Syed Naqvi was already undergoing challenges from the pandemic when he needed to replace his store’s interior light bulbs and set up a security system in 2020. He felt the condition of his store Penny Profit was affecting his first impression with new customers, and bringing doubt to current ones.
At the time he couldn’t afford these upgrades himself, so he reached out to Community Futures Entre-Corp to apply for the Medicine Hat Business Innovation Grant (MHBIG). After being approved and finalizing the grant process, his store became bright and inviting with new light bulbs and a newly-installed security system.
“After being able to access what we needed, it already feels more welcoming for our customers, which has always been a priority for us since the beginning,” says Naqvi. “When I called about the grant, I spoke with Pat and she helped immensely in getting the process going. It felt really wonderful to know the support was there for small business owners.”
Penny Profit is a store that offers basic household needs for anyone in the community, and it has been in Medicine Hat since the 80’s. Naqvi purchased the store from another family in 2008, and since then the store has been an important financial income for his family.
The new lights are LED, which will save the business owner money in the long run, and the security system helps bring another layer of safety and security. Naqvi is happier now when setting up the store every morning knowing it’s in its best condition, which is what any business owner wants for their storefront location.
“The grant gives you motivation because you know there are people and resources out there to help and guide you as a business owner. Applying for the grant didn’t take a lot of effort — it was so simple and easy. I couldn’t have brought in new lights or a security system without this support, and I really appreciate it. As a business owner who has a family, my whole family appreciates the help we got.”
Over the years, Naqvi has connected with many of his customers and is always looking forward to seeing new community members come in and be greeted with a nice, bright store.
Penny Profit can be found online at https://pennyprofitdiscountstore.com/.
