I had heard of Kiva before… received invites via e-mails and read blog posts, but it wasn’t until I saw this Pod aired on Current that I decided to participate. After jumping in and choosing an entrepreneur to lend to, I really got hooked. The site is clean, friendly and very usable. So far, the experience has been positive one. I recommend checking the pod out, and participating, if you can.
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Kiva.org ROCKS as does the concept of microlending. I had an interesting conversation with a Economist at Gettysburg College recently who has done extensive research on African continent nations such as Malawi. He noted the demographics that typically carry with microlending tend to favor female participation. This is an interesting dynamic that also reflects a changing trend in global entrepreneurship.
Young Donors Turn to Micro Loans
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6668527
Beyond Charity: Micro-Lending as Good Business
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6682424
— April 28, 2008
I loaned money several months ago to a Lady in Africa who runs a computer business. She’s almost completely done repaying, and when that happens I will loan to a new person.
— April 29, 2008
@Robbie Thompson Thanks for those links! I did notice that there are a lot of female entrepreneurs, which I think is fantastic.
@Carly The woman I loaned money to makes beautiful jewelery in Mexico. I can’t wait to see how things turn out. Did you ever get any follow-up pictures? I would love to see a follow-up if that is possible.
— April 29, 2008