Tri Toad Nursery, crowdfunding beneficiary
Grows from Seedling to Success with Standard Bank Crowdfunding Partnership.
The context
Sheena Paulus, the owner of Tri Toad Nursery located in the Western Cape, embarked on a commercial seedling nursery project in June 2022. She identified a gap in her community and aimed to grow organic vegetables to supply local retailers. Facing the challenges of limited funding and few women in the industry, Sheena sought opportunities to realize her nursery's potential. After discovering the Standard Bank Crowdfunding partner page, she decided to take a leap of faith.
IMAGE GALLERY
The challenge
Sheena lacked financial backing to sustain her nursery and fulfil her goal of acquiring a business vehicle. While she had received capital inputs from the Department of Agriculture, she needed additional funds to manage nursery costs and expand her clientele. Tri Toad Nursery faced the hurdles of limited resources and a male-dominated industry.
The solution
Sheena applied for crowdfunding through Standard Bank and launched an impressive campaign, securing R100,900 in funds. Although she could not purchase a vehicle, the money supported her nursery operations and attracted more customers. With improved resources, Tri Toad Nursery flourished, ensuring its viability, and enhancing its reputation.
The outcome
Since receiving the crowdfunding funds, Sheena's nursery achieved significant milestones.
- Tri Toad Nursery successfully supplied its first retailer and experienced remarkable growth, expanding its customer base. Furthermore, the nursery extended support to various community gardens, including those in schools. By pledging to donate seedlings to local schools or community food gardens, Sheena continued to make a positive impact on food security.
- Tri Toad Nursery, which initially comprised only Sheena, now employs nine staff members. Sheena's plans include purchasing a nursery as part of her expansion strategy and continuing to involve her daughters in the agricultural industry.
Visit Tri Toad Nursery's social media pages to learn more:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tritoad/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tritoadprojects
Interested in Learning More?
Discover more about Standard Bank's alternative funding solutions and initiatives to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by visiting our website: Standard Bank Alternative Funding. We are committed to providing innovative financial options that can help businesses like yours thrive. Explore the range of funding opportunities available and find the right solution to fuel your growth. At Standard Bank, we are here to support your entrepreneurial journey every step of the way.
Sheena Paulus, Managing Director at Tri Toad (Pty) Ltd
"Our mission is driven by a profound love for community and a deep-rooted passion for making a positive impact in food security".
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