I have been exploring the feasibility of opening a community bike shop in my small-ish Northeast city. It looks like there's some opportunity here. As I search for start-up funding I want to be able to confidently tell funders that we'll become self-sustaining in a reasonable amount of time. My most promising lead likes to let go of the leash in 24 months. I'm anticipating most revenue to come from the sale of repurposed bikes out of the storefront, with some other special events, fundraisers, donations and memberships.

What can you tell me about your experience? Is this realistic?

Thanks,
Matt