Parga adds deli department to grocery store in response to customer requests
Maria Parga recently received loan assistance from the Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) Microenterprise Loan Program for the expansion of her grocery and variety store, Video Lupita, in Worthington.
Video Lupita was one of the first Hispanic-focused businesses in Worthington when it opened as a video store in the early 1990s and quickly added a full line of Mexican groceries, gift items and wire transfer and travel services. In 2006, Parga added a meat department and the new addition of a deli comes at the request of customers. The deli will include a variety of food items but will specialize in burritos made f homemade tortillas filled with fresh meats, vegetables and toppings.
“Maria is always interested in meeting her customers’ requests,” said SWIF Microenterprise Program Officer Berny Berger. “She listens to them and serves their needs, which has lead to this expansion of her business. Maria is a true entrepreneur and an asset to the Worthington area.”
Loan proceeds were used for the purchase of electrical and plumbing fixtures, equipment installation and working capital. Parga also benefits from SWIF’s Diverse Business Assistance program which provides technical business assistance in Spanish and English.
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 that have a need for additional sources of funds. In addition, technical assistance is available from SWIF as needed for the length of the loan. The program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed more than $46 million through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped more than 450 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained more than 7,400 jobs. To learn more, visit www.swifoundation.org.
