Kiva Helps Entrepreneurs in the Developing World

The concept is so simple yet the impact is big. Kiva has made it easier to connect people who are willing to loan their money to third-world entrepreneurs, especially women, via an online platform.

Kiva works by partnering with microfinance institutions (MFIs), which in turn actively on the lookout for business-owners in need of small loans. The MFIs are also involved in the fund distribution process.

Lenders, on the other hand, are made up of ordinary people, like you and me, who can be part of this life-changing project by lending as little as $25. Lenders start by selecting a business he or she wants to sponsor. After making a loan, they will receive updates on how their money are used. After loans are repaid, lenders are free to re-loan or withdraw the money.

Almost everything is done online; from the online profile of qualified borrowers uploaded by MFIs or Field Partners, to lenders' profiles uploaded by lenders themselves, to uploading funds for loans.

Kiva's motto is "loans that change lives". To support this worthy cause and change people's lives, you can visit Kiva's website at www.Kiva.org.

• Kiva