Bracha Rubinov had a dream, to open her own business, the Economic Development Unit of Arad, made it come true!!!

Bracha is 36 years old, married with three children and has been living in Arad her whole life. She was employed for several years as a salesperson in a sporting goods/clothing store in the Dead Sea and always dreamed of owning her own business. While working, she realized that among her regular customers, there was a large number of the Arad community shopping for sporting goods. At that realization, Bracha's dream unfolded before her eyes, to open a sports store of her very own!

Through a friend's recommendation, she approached the Economic Development Unit (E.D.U.) of Arad, which is sponsored by Partnership 2000 of Arad/Tamar, New Jersey/Delaware, and asked for assistance. Apprehensive and excited, Bracha found there wonderful and patient angels to guide her through the difficult process of opening her store. Inbal, who took Bracha under her wing, advised her to apply for a subsidized, low interest rate loan from the "Kip" foundation for small businesses. Through the intensive guidance of the E.D.U., Bracha applied, went to the necessary interviews, constructed a detailed financial plan for the venture. Her application was accepted and Bracha received the much-needed loan. She had her grand opening three months ago. Bracha was on her way and her dream was now very much a reality!!

The E.D.U.'s help didn't stop there. Inbal continues to be in constant contact with Bracha, showing a warm interest in all aspects of the daily routine of owning a shop in Arad. Bracha consults with Inbal about every problem and receives valued advice at every turn. In addition, a financial consultant of the "Kip" foundation comes to Arad every few weeks, to give hands on advice on bookkeeping and financial planning of the business. Bracha is never alone and constantly embraced by the E.D.U. family.

Bracha very emotionally praised everyone involved in helping her and had a message for budding, new entrepreneurs of Arad: "I highly recommend anyone interested in the field, to go and check out the E.D.U. for business advice and guidance. Their help comes from the heart with no hidden agenda. They are with you all the way and then some more!!"

Iyyar 5764 - May 2004