1. What is your name, and how long have you been living and working in Summerside?
We are Jay and Nisha; we have been living in Summerside for more than 2 years now. Our business is “Devi Greens Inc”
2. What inspired you to start this business, and what made you choose your location?
As a couple, we have 25 years plus combined experience in the agriculture-related field from Nairobi-Kenya. I was part of one of the largest companies in Kenya, where I designed
Greenhouses and Irrigation systems for small and large farmers, advise them on sustainable farming technologies. Nisha used to run her own farm of vegetables as an
outgrower for the export market to Europe. PEI, being much focused on agriculture, we decided to move here. As Summerside is one of the fastest-developing economies, we
chose to start our Business in Summerside.
3. Can you tell me about your business and what products/services you offer?
Devi Greens offers a large variety of products and services such as seeds, Live plants, Potting soil, supplies and services related to greenhouses and customized irrigation
systems for your garden, grow beds, garden tools, and other products to support new and experienced gardeners and farmers alike. Our slogan is “TECHNOLOGY FOR ALL SEASONS’ GROWING NEEDS” So we also focus on all seasons, Indoor and Outdoor growing requirements, such as Backyard Garden Greenhouse kits, Hydroponics
systems, Irrigation systems, as we feel that due to Climate Change, we need to be prepared for the worst. We are now authorised distributors for Les Verts, which is 100%
made in Canada product for indoor growing for residential, Schools, community-based projects and commercial projects like restaurants, where customers can also apply for Government Grants to eligible institutions.
4. What do you love most about being a business owner in the Greater Summerside Area?
I barely take 10 minutes from my home to my business, which I used to take up to more than 3 hours in Kenya due to traffic. I can spend more time with my family here. I love
People are very friendly here.
5. What advice would you give to someone looking to start a business, and why should they choose the Greater Summerside Area?
The advice I would like to give is to choose the right location which your business needs. If you are targeting walk-in customers, make sure you are in a busy location where there is enough parking and is easily accessible. Make use of social media as much as possible to promote your products and services so your business can be seen and noticed to get more customers. Have your prices right so you can compete with other similar businesses like yours. Try to add value to your business to make it stand out from others. Share your experience with your products, and your customers will buy from you, as word of mouth works amazingly well in Summerside.