The Gift of Community Resources in the MLK

There is no better fit for Kate Quinn Organics than the Seattle area. As the earth-friendly city embraces the “Green Movement,” owner Kate Quinn has the perfect business: organic clothing. Since 2005, Kate Quinn Organics has provided young families with superior baby clothing made from certified organic cotton without the use of chemicals or toxins. The clothing line is also Fair Trade certified, and not to mention, incredibly cute. As organic food provide inner health, the external benefit of organic clothing provides comfort for the infants' sensitive skin.

Quinn's immediate sales results forecasted a huge potential for her business. Sales doubled on an annual basis from 2005 to 2008. Like other businesses, however, the economic troubles of 2008 had a drastic negative impact for the company. Specifically, for product-based businesses such as Kate Quinn Organics, growth was directly limited to inventory. With high risks involved due to the economy, it was difficult for Quinn to continue business development with the limited inventory available. This downward spiral put the business in jeopardy of maximizing growth. The bottom line - Kate Quinn Organics needed capital.

Fortunately, through the strong knit community, Quinn stumbled upon Rainier Valley Community Development Fund. As a women-owned business, she never attempted to apply for a small business loan. With the daunting strict qualifications for small business owners, her lack of awareness for the vast resources that surrounded her prevented her company from growing. In addition, she never expected to even being approved for the loan.

With the loan, she was able to increase inventory, establish an office space for her business, and provide stable jobs for her tight knit team of nine employees. Kate Quinn Organics' financial results prove the success tied directly to CDF. In the past year, her sales have increased from $770,000 to $1.8 million – a net increase of 224%. With the loan, Quinn has a targeted strategy of surviving the tough economy - decrease overhead costs, increase retail sales, and keep a sharp eye on generating revenue. “It was an amazing gift,” comments Quinn on her business loan from CDF.

“Reach out and ask for help, because the resources at the Rainier Valley Community Development Fund are available,” suggests Quinn. Kate Quinn Organics' outlet store on Rainier Avenue proves to be a secret spot for baby clothing enthusiasts. Open only on Saturdays, excited parents find an assortment of organic baby clothing at the sample sale and trunk show. At drastically discounted prices of at least 50% off, Quinn is able to pass along the resources that CDF provided to her surrounding community.

The Rainier Valley Community Development Fund provides economic development for local residents, businesses and developers through its loan programs.

Photographer:  Flyright Productions