Successful Business Started With Help From Orillia CDC

Back in 1999, as a single mother of three, Lynn Johnston decided that she would purchase an eyewear business from one of her former employers.  She approached her bank for financing but was told that she did not fit their criteria at that time.  Fortunately, her bank manager referred her to the Orillia Area Community Development Corp. (CDC), and this is where the story of her business began.

After making an application for financing,she was approved for her first loan to go into business for herself.  She became the proud owner of Orillia Eyewear.

Johnston, whose loan has now been paid off, is grateful for the support she has received from the CDC through the years.

"I needed someone to believe in me and the CDC did just that," she said with a big smile.

Her business today, Orillia Eyewear is flourishing.  Her store, which is located on Monarch Drive, offers many products and services, a warm atmosphere and friendly customer service.  The business has grown to include the services of an optometrist operating in the same location and they now have the capacity to cut all their lenses on-site which cuts down on wait times for eyewear.

"This is truly a great success story for our community -somehing worth celebrating," said Wendy Timpano,general manger of the CDC.

While this is an example where initially the bank was unable to assist, there are also many instances where the CDC will work closely with the bank to support the goals of the business owner.

"We welcome the opportunity to work with our local banking institutions. Quite often, in fact, the banks are part of the process."

The CDC's mission is to support the development of sustainable communities through community economic development and small business activities.  Loans of up to $150,000 are available to assist local businesses, who qualify, with start-up or expansion costs.

For more information about applying for a loan with the CDC or any one of the programs or initiatives the CDC is involved with, call 705-325-4903 or visit www.orilliacdc.com

| More...