Carla Scholz has always been a creative force. With over 25 years of experience as a graphic designer and art director, she made a bold decision to shift her focus from her successful career to launch Soak iT Up—an eco-friendly business that blends her design expertise with a passion for sustainability. After facing burnout and exploring the potential of startups, Carla channeled her creative energy into producing vibrant, environmentally conscious products, transforming her vision into a thriving venture.
In 2017, inspired by a friend’s suggestion, Carla saw an opportunity to create something practical, eco-friendly, and fun. This led to the birth of Soak iT Up, a company specializing in Swedish sponge cloths that can replace up to 1,500 paper towels. Made from compostable cotton and cellulose, these cheerful cloths not only reduce waste but also add a touch of joy to everyday chores. But Carla’s innovation didn’t stop with sponge cloths. She further developed Clards®—a patented product that combines the sentiment of a greeting card with the practicality of a reusable cleaning cloth. Clards offer a unique, eco-friendly alternative to traditional greeting cards, making them a gift that keeps on giving.
As Soak iT Up grew, Carla recognized the need for support in managing the financial aspects of her business. After learning about WomenVenture’s Accelerating Success program through an email and a friend’s recommendation, she registered for the course as she had her eye on scaling her business. The course not only emphasized the importance of closely managing finances but also helped Carla shift her mindset to embrace money management. With newfound appreciation for tools like QuickBooks and the support of a mentor who had a passion for financial management, Carla was able to stay on top of her business’s finances. This freed her to focus on what she does best, creating and innovating.
Carla’s entrepreneurial journey was not without challenges. She faced numerous hurdles, from finding local printers to navigating the complexities of patents. However, her determination and passion for sustainability kept her moving forward. Discovering WomenVenture’s Accelerating Success course was a turning point. “The course emphasized the importance of keeping a close eye on my finances, which is something I still work hard at every day,” Carla recalls. “Shifting my mindset to embrace the financial aspect of my business was crucial, and WomenVenture helped me with that.”
WomenVenture’s curriculum and community were instrumental in Carla’s success. The course provided the structure she needed to refine her business strategies, particularly in areas where she felt less confident. “There are a lot of times as an entrepreneur when you know you should be doing things but need the structure to do them. WomenVenture provided that structure,” she explains.
Today, Soak iT Up continues to thrive, offering a range of eco-conscious products designed in the United States and manufactured both locally and in Sweden. Carla’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of her business, from the minimal ink and materials used in her products to the eco-friendly packaging. With hundreds of uses and the ability to be washed over 200 times, Soak iT Up products are a testament to Carla’s dedication to quality and environmental stewardship.
Carla’s journey with Soak iT Up is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with perseverance, creativity, and the right support system. WomenVenture is proud to have been a part of her success story, supporting her to continue to have a thriving, eco-conscious business that brings joy to everyday life while promoting sustainable living.
Ready to make your cleaning routine more sustainable? Visit Soak iT Up today and use the discount code “UNITY” for 30% off your first order! Join Carla in her mission to create a cleaner, greener world. And if you’re a woman entrepreneur seeking support, reach out to WomenVenture to discover how we can help you achieve your dreams!
Author: Kiara Hollie-Sessions, WomenVenture Marketing Specialist
