Idea exchange
October 29, 2008

Web site enables direct investment in global poverty fight

Opportunity International, one of the world's largest and fastest growing microfinance organizations, today announced the launch of OptINnow(TM), a new initiative in the fight against global poverty. OptINnow connects people who want to make a difference with the working poor around the world who need small business loans to lift themselves out of poverty.

Through the new online donation model, consumers can "opt in" to become part of a global movement to help transform the lives of entrepreneurs throughout the developing world. Millions of poor people, many of whom live on less than $2 a day, struggle to fund businesses and make enough money for their families to survive. A single loan from OptINnow starts the cycle of poverty alleviation, helping poor entrepreneurs to start or expand a business, and enabling them to provide better nutrition and schooling for their families and job creation in their communities.

Visitors to OptINnow.org can read the story of each entrepreneur, which includes her or his name, photo, business profile and business needs, and then select one or more clients to support. The site currently features entrepreneurs in Kenya, the Philippines and Mexico, with more countries to be added in the coming weeks.

Serving approximately 1.2 million poor entrepreneurs in 28 developing countries, Opportunity International offers small business loans, savings, insurance and training in basic business practices to people living in chronic poverty.

Back to page top

Salt news | In session | Stat house | Salt links | Idea exchange | SOTE Self-help zone | Salt shakers | Salt archives | Back to main