For Ron and Cristine Kern, owners of Prism Specialty Restoration, helping people put their lives back together after disaster strikes is personal. So, when Ron found himself evaluating a number of franchise options after a long career at Pratt & Whitney came to an end, a company then-called Electronic Restoration Services (ERS) stood out. Having been through the process themselves, they thought restoring electronics after a water or fire event was not only something they could do, but something they could do better than some of the companies they had dealt with.
That was back in 2013, and before the Kerns signed a contract, they reached out to Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC), housed at the UConn School of Business. Business advisor Shelly Koehler was immediately able to find ways to help, and that relationship has remained integral to the business’ success for the past 13 years.
The Kerns were prepared to withdraw use their 401K savings to buy the business, but Koehler recognized that could have tax implications. Instead, Koehler suggested a Rollover as Business Startup (ROBS), a financing arrangement which allows entrepreneurs to invest eligible retirement funds into a new business without paying taxes or penalties.
As the business grew, the Kerns purchased new parts of the franchise, allowing them to move into art restoration, textile restoration, and more. Today, Prism can repair everything from your waterlogged computers to your soot covered art, smoky clothing and furniture to your moldy photo album. Have an antique American flag with only 48 stars on it that was damaged by smoke in a fire? They can help with that, too. As they expanded their services, moved out of their original location, and grew their team, Koehler continued to be a valued part of the Prism team.
“She gives us guidance, not instruction,” says Ron.
“She’s become a friend to us,” adds Cristine.
Hiring hurdles
Over the years, like many small business owners, Prism learned how hard hiring reliable, qualified employees can be. As they looked to expand by hiring a marketer and growing their fleet—from one box truck to two trucks, a van, and a small car—they turned again to CTSBDC for guidance.
Koehler helped with business projections that were critical to applying for loans and credit and were also useful when using State of Connecticut programs designed for workforce development. “Shelly helped us dramatically,” says Ron.
“She saved us,” adds Cristine, talking about Koehler’s outreach and assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. With their advisor’s help, over the years, Prism was able to take advantage of State programs, including hiring through the Subsidized Training and Employment Program (STEP UP) which started by paying 100% of a new hire’s salary, gradually decreasing the amount they pay for the first six months of the employment. This allows small businesses to take on the task of hiring and training a new employee without taking on financial risk.
The Kerns have also found it helpful to be a part of a franchise network. When big commercial jobs come in, they often need to rapidly increase their workforce temporarily. The parent company can provide temporary staff when those lucrative, but labor-intensive, jobs are available.
Investing and growing at Prism Specialty Restoration
Many of the State workforce development and loan programs have changed over the past 13 years, as has Prism. Finding the right funding at the right time has been integral to the company’s success. As Ron Kern says, “Insurance companies always pay, but sometimes it takes a while.” So, after 13 years in business, Prism Specialty Restoration has received a number of grants and loans to help grow the business and with cash flow issues—starting in 2019 with a loan from the Department of Community and Economic Development (DECD), followed by a DECD grant and a line of credit.
Then in 2024, a new opportunity arose: the chance to buy the Hartford building Prism calls home. Koehler recommended several lenders, and after investigating them, the Kerns secured a loan from Live Oak Bank.
More recently, as cash flow slowed, Prism applied for and received another line of credit from Liberty Bank. Today, Prism Specialty Restoration is stronger than ever, with more than $1.3 million in annual revenue, and a growing team, including two new part-time art restorers. Throughout every stage of their journey—from financing their franchise and navigating hiring challenges to securing capital—the Kerns have relied on CTSBDC as a trusted resource.
Looking back on more than a decade of partnership, Ron and Cristine credit much of their success to having the right guidance at the right time. As they continue helping families recover from unexpected disasters, Prism serves as an example of how expert advising, strategic financing, and determination can help small businesses not only survive but thrive.
