New Litchfield business benefits from Microenterprise Loan Program
Angela Stump recently received loan assistance from the Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) Microenterprise Loan Program for the start up of her designer inspired bags and accessories shop, VuSarri, in Litchfield. VuSarri roughly translated means “Seen Often” and exemplifies Stump’s vision for her business as a destination shopping experience that people will anticipate coming to for monthly sales.
The business is located inside the Green Hill Resale Shoppe at 959 E. Frontage Road on east Highway 12, and will be open three days each month. The next sale will be December 9 ‐11, with hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There will also be a special date added for Christmas shopping Saturday, Dec. 18.
VuSarri will feature handbags, laptop bags, diaper bags, specialty luggage, jewelry, scarves, sunglasses, and shabby chic furniture. Angela will also be doing trunk shows in various locations and selling online at www.vusarri.com . Monthly sale hours will be announced in advance through the local newspapers, e‐mail newsletters, Facebook and occasional signs around town. Sign up for email invitations at [email protected] or [email protected]. Stump can be reached at (320) 535‐7212.
“Angela did a fine job of planning and marketing for her business, which will attract area shoppers to the community,” said SWIF Microenterprise Program Coordinator.
Proceeds from the loan were used to purchase inventory, and provide working capital for the start up of the business. SWIF’s Microenterprise Loan Program offers loans of up to $35,000 for starting or expanding for‐profit small businesses located within the 18 counties of southwest Minnesota. This program also now serves Wright, Carver and southern Stearns counties.
In addition to financing, SWIF provides free technical assistance to all clients who have received a loan through the Microenterprise Program for the life of the loan. SWIF staff and business consultants provide one‐to‐one business planning, accounting, marketing and other training opportunities that will help entrepreneurs succeed in their venture. SWIF’s Microenterprise Loan Program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture.
