This content was published: January 16, 2024. Phone numbers, email addresses, and other information may have changed.
Small Business Success Story: Haruharu Studio
Posted by PCC Small Business Development Center | Start the discussion
In the dynamic landscape of Portland’s business realm, one entity has emerged as a new leader of cultural expression and entrepreneurial dedication—Haruharu Studio, LLC. Founded by Jimin Kim in June 2022, Haruharu Studio goes beyond commerce; it is a manifestation of a deep desire to unravel the intricacies of Korean culture and share them with the world.
A Creative Odyssey Unfolds
Jimin Kim, a seasoned professional in the world of product design, took a courageous leap in 2021, bidding farewell to the confines of a 9 to 5 routine. The catalyst? A deep-seated longing to reconnect with family in Korea and explore the nuances of her homeland as an adult immersed in the design industry for two decades.
“I created Haruharu Studio LLC to give myself that opportunity to travel, to discover, and to meet Korean makers, designers, brands, artists, and craftsmen,” reveals Jimin. The studio’s mission is clear—to curate a collection that not only showcases Korean creativity, culture, and history but also serves as a communal space for Koreans and the culturally curious in Portland.
Navigating the Unknown with Help from the PCC SBDC
As an emerging entity, Jimin faced the uncertainty that often accompanies the start of a new small business. Her decision to seek guidance from the Portland Community College Small Business Development Center (PCC SBDC) was a pivotal one. Jimin enrolled in the Business Builders training program, laying the foundation for a transformative journey into business owner.
“In connecting with the SBDC, I felt like I knew what to expect as I began my business journey and had amazing help in connecting to the right people who were experts with great advice,” Jimin acknowledges.
Jimin also strategically collaborated with community partners, including APANO, Xcelerate, and the Korean American Coalition (KAC), enriching her journey and fostering deeper connections within Portland’s Asian and women-led business communities. This collaborative effort resulted in an outpouring of love and support for Jimin’s vision for Haruharu Studio, underscoring the significance of such an endeavor not only in Portland but across the global landscape.
Haruharu Studio, once a concept taking its first steps, has now evolved into a tangible reality. From a beautiful pop-up space located on Portland’s Eastside to an online shop, Jimin has navigated the entrepreneurial landscape with grace. Looking ahead to 2024, her aspiration is to secure a more permanent location with a longer lease—a testament to the studio’s sustained growth.
Cultivating Creativity with Support from the PCC SBDC
Jimin extends a resonant message to other small business owners contemplating collaboration with the PCC SBDC: “Being able to be connected to experts when you are lost with so many questions as a business owner beginner, please don’t be afraid to ask questions and to ask for advice when you need it. You are not alone.”
Haruharu Studio’s journey exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between passion, cultural exploration, and the invaluable support provided by the PCC SBDC and Portland’s larger economic development ecosystem. Jimin Kim’s narrative, from corporate designer to the proprietor of an emerging cultural hub, encapsulates the spirit of entrepreneurship. As Haruharu Studio continues to weave its narrative, it not only contributes to Portland’s diverse business landscape but also amplifies the global resonance of Korean creativity and craftsmanship.
Ready to Ignite Your Entrepreneurial Journey with the PCC SBDC?
Are you ready to embark on your entrepreneurial journey, or are you seeking support to take your small business to new heights? The PCC SBDC is here to help. Reach out to us, and let your journey begin. Jimin’s story is just one example of the countless success stories our clients have created. Embrace the joy of entrepreneurship and create your unique path to success!
Start the discussion
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