Cynthia Shulman, founder and owner of Kil’n Time Studio in Ames, Iowa, has always had a passion for art and creativity. Five years ago Cynthia decided to turn this passion into a successful business, and with help from the ISU SBDC, she was able to make it a reality.

Kil’n Time Studio is a contemporary ceramic studio that offers a unique, inviting atmosphere to guests of all ages. Customers are free to come into the studio at their leisure and create a work of art, or host a special event/party at the studio. Beyond this Kil’n Time also offers many other products, such as glass fusion, mosaics, and clay hand building. The studio also offers special event nights like “Ladies Night Out”, where they invite a variety of guests into the store.

“In 2005 Cynthia first approached our office seeking basic assistance in turning her plans into a business”, says Helena Poist, a counselor at the ISU SBDC. Helena recommended that Cynthia attend the Center’s SmartStart workshop, to get the valuable knowledge of the basic steps necessary to write her business plan and obtain financing. Afterwards Cynthia stated, “The SmartStart Workshop was the best $10.00 I have ever spent!!” With the knowledge gained from the SmartStart workshop Cynthia was on a successful track. After spotting the perfect building, she and a business partner opened the studio in 2006 in a dream location…a cultural district on Main Street in Ames. With hard work and dedication things were going well for Kil’n Time Studio until the relationship with her business partner proved to be a challenge.

Cynthia knew it was time to buy out her partner and take full control of her business. She once again called on the SBDC for guidance and help in obtaining a loan to execute the buyout. The ISU SBDC was able to help Cynthia make a compelling and professional argument to the bank regarding the need for the buyout, and the ability of the business to handle the added debt. Cynthia then approached her bank; her banker stated, “Everything I need is here; this looks terrific!” Within a few short days, the bank happily loaned Cynthia the extra money she needed to buy out her business partner.

Cynthia has had full control of her business since September 2009. Despite a struggling economy she has been able to keep her successful business growing. She plans to add a few more programs and products to gain revenue, and even has hopes of expanding the business to a larger market in Des Moines. Cynthia exclaimed, “It would not have been as easy or even possible without the help of the ISU Small Business Development Center. The Ames SBDC helped save my business!!”

For more information on Kil’n Time Studio, please visit www.kilntime4fun.com.