en·tre·pre·neur änn-trə-p(r)ə-'nər\noun
1. One who manages and assumes the risks of a business 2. Renewing a love for science in childen
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By Jill Abrahamsen
ber-smart, passionate, humble, and caring are qualities that
are hard to find wrapped up in the same package, but the combination perfectly describes entrepreneur Cinttya Morgan. Founder of Little Beakers Science Lab for Kids, Morgan developed an innotive business concept that gets kids excited about science. “I knew I wanted to be a scientist since I was little. My mom gave me a chemistry set when I was nine years old and I was sold,” she says. As a highly-regarded research chemist with a Masters in chemical engineering and materials science, Morgan developed several patents in the polymer and aerospace industries. She loved her work, but knowing how science is taught, she became concerned for the future of her field. “Kids learn by doing, not by memorizing facts from text books,” she says. “There needs to be more fun to spark excitement in science. Hands-on learning is the way to go.” Morgan created something that could include as many kids as possible by making the services affordable and accessible. Little Beaker’s “open lab” is a walk-in service with no appointment necessary. Children and caregivers can explore the lab, choosing experiments from the “Little Beakers Procedures Book.” Kids have fun creating and testing polymers, volcano-like reactions, the physical effects of rockets and tornadoes, and explosions. 34
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Pricing is about $12 per hour. Memberships are also available. There are many revenue streams for franchisees including classes, camps, and special events, like birthday parties, parents’ nights out, along with group events like field trips. Morgan is quick to point out that this business is not about performing goofy science shows. “This is a hands-on science lab where everyone joins in the fun of creating and learning.” A 3,000- to 4,500-square-foot space is needed to house Little Beakers, but the location doesn’t have to be prime retail. “Sometimes schools will bring in groups of 150 kids, so we need a big space. Business parks are perfect,” Morgan says. Morgan would like to partner with people who are passionate about kids, learning, and science, although no specific scientific background is necessary. Morgan loves what she created and is so excited for the future. “Kids are inspired. They get to do everything themselves and get messy. What’s nice for parents is we clean up the mess.” For more information, email info@franchisefoundry.com or visit www.littlebeakers.com
