Myrtle Darlington had already tackled and conquered an entrepreneur's first challenge in starting her own business. But the popular Fruits and vegetable vendor soon realized she had a new issue - how to expand.

When Myrtle first started what was to become a life long endeavor, she worked at three jobs: Days worker; snack vender; and a cook.

Myrtle left her day job in 1971 and plunged into her business full time with, as she say, "only by the grace of God." Opening her doors just before fruits and vegetable season, she started with one employee, herself and a make shift stall.

Several years later, thanks to the crucial assistance of the National Development Foundation of Jamaica, Myrtle was able to continue and expand her business, traveling sometimes to Portland and St Ann to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables.

Like many small business owners, Myrtle was skilled at her craft, but ill-prepared to support her case for a business loan. NDFJ consultant, Keisha Crooks, introduce Myrtle to the concept of a business plan, and over the next few years worked with her to improve bookkeeping, cost tracking and inventory control.

She didn't know it then, but stood at the threshold of an arduous education as well as the beginning of a long and fruitful collaboration with the National Development Foundation of Jamaica.

"When you know someone has worked hard to build a dream, you want to make sure that dream doesn't turn into a nightmare." says Crooks.

Increased cash flow and sales growth followed

At sixty three (63) years old Myrtle Darlington has been with the NDFJ over 10 yrs, and with solid business foundation gained, she now knows her business as well as she know her craft. "All my hard work and the NDFJ's business knowledge helped me."

"Thanks NDFJ."