptability, and genuine passion, we can build something meaningful that transcends our own time—turning what we love into a lasting legacy.

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