Men and women around the world want to get their families out of poverty. They want to provide their families with healthy food, clothing, shelter, and education. Many of these hardworking people have good business ideas – they just need a way to get started. Below are just a few examples of the different business types you can fund through Micro.
The Agriculture business sector covers all farming and livestock activities. Some entrepreneurs request loans to help in securing supplies and equipment. Others want to buy more animals to breed or purchase feed and medicines. The majority of our loan clients live in rural communities where agriculture is already understood as a business model. It is for this reason that approximately 50% of our loans are in the agricultural sector.
Hrachya Poghosyan is from Taratumb village, Vayots Dzor region, Armenia. He needs a loan of $1,000 to purchase livestock.
Retail is a quick and scalable way to begin earning a profit. Many entrepreneurs entrepreneur begin with stalls at markets or even at home and need a loan to expand or increase their inventory. Others may be ready to open a small store. Goods purchased from loan funds range from clothing, grocery or sundry items to jewelry, candy, perfume or health and beauty supplies. Loans in the commerce sector account for around 33% of our loans.
Rustam Vanyan is from Kapan, Armenia. He needs a loan of $1,475 to purchase photographic equipment and accessories.
Entrepreneurs with specialized skills can apply for a loan in the manufacturing sector. Examples of businesses in the manufacturing sector are making and selling clothes, shoes, machine parts, baskets…the list goes on. These savvy entrepreneurs see the opportunity in their community and, with the help of a loan and their unique talents, can establish their niche. Only 3% of our loans are in the manufacturing sector.
Angelina Francisco is from Brookes Point, Palawan, Philippines. She has 2 children. She needs a loan of $475 to buy supplies for fish drying.
In areas where the poor live alongside the more affluent, businesses in the service sector can be very successful. Services include flower cultivation, tailoring/sewing, transportation, repair work, beauty salons and barber shops, and restaurants. Loans are needed to begin, expand, or sustain business with tools and supplies. Loans given to entrepreneurs in the service sector account for around 7% of our loans.
Ara Sahakyan is from Vayk, Armenia. He needs a loan of $1,475 to purchase beehives.