Champion’s Pharmacy & Herb Store (2369 Elvis Presley Boulevard), a family-owned business started by Dr. Charles Champion in 1981 and now owned by his daughter, Dr. Carol Champion, was approved for a $20,000 EDGE Inner City Economic Development (ICED) Loan. The ICED Loan Program’s purpose is to spark the revitalization of Memphis inner-city neighborhood business districts through small forgivable loans to assist with building improvements and business expansion.
Located on the edge of South Memphis, Champion’s Pharmacy provides a distinct service to the neighborhood by working largely with uninsured area patients. Champion’s Pharmacy also ships herbal treatments to customers worldwide through online sales. Dr. Champion applied for assistance to help complete a full restoration of the 2,635 SF building, update the façade, and improve accessibility. The project is supported by the Black Business Association, Mt. Olive Cathedral CMW Church, and the neighboring Coney Island restaurant. Total project costs are estimated to be $33,600 excluding interior improvements already underway.
“EDGE is pleased to assist Champion’s Pharmacy, a longstanding community business,” said John Lawrence, EDGE Manager, and Strategic Economic Development Planning. “Champion’s Pharmacy has proven to be a good steward of the neighborhood. While EDGE’s ICED Loan program provides a small amount of financial support; it is the commitment from Champion’s and the support from the community that works together to make this project a success.”