Ignite Appalachia Alumni: Kim Baker
Kim Baker, a Columbus native, used to flowers out in her front yard as a hobby. The popularity of her flowers grew tremendously over the years and folks began to take notice. The local garden club even made her home a permanent stop on their flower tours.
With all the encouragement and praise in mind, Kim decided she wanted to start selling her flowers on the side. Kim and her husband decided that their current front yard flower beds wouldn't be enough and decided to purchase a 60 acre farm in Otway, Ohio. Last year, Kim (and her new business KB Flower Farm) decided to continue to expand on her entrepreneurial journey with the Ignite Appalachia Boot Camp.
Now, KB Flower Farm produces flowers throughout the spring and summer, with a large business expansion coming soon after the installation of a 100ft long green house on her farm in Otway. Kim has said that she contributes much of her success to the Ignite Program and the support of the ECDI Women’s Business Center of Central Appalachia at SSU. "Start learning now. Even if you don't have a full business plan or anything started yet, sign up for some classes, go to some workshops, sign up for Ignite, and start learning now,” says Kim.
Kim’s flowers can be purchased at a number of locations around the region, including: the Portsmouth Farmers Market, Wrights Farm Center, The Landing in Portsmouth, Align Massage, Pure Bliss Aesthetics and her Flower Stand located at 401 Oppy hill Rd, Otway OH. She also offers delivery to select locations. If you want to know more about Kim's story or have questions about her flowers, you can reach her at kimbaker421@aol.com.
Ignite Portsmouth is the catalyst for new business in our region. This 8-week entrepreneurship boot camp is perfect for individuals with a new idea, business, or with plans to expand and grow!
Participants will become equipped with the tools they need to succeed. They will learn about value proposition, the business model canvas, market analysis and customer validation, financial and revenue modeling, access to capital, marketing, branding, and business pitching. They will also be connected to mentors that will help them along the journey.