As a farmer herself, Vai Phors understood the struggles her fellow farmers faced in accessing quality agricultural inputs in rural Cambodia. With unwavering determination, she decided to address this issue by establishing her own store, specializing in selling agricultural inputs. She connected with iDE and received business training and support and was excited to begin her venture in a confident and organized way.

Just as construction of her store was completed, the world was struck by the COVID-19 pandemic. While others saw it as a setback, Phors saw an opportunity. Undeterred by the challenging circumstances, she began reaching out to various wholesalers to procure a diverse range of agricultural inputs, making her store a one-stop-shop for farmers in the area.

Despite the harsh realities of the pandemic, there was a sudden resurgence in agriculture practices in Cambodia. Families returned home from their jobs abroad and turned to farming, realizing the importance of food security during these uncertain times. Phors’ store played a pivotal role in supporting this agrarian revival by providing essential inputs, advice, and even credit to farmers who needed it most.

Phors filled the remaining space in her store with many everyday items. As its inventory expanded, Phors’ store transformed into a convenience store, catering not only to farmers but also to the entire village. Word spread about her quality products and reliable advice and her business boomed, attracting customers from neighboring villages, too.