Market Expansion – From Roadside Stall to Established Shop

Market Expansion – From Roadside Stall to Established Shop

Client: Ngozi, Fruit Seller at Igbo-Ukwu Junction
Challenge: Ngozi started with a small roadside fruit stall. Her business grew, but she had no space to stock more produce. Since she operated with cash only, it was difficult to save, keep records, or attract financial support.

Solution: Ngozi opened a Savings Account with Igbo-Ukwu Microfinance Bank and consistently deposited part of her daily earnings. After six months, she qualified for a micro-loan to rent a small shop and buy a refrigerator to preserve fruits.

Result:

  • Moved from a roadside stall into a shop in a busy part of town.
  • Increased sales by 80% due to better stock management.
  • Reduced waste of perishable fruits by 60%.

Impact: Ngozi’s shop is now a popular stop for fresh fruits, and she plans to expand into supplying local schools with fruit packs.

Youth Empowerment – Turning a Passion for Fashion into a Profitable Business

Client: Ifeanyi, Young Tailor and Fashion Designer
Challenge: After completing his apprenticeship, Ifeanyi struggled to set up his tailoring shop. He lacked sewing machines, shop rent, and startup capital. He almost gave up and considered migrating to a bigger city for casual labor.

Solution: Igbo-Ukwu Microfinance Bank enrolled him in a youth-focused loan scheme. With this support, he purchased two sewing machines and rented a small shop in Igbo-Ukwu town.

Result:

  • Grew his customer base, especially among students and young professionals.
  • Trained two apprentices who are also learning tailoring.
  • Within 18 months, he repaid his loan and applied for a bigger one to expand into ready-made clothing sales.

Impact: Ifeanyi transformed his passion into a profitable fashion business. Today, he is proof that with the right financial support, young people can create jobs instead of searching endlessly for them.

Supporting Women Entrepreneurs – Growing a Small Shop into a Mini-Supermarket

Client: Ada, Trader at Eke Market
Challenge: Ada ran a small provisions shop but faced challenges with poor record-keeping and lack of capital. She used her personal account for business transactions, making it hard to separate family expenses from business income. Suppliers often doubted her credibility.

Solution: Ada opened a Business Account at Igbo-Ukwu Microfinance Bank. This helped her keep track of business finances. She later accessed a micro-loan tailored for women entrepreneurs.

Result:

  • Expanded her shop into a mini-supermarket with more stock variety.
  • Gained the trust of suppliers who now extend goods to her on credit.
  • Increased monthly revenue by 60%.