Have you ever thought about starting your own business? Many of us have considered it but needed the support to make our dream a reality. Barrio Alegría, a non-profit organization in Reading, connects with the city’s entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses with financial and moral support.
One of their community resources, microlending, has already assisted 14 local businesses by providing loans ranging from $1,500 to $5,000. One of these businesses, Snazzy Beauty Supply, received a loan to start her business. After two years, it grew tremendously, and the owner returned to the program for a second loan. This time, it was to hire a part-time worker.
Along with the loan, the program also holds regular meetings for networking and education on entrepreneurship. Each participating borrower is given a credit of $150 that can be used for training, conferences, and workshops to help them in developing their skills and businesses.
And remember, local artists also count as entrepreneurs. Throughout the year, Barrio hosts free events for the community to experience the creativity, passions, and talents within the City of Reading while providing local artists with opportunities to earn income from their passion.
Barrio Alegría — an organization that is known primarily for its art events — offers much more, such as financial literacy classes, leadership development, micro-loans, and a platform for community members to trade skills and request help from the community.
If you would like further information, please contact Ashley at:
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Barrio Alegria
140 N. 5th St
Reading, PA 19601
