Robin Fleek of Great Falls was ready to expand her assisted living business.  She opened Sapphire Inc. in 2001 founded on her dedication to provide a “home with assistance” in a cozy Victorian-style house.  The attractive location and exceptional care kept Sapphire full to capacity with a growing waiting list since the doors opened.  Robin hoped to duplicate the charm that put Sapphire in such high demand by renovating and expanding the twin Victorian house next door.

Robin purchased the neighboring Victorian with a home loan, but she was unable to get a traditional business loan to finance the final phase of renovation.  Robin contacted the Great Falls Development Authority, but they lacked the available funds to finance the large expansion.  However, they knew a loan from MCDC would be a perfect match.  The two community development non-profits joined forces to make the project happen.   MCDC financed the business expansion with a loan from their revolving loan fund, and GFDA agreed to service the loan.

Sapphire’s expansion will provide essential quality elder healthcare for Montana’s increasing senior population.  The expansion will more than double Sapphire’s residential capacity and employment to total 24 residents and 16 full-time jobs in rural Great Falls.  Residents feel at home mingling in the large living rooms and new deck connecting the two houses.  MCDC’s first cooperative deal with GFDA to finance small business across the state made Robin’s expansion fly.

To read more about Sapphire Assisted Living go to our news page:
Missoula and Great Falls Business Development Organizations Working Together
to Get Loan Dollars to Small Businesses