Krista Buckel
Krista.Buckel@cvky.org
859-231-0054 x1034
1450 North Broadway
Lexington, KY 40505
In 2022, the owner of Hummingbird Studios LLC., Kimberly Bussell, faced a challenge that many small business owners would envy—too much business. As Christmas loomed and holiday orders rolled in, her laser-cutting machine gave up the ghost. Determined not to disappoint her customers, Bussell took on the expense of renting a machine to deliver her “Inspired by Nature” wood and leather jewelry and products in time for Christmas.
After surviving the Christmas craze, Bussell knew it was time to upgrade her equipment. As the owner of a newly formed LLC without established credit, she expected it to be tough to secure a loan for a new machine and turned to Community Ventures (CV) to explore funding options.
She found exactly what she needed when she spoke with Mark Johnson, President of Art Inc. Kentucky, an art incubator supported by CV. Mark introduced Bussell to the Artist Loan Fund, which helps creatives secure financing to grow their businesses. The fund is supported by Community Ventures, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Women’s Business Center of Kentucky.
“This loan product was created specifically for artists and creatives and designed to help them turn their passion into a sustainable income,” said Mark Johnson, president of Art Inc. “Hummingbird Studio is the perfect example of a successful arts-based endeavor that just needs a little financial support to grow to the next level, and we are honored to be a part of that process.”
With an Artist Fund loan, Bussell purchased a large laser cutter and water chiller and modified the flooring and electricity in her home workspace to support the 600-pound machine.
“I wanted to take my business to the next level, and the loan with CV helped me purchase this new machine, so I have the ability to offer customized products and fill wholesale orders,” said Kimberly Bussell, owner of Hummingbird Studios. “I’m thankful to Community Ventures and Mark for making the loan application process simple and easy and enabling me to grow my business.”
To learn more about Hummingbird Studio, click here.
Administered by Art Inc. Kentucky, the Artist Loan Fund may be used for working capital, purchasing supplies, materials, accessories, and equipment, marketing at art fairs, and covering art show fees. For more information or to apply, contact Mark Johnson at mjohnson@ArtIncKentucky.org or call 859-231-0054, ext. 1023. To learn more about Art Inc. Kentucky, supported by Community Ventures, click here.
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About Art Inc. Kentucky: Art Inc. Kentucky, supported by Community Ventures, is a non-profit, member-focused business and marketing incubator for artists and creatives. Art Inc. provides emerging and established artists with the services, resources, and educational opportunities needed to broaden their exposure, increase their income, and build long-term sustainable businesses.