Curiosity Cove: where wonder meets discovery
Tamara Miles
Div of. Skys legacy limited.
CURIOSITY COVE
_Executive Summary_
Curiosity Cove is an immersive science center with a Magic School Bus theme, located in Pigeon Lake, Alberta, Canada. We're seeking $2.5 million in funding to support the launch and growth of our first location, with projected annual revenues of $1.5 million in year one, growing to $3 million by year three, and $5 million by year five.
_Market Analysis_
Pigeon Lake is a popular tourist destination with limited educational attractions. Our target audience includes:
- Families with children aged 5-14
- Schools and educational groups
- Local residents and businesses
_Key Features_
- 10,000 sq. ft. facility with interactive exhibits, virtual reality experiences, and live programs
- Themed environments inspired by The Magic School Bus episodes
- Gift shop featuring science-themed toys and Magic School Bus merchandise
_Financial Projections_
- Start-up costs: $2.5 million (including facility lease, exhibit design, marketing, and staffing)
- Annual revenues:
- Year one: $2 million
- Year two: $2.5 million
- Year three: $3.5 million
- Year four: $5 million
- Year five: $ 6 million
- Annual expenses:
- Staffing and operations: $600,000 (year one), increasing by 10% annually
- Marketing and advertising: $150,000 (year one), increasing by 15% annually
- Exhibit maintenance and upgrades: $50,000 (year one), increasing by 10% annually
- Lease and utilities: $200,000 (year one), increasing by 5% annually
- Projected net profit:
- Year one: $500,000
- Year two: $800,000
- Year three: $1million
- Year four: $1.5 million
- Year five: $3 million
_Growth Potential_
- Expand to additional locations in Alberta and beyond
- Develop strategic partnerships with educational institutions and organizations
- Create online content and resources for schools and educators
- Host events and conferences, increasing revenue potential
- etc - more below at end.
_Funding Request_
We're seeking $2.5 million in funding to support the launch and growth of Curiosity Cove. This investment will be used to cover start-up costs, including facility lease, exhibit design, marketing, and staffing.
Buckle up and get ready for a wild ride! Inspired by the beloved Magic School Bus franchise, Curiosity Cove is an immersive educational attraction that takes children on a journey of discovery and exploration. Just like Ms. Frizzle's iconic bus, our 5,000 sq. ft. interactive center will transport kids aged 4-12 to new dimensions of learning, where science, technology, engineering, and math come alive through hands-on activities, workshops, and programs. Join us in igniting a love of learning and fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder in the next generation of scientists, thinkers, and explorers!
At Curiosity Cove, our mission is to inspire a love of learning and foster a sense of curiosity and wonder in children aged 4-12. Through immersive, interactive, and hands-on experiences, we aim to:
- Spark imagination and creativity
- Ignite a passion for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Build confidence and self-esteem
- Create a sense of community and connection among learners
By embracing the spirit of adventure and exploration embodied by the Magic School Bus franchise, we strive to make learning fun, accessible, and unforgettable for all.
Financial Projections
- Revenue:
- Year 1: $1,340,000 (Ticket sales: $1,000,000, Membership program: $150,000, Birthday party packages: $100,000, Workshops and camps: $50,000, Grants and sponsorships: $40,000)
- Year 2: $1,400,000 (5% growth rate)
- Year 3: $1,500,000 (7.1% growth rate)
- Net Income:
- Year 1: $740,000 (Revenue: $1,340,000, Expenses: $600,000)
- Year 2: $780,000 (Revenue: $1,400,000, Expenses: $620,000)
- Year 3: $850,000 (Revenue: $1,500,000, Expenses: $650,000)
- Expenses:
- Staffing: $200,000/year
- Marketing: $30,000/year
- Facility rental and utilities: $50,000/year
- Insurance and miscellaneous: $20,000/year
- Break-Even Analysis: Curiosity Cove will break even within the first 6 months of operation
Tourism Attraction:
Curiosity Cove is poised to become a leading tourist destination in the region, attracting visitors from across Alberta and beyond. By offering a unique blend of interactive science education and natural beauty, we will increase tourism to Pigeon Lake and benefit local businesses.
Projected Tourism Impact
- Increased tourism: 20,000 visitors in Year 1, growing to 30,000 by Year 3
- Economic impact: $1,000,000 in Year 1, growing to $1,500,000 by Year 3
- Job creation: 10 full-time jobs and 20 part-time jobs
_Marketing Strategy:_
- Targeted marketing campaigns to families, schools, and science enthusiasts
- Partnerships with local businesses, schools, and organizations to cross-promote Curiosity Cove and Pigeon Lake
- Strategic use of social media to build buzz and attract visitors
- Seasonal events, workshops, and programs to encourage repeat visits
, Curiosity Cove will become a must-visit destination for tourists and a hub of science education in the region.
*Business Outline:*
- Curiosity Cove is an interactive science center with a focus on hands-on learning and exploration.
- The center will feature themed rooms, birthday party packages, and event days.
- Target audience: children aged 4-12 and their families.
*Possible Size:*
- Initial location: 5,000 sq. ft. in Pigeon Lake, Alberta
- Expansion plans: 10,000 sq. ft. in Calgary, Alberta (Year 3), 15,000 sq. ft. in Edmonton, Alberta (Year 5)
- Potential for national expansion: Toronto, Ontario (Year 7), Vancouver, British Columbia (Year 10)
*Growth Projections:*
- Year 1: 20,000 visitors, $1,000,000 revenue
- Year 2: 30,000 visitors, $1,500,000 revenue (50% growth)
- Year 3: 40,000 visitors, $2,000,000 revenue (33% growth)
- Year 5: 60,000 visitors, $3,000,000 revenue (50% growth)
- Year 7: 80,000 visitors, $4,000,000 revenue (33% growth)
- Year 10: 100,000 visitors, $5,000,000 revenue (25% growth)
*Provincial Expansion:*
- Alberta: 2 locations (Pigeon Lake, Edmonton), 50,000 visitors, $2,500,000 revenue (Year 5)
- Ontario: 1 location (Toronto), 30,000 visitors, $1,500,000 revenue (Year 7)
- British Columbia: 1 location (Vancouver), 40,000 visitors, $2,000,000 revenue (Year 10)
Note: These projections are estimates and may vary based on market conditions, competition, and other factors.
Room Themes:
1. The Friz's Fantastic Voyage_: An interactive exhibit featuring the iconic Magic School Bus, where kids can explore the inside of the bus and learn about science and technology.
2. D.A.'s Dino Dig: A hands-on paleontology lab where kids can excavate dinosaur fossils and learn about prehistoric creatures.
3. Arnold's Amazing Ecosystems: An immersive environment where kids can learn about different ecosystems, conservation, and sustainability.
4. Ralphie's Rocketing Space Station_: A futuristic space-themed room where kids can learn about astronomy, space exploration, and the wonders of the universe.
5. Tim's Terrific Human Body: An interactive exhibit where kids can learn about the human body, health, and wellness.
Birthday Themes:
1. Ms. Frizzle's Field Trip_: A themed party featuring the Magic School Bus, with activities and games inspired by the franchise.
2. D.A.'s Prehistoric Party_: A dinosaur-themed party where kids can become paleontologists and excavate fossils.
3. Arnold's Eco-Adventure_: A party focused on environmentalism and conservation, with activities and games promoting sustainability.
4. Ralphie's Cosmic Quest_: A space-themed party where kids can become astronauts and explore the wonders of the universe.
5. Tim's Science Spectacular: A party where kids can conduct fun science experiments and become super scientists.
Event Days:
1. The Friz's Science Sundays_: A monthly event featuring guest scientists and experts leading workshops and activities.
2. D.A.'s Dino Day_: An annual event featuring dinosaur-themed activities, games, and exhibits.
3. Arnold's Earth Day Celebration_: An annual event promoting environmentalism and sustainability, with activities and games focused on eco-friendliness.
4. Ralphie's Stargazing Night_: A quarterly event featuring telescope viewing and astronomy activities.
5. Tim's Terrific Science Fair_: An annual event showcasing kids' science projects and experiments.
_Holiday Event Days:_
1. _Halloween: "The Friz's Frightful Field Trip"_: A spooky-themed event featuring costume contests, trick-or-treating, and a haunted bus ride.
2. _Christmas: "Ms. Frizzle's Winter Wonderland"_: A festive event featuring holiday crafts, cookie decorating, and a special visit from Santa on the Magic School Bus.
3. _New Year's Eve: "The Friz's Time-Traveling Bash"_: A countdown to midnight featuring time-travel-themed games, snacks, and a balloon drop.
4. _Valentine's Day: "Arnold's Amazing Heart Adventure"_: A heart-themed event featuring crafts, games, and a special Valentine's Day bus ride.
5. _St. Patrick's Day: "The Friz's Lucky Field Trip"_: A luck-themed event featuring scavenger hunts, Irish-themed snacks, and a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
6. _Easter: "D.A.'s Dino Egg Hunt"_: An egg-themed event featuring an egg hunt, dino-themed crafts, and a visit from the Easter Bunny on the Magic School Bus.
7. _Summer Solstice: "Ralphie's Rocketing Summer Blast"_: A space-themed event featuring rocket launches, planetary crafts, and a special summer solstice bus ride.
FUTURE OR NOW
Stay & Play Retreat*
Expand your Curiosity Cove experience with our Stay & Play Retreat! Choose from themed rooms and enjoy activities, meals, and relaxation tailored to each room's unique theme. Here are some examples of what's included in each room's Stay & Play package:
*Ms. Frizzle's Classroom*
- Room decor: Retro-themed classroom with science equipment and experiments
- Activities: Science experiments, "Frizzle's Favorites" scavenger hunt, "Wacky Science" trivia night
- Meals: "Test Tube" sliders, "Beaker" mac and cheese, "Frizzle's Fruit" salad
- Relaxation: "Teacher's Lounge" with coffee and snacks, "Science Journal" reflection time
*The Bus Depot*
- Room decor: Bus-themed room with bus seats and luggage racks
- Activities: Bus-themed crafts, "Bus Driver Says" game, "Route 66" road trip simulation
- Meals: "Bus Driver" burgers, "Route 66" ribs, "Pit Stop" snacks
- Relaxation: "Bus Driver's Lounge" with snacks and drinks, "Bus Depot" movie night
*The Science Lab*
- Room decor: Science lab-themed room with lab equipment and experiments
- Activities: Science experiments, "Lab Coat" challenge, "Molecular Gastronomy" cooking class
- Meals: "Molecular Muffins", "Eureka!" eggs, "Science Lab" salad
- Relaxation: "Lab Lounge" with coffee and snacks, "Science Journal" reflection time
*The Planetarium*
- Room decor: Space-themed room with starry night sky and space equipment
- Activities: Space-themed crafts, "Space Mission" simulation, "Stargazing" session
- Meals: "Galaxy Cupcakes", "Alien" meatballs, "Comet" olives
- Relaxation: "Space Station" lounge with snacks and drinks, "Galaxy" movie night
*The Dinosaur Dig*
- Room decor: Prehistoric-themed room with dinosaur fossils and artifacts
- Activities: Dino-themed crafts, "Dino Egg" hunt, "Fossil Frenzy" game
- Meals: "T-Rex" burgers, "Stegosaurus" veggie skewers, "Dino Mite" snacks
- Relaxation: "Dino Den" lounge with snacks and drinks, "Dino Movie" night
*Cafe:
The Curious Cup"*
- Menu:
- Specialty drinks: "The Frizzle" (a wacky coffee drink), "The Scientist" (a tea-based drink), "The Galaxy" (a fruit smoothie)
- Snacks: "Test Tube" cupcakes, "Beaker" cookies, "Dino-Mite" donuts
- Light meals: "Science-y" sandwiches, "Bus Depot" wraps, "Planetarium" salads
- Atmosphere:
- Science-themed decor, including beakers, test tubes, and lab equipment
- Comfortable seating areas for relaxation and conversation
- Fun science facts and trivia displayed throughout the cafe
*Gift Shop: "The Curiosity Cove Gift Cove"*
- Products:
- Science kits and toys, such as chemistry sets, crystal-growing kits, and bug catchers
- Magic School Bus merchandise, including books, DVDs, plush toys, and apparel
- Curiosity Cove branded items, such as t-shirts, water bottles, tote bags, and mugs
- Educational resources and materials, such as science textbooks, workbooks, and activity sheets
- Unique gifts and souvenirs, such as dinosaur fossils, space-themed items, and science-themed jewelry
- Displays:
- Themed sections for different areas of science (e.g. physics, biology, chemistry)
- Interactive displays and demonstrations, such as a volcano or a tornado in a bottle
- Fun science facts and trivia displayed throughout the shop
*Special Features:*
- "The Curious Cup" cafe and "The Curiosity Cove Gift Cove" gift shop can be combined into a single space, with the cafe area serving as a seating area for customers to relax and enjoy their purchases.
- The gift shop can offer a "Science of the Month" subscription service, where customers receive a new science kit or toy every month.
- The cafe can offer a "Coffee and a Question" program, where customers can ask a science question and receive a free drink or snack.
To further enhance the educational and entertaining experience at Curiosity Cove, we could add an aquarium and exhibits featuring animals that are in and around the area, as well as bugs to learn about local wildlife. This addition would:
- Provide hands-on learning opportunities for guests to explore and discover local species
- Foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the natural world
- Offer a unique and engaging experience that sets us apart from other attractions
- Support our mission to inspire curiosity and exploration in our guests
Future expansions could include:
- A butterfly garden and insectarium
- A outdoor learning center with nature trails and bird-watching stations
- A partnership with local conservation organizations to offer hands-on wildlife conservation activities
- A interactive exhibit on local ecosystems and habitats
- A "Creature of the Month" program featuring in-depth learning about a specific local species"
CLUBS
_Spring:_
1. Pollinator Protectors Club: Plant bee-friendly gardens and learn about pollinators.
2. Nature Artisans Club: Create art using natural materials like flowers, branches, and rocks.
3. Eco-Warriors Club: Participate in local clean-ups and environmental initiatives.
_Summer:_
1. Aqua Explorers Club: Explore local waterways and learn about aquatic life.
2. Bug Brigade Club: Learn about and catch different insect species.
3. Outdoor Odyssey Club: Go on hikes and learn about local ecosystems.
_Fall:_
1. Harvest Helpers Club: Assist with harvesting fruits and vegetables at a local farm.
2. Leaf Legacy Club: Learn about and identify different types of leaves.
3. Nature Nomads Club: Explore local parks and nature reserves.
_Winter:_
1. Snow Science Club: Study and learn about snowflakes, ice, and winter weather.
2. Winter Wildlife Watchers Club: Learn about and spot winter animal species.
3. Cozy Crafters Club: Create warm and cozy crafts like knitting, sewing, and woodworking.
These clubs focus on hands-on activities, exploration, and learning, and can be adapted to fit different age groups and interests.
In conclusion, Curiosity Cove is an innovative and immersive science center that combines interactive exhibits, themed rooms, and special events to create an unforgettable experience for kids and families. By leveraging the beloved Magic School Bus franchise, we will inspire a love of learning, foster curiosity, and make science accessible to all. Join us on this exciting journey and get ready to "Take a seat, buckle up, and get ready for a wild ride!"
"Spark Curiosity. Ignite Learning. Inspire Wonder."
- Tamara Miles