Like many other young entrepreneurs, Summerland resident Andrew Verge’s dream of running a successful small business hasn’t come without its challenges.
The owner/operator of Spud Brothers Food Services saw a chance to cash in on the mobile food trend, but a lack of funds kept him from getting any traction. That’s when he turned to a micro-loan program through Valley First, whose financial support helped get his business back on-track.
Verge was a local applicant to the loan program. Designed to help create financing opportunities for young entrepreneurs, loans can range from a few hundred dollars to $5,000. Verge says he was thankful for the financial assistance, but was more grateful for the opportunity to help shape the future of his business and make a real difference in his community.
“I have always liked the idea of doing something that no one else was doing, delivering food right there to the customer, at the beach, at the park, or at the arena,” said Verge. “Now I can stay ahead of the trend, change the look of my business and market it better to ensure customers are getting the best food and the best service possible. The micro-loan program, through Valley First, has provided the opportunity to do that.”
“If I hadn’t gone to Valley First and received the micro-loan, it would be tough for me to carry on, and I probably wouldn’t still be in business today,” said Verge. “Certainly the fact that this program exists speaks volumes about values of the credit union.”
