Graphic: Building the Economy, Impacting Lives
Home > Client Hall of Fame > Cartridge Depot

Cartridge Depot

Owensboro, KY

Owners:  Matt Lucas and Matt Payne
Center: Owensboro SBDC

Matt Lucas, a college student, decided he was ready to jump into business ownership.  He talked to his brother-in-law, Matt Payne, about a partnership and together the two started looking at different types of businesses that would prosper in Owensboro.  The two decided on opening Cartridge Depot, a franchise that specializes in refilling ink cartridges and laser toners.

Based on a recommendation from a family member, the two men approached Mickey Johnson at the Owensboro SBDC.  Johnson helped them identify financing options and assisted with the development of a business plan.

“I was 21 when I first contacted Mickey.  Through school I learned a few things, but real world application is really different.  Being as young as I was, there were a lot of questions. He helped me realize what would be expected of me as the business owner and how to make smart business decisions from the beginning,” Matt Lucas said.

The business opened August 2006 and hit the break even point its second month in business. They have grown steadily and are expanding into the Bowling Green market.  The two have met with Mickey Johnson to discuss their plans for expansion.

“This is a growing industry.  Almost everyone you come in contact with uses a printer - whether it’s ink or laser. Companies will look at any aspect of their business to save money and we are reducing their ink costs by about 50%,” Matt Lucas said.