An opportunity to grow

Carmen Ledesma was running a successful salon that employed two stylists when she recognized a new business opportunity. Frequently, aestheticians and hairdressers with licenses from their home countries would visit her salon inquiring about how to obtain a license in New York. Originally from Paraguay, Carmen was compelled to help women new to the U.S. find work. So, she decided to start her own aesthetician school, focusing on the Latin community and holding classes in Spanish.

A loan to build many dreams

In order to start her training school, Carmen needed a loan. She had applied with traditional banks before, but she found their loan processes were long and impersonal. "It is almost impossible for a small business to get a bank loan without the long procedures".  Carmen learned about ACCION USA at a small business center and qualified for an $11,000 loan in 2003 to help her expand her salon to accommodate her beauty classes.

Since then Carmen's business has been growing rapidly and now that she is busier than ever, she is happier knowing that her efforts are not only benefiting her but also many in community. "Before my first loan, I only had two hair dressers on staff, and now I have nine. I also employ two doctors, one aesthetician and four class instructors," she says. Carmen's short-term plans include expanding her business into other locations- she is currently opening a second school in Astoria, Queens.

Recognized for her accomplishments

All of Carmen's hard work paid has paid off. In July 2010, Carmen was recognized by New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg with the Small Business of the Year Award. When she received the phone call with word that she had won, she was thrilled. "I really did not expect it, with so many businesses out there I was surprised they chose us," she says, "I am extremely happy because we definitely were very perseverant about this project and thanks to that perseverance and the way we planned it we were able to successfully achieve our goals."