Tata Sidibe
Tata Sidibe is the definition of an entrepreneur. Originally from Mali in northwestern Africa, Tata moved to Colorado to pursue a degree in business administration.
While still completing her classes, Tata decided to launch her own business: Ibiza African Market, providing African groceries, clothes, and other assorted goods. Launching this business would mean working seven days a week, 9 A.M. to 9 P.M., while finishing her degree. It would also mean raising capital to buy inventory. Through the Colorado Small Business Association, Tata found ACCION. “I wasn’t sure if I could do this by myself, but my loan officer at ACCION told me I could if I had the dream,” recalled Tata. “They really motivated me with their belief in me.” ACCION’s belief in Tata went well beyond the loan. ACCION worked with Tata to improve her business plan. ACCION encouraged her to call other African market owners in Colorado and around the country to ask questions and get advice.
Tata’s loan officer even helped her differentiate her store. “ACCION suggested I create little cooking booklets to teach customers how to prepare African dishes. Other local African markets don’t do this.” Tata opened the doors to Ibiza African Market in early spring of 2009, six weeks before graduating from school. She works closely with her customers to help them find what they need and answer any of their questions. “When a customer asks for something I don’t have, I research the product at another store or on Google to find out where I can buy it. When the customer returns, I have the product.” In the future, Tata hopes to expand her store’s product line to bring more African and other international goods to her local community. “I am very happy for the opportunity and for receiving the trust of ACCION.”