The member was a long-time employee at a local produce market in Bonifay, Holmes County, Florida, where they worked for more than 20 years and built deep industry knowledge along with a long-held dream of owning their own market. When the member decided to pursue that goal, the primary barrier was access to startup capital for initial inventory. Despite a 20-plus-year relationship with their local credit union, the member was unable to secure financing because the institution did not offer a startup or microbusiness lending option.
After being referred to Innovations, the credit union provided a $15,000 microbusiness loan to fund the initial fresh produce inventory. The loan was structured with an affordable monthly payment and reasonable terms, allowing the member to launch the business without creating undue financial strain or jeopardizing household stability. In addition to access to capital, the member received ongoing education, coaching, and technical assistance from Innovations staff, who are Certified Credit Union Financial Counselors and HERO Certified Financial Counselors. This support focused on cash flow management, inventory planning, and sustainable pricing during the critical startup phase.
The business purchases 100 percent of its produce from local farmers, directly supporting the regional agricultural economy while expanding access to fresh food in a rural community. Although the business was initially planned as owner-operated, strong community demand exceeded expectations and resulted in the creation of two new jobs, increasing local employment and strengthening household income beyond the owner alone.
This microbusiness loan transformed a long-standing goal into a viable small business, creating jobs, supporting local farmers, and improving financial stability for multiple households in Holmes County.
