Vivi Ligas was born into a family of entrepreneurs. Vivi attended college and graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Architecture from University of Tarumanagara in Jakarta, Indonesia 1998; yet her passion was in the food industry. She went to Switzerland soon after graduation and got a certificate in European Culinary Art in 1999 from Domino Carlton Tivoli, Luzern, Switzerland. After graduating, she got a job contract as Manager in Development at The Registry Resort Hotel/ now: Naples Grand Hotel, to work in all departments in the kitchen for 18 months. Vivi then did private catering for a while, worked as pastry chef at Bay Colony Beach Club, and as Pastry Chef at Island Country Club in Marco Island.

In 2005, Vivi saw an opportunity to start her own Asian Grocery Store. She understood what people needed, and she was outgoing, friendly, and knowledgeable. Most importantly, she was a good listener, always asking people about their food consumption needs. On April 2006 she visited the Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University and met with Julio Estremera, CBA, to request assistance in identifying the availability of loans for women-owned businesses. She wanted to open an Asian Market in partnership with her friend Ricky Lam. Ricky's expertise was also in food and hospitality. He owned and managed various Chinese restaurants in the area. Ricky was using the equity on his home for start-up capital & Vivi was uncertain about how to finance her share of the start-up cost. After discussing all loan options with Julio Estremera, she opted to use her personal savings and the equity in her home to proceed. Having sufficient capital of $350,000, Vivi and her partner found an excellent location. Yet, they still had to overcome one more major obstacle; finding suppliers. Julio spent over 18 hours of counseling time assisting Vivi and Ricky achieve their dream.

On November 2006 Vivi and Ricky had their grand opening. Working the business themselves for the past two years has proven to be a challenge, but Vivi and Ricky have overcome that challenge and are proud owners of Naples Best Asian Market.

"Nice service for us to share the experience, help small business to grow / confidential / forever grateful for assistance provided""
                                                                                                            - Vivi Ligas