Borrower Profile: Marta Sylvia Mendoza

Borrower of Cooperativa Banco San Antonio, Nueva Guinea

Marta and her family run a small store in the market in Nueva Guinea, a town located in the Autonomous Region of the South Atlantic region of Nicaragua. They sell a variety of items, including fresh fruits and vegetables, packaged foods, snacks, condiments, convenience items and housewares.

Marta began working in the store nine years ago with her mother-in-law, and now bears the chief responsibilities of management. Her husband and their four children, as well as members of her extended family, work to keep the business successful. Marta began taking loans from Banco San Antonio several years ago to expand her inventory.

In conversing with her, Marta reveals a kind and dedicated personality. It is clear to see she is also a talented businessperson. She admits that in the beginning she was hesitant to borrow. However, she became convinced that financing was a valuable tool after taking her first loan. She humbly relates the progress of her business' development and shares her goals for the future with quiet confidence. She also notes that quality of life for her family has improved. Her children are all attending school, including her eldest who is studying to become a veterinarian at a local university.

Marta prefers Banco San Antonio to other possible credit sources. She explains that the terms are the most favorable and she looks forward to continuing to access financing to succeed in her expansion plans.