SBC Profile

JOE RICHTER, a veteran of the CE industry, founded 3D Inc. to help new technology companies enter the CE marketplace. A former CEA board member, he served on both the Executive Committee and as chair of the Audio Division.

His CE career began with a sales job with Wards Co. Considered a semi-expert because he owned a component system he had purchased during an overseas tour of duty, he loved selling audio equipment. He joined Kenwood in 1981, where he went on to become the first American president of Kenwood USA. He attributes his success to his mentor, Bill Kasuga, one of the founders of Kenwood, and a member of the CE Hall of Fame.

Richter's business mission is to create opportunities for CE companies to prosper. While not a manufacturer, 3D has a global presence. One of Richter's early successes was partnering with an Israeli firm to help launch domestic start-up technology companies.

Transitioning from a large staff of professionals and resources to a solo practice has been an adjustment, as has been building the 3D brand from scratch. He says CEA's Small Business Council (SBC) is an invaluable tool as he continues to tackle the challenges of running a small company. "I'm looking to learn from my peers how they went about building their business," he says. V