Page 9 - EIF_CIP case studies

Almaz always had a real hunger for business and is now literally managing his own “Happy Foods“ business. Almaz’ story began with a micro-credit worth EUR 20,000 in 2009, which has since helped him to provide healthy-eating canteen facilities to schools.

Almaz had been knocking on closed doors for almost six months looking for fnance but he found that banks were reluctant to lend to small businesses — especially start-ups. Then he was introduced to First-Step Microfnance.

Almaz hopes to make full use of government policy to provide healthy eating in schools. He is setting up a team to help him move into more educational institutions and create additional jobs for the catering sector.

Local deputy Mary Wallace T.D. (Member of Parliament) for the area was impressed with the new initiative: “Since the frst day that it opened, Happy Foods has enjoyed huge success and great support from students and parents. Healthy lunches provided in the school are tasty and attractive to teenagers whilst at the same time maintaining a healthy food content. Teachers will say that this makes a signifcant difference to the teaching environment in the afternoon.”

Company: Happy Foods, Dublin Type of business: Food supplier EU-guaranteed loan from First-Step: EUR 20,000

IRELAND

First step towards healthy eating

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