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Kupanda African and Caribbean Market
Joseph’s passion for entrepreneurship and community service inspired him to launch Kupanda Market, a specialty grocery store dedicated to serving the Congolese community while also providing customers from African and Caribbean countries with access to the foods, ingredients, and products that connect them to home. From the beginning, Joseph envisioned Kupanda Market as more than just a grocery store. He wanted it to become a trusted destination for cultural foods and a leader in California’s grocery industry, with plans to expand beyond state borders in the future.
In 2023, Joseph sought assistance from the IRC Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to strengthen the financial foundation of his growing business and gain access to the capital needed for expansion. At the time, Kupanda Market generated approximately $60,000 in annual revenue, but the business faced significant challenges. Like many small business owners, Joseph struggled to secure financing because he lacked the detailed financial documentation and cash flow projections that lenders typically require. Managing day-to- day cash flow while planning for growth also proved difficult, limiting the business’s ability to take advantage of new opportunities.
IRC SBDC advisors worked closely with Joseph through individualized technical assistance focused on improving the business’s financial preparedness. The team helped him develop detailed cash flow projections, gain a deeper understanding of business performance, identify future revenue opportunities, and assess financing needs. Advisors also reviewed the company’s business model and growth strategy to ensure expansion plans were financially sound and sustainable. With these tools in place, IRC SBDC guided Joseph through preparing a microloan application package and provided ongoing support throughout the lending process.
As a result of this collaborative effort, Kupanda Market successfully secured a $41,000 microloan, providing the working capital necessary to invest in growth initiatives and strengthen operations. Over the following two years, the business achieved remarkable results. Annual revenue increased from $60,000 to $190,000, representing an impressive 216% increase in sales. The company also expanded its economic contribution to the community by creating a new part-time position, further supporting local employment.
Today, Kupanda Market continues to fulfill its mission of providing high-quality grocery products and exceptional service to diverse communities while maintaining a strong commitment to cultural connection and inclusion. With improved financial management, access to capital, and a clear roadmap for growth, Joseph is well positioned to realize his vision of becoming a leading grocery retailer in California and eventually expanding beyond the state.
Areas of Assistance
Finance
Expansion
Economic Impact
-Increased annual
revenue from $60,000
to $190,000 over two
years.
-Achieved more than
216% sales growth.
Location
San Diego, CA 92105
“Working with IRC SBDC was a turning point for my business. Before receiving assistance, I had the passion and vision, but I wasn’t sure how to present my business financially to secure funding. The team helped me understand my numbers, prepare realistic cash flow projections, and guided me through every step of the loan application process. Their support gave me the confidence and resources I needed to grow my business.”
