Making funds available for micro, small and medium sized enterprises is crucial to the economic growth of Africa.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are widely recognized as important drivers of socio-economic growth and development, creative inventions, and job creation. They have the potential of increasing standards of living and reducing poverty in African societies. Africa's small enterprises, from trading to farming, contribute more than 80% of output and jobs in most African nations. Read more here...

The Problem: Studies have attributed low-level of available financing as a major factor  militating against the growth of SMEs in Africa -  when compared to other developing countries. M any people living below the bread line want to start a small business or expand an existing one, but financial resources are unavailable to them from banks and other traditional lending institutions because of a lack of collateral.

How We Are Providing a Solution: Develop Africa's Micro-finance and Business Development training program is geared towards assisting beneficiaries with access to the funds they need. This helps them to start or expand their existing businesses, so that they can become self-sufficient.

When they obtain access to the business funds they need, they are able to expand their businesses, stimulate local economic growth, and hire others in need of employment. 

Our program helps promote self-sufficiency as it breaks the cycle of poverty. It encourages the entrepreneurial spirit and fosters creativity.

Increased Demand for Micofinance After August Flooding / landslide in Sierra Leone:

As you may know from previous newsletters and the international media, over a thousand people lost their homes in August in Sierra Leone. In the past week, over 400 people were relocated to Hill Station where they are temporarily living in several tents. 

Women and kids inside a tent at Hill station

You can see some of the women and kids in the above photo. Each tent has over 30 mattresses on the floor. 

The beneficiaries that we distributed emergency relief supplies to expressed an eagerness to get back on their feet. Some of them specifically asked for microfinance support to help them restart their businesses.

Based on our previous experience providing microfinance and interviews conducted with these beneficiaries who have lost all, we are convinced that providing microfinance funds would be a great way to help them regain independence.

How You Can Help: Your donation of $100 or more will provide an interest-free microfinance loan and bring new hope to a woman who has lost all.  When you donate today, we will send you a brief bio and "thank you" photo from the specific person who received your donated funds.

Thank you for your support towards providing financial assistance to qualified beneficiaries. Kindly click the link below to provide a loan to a flood-affected woman in Sierra Leone.

Support Small Businesses in Africa

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Note: Program phased out  in February 2023

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With  deep gratitude for your support and partnership, 

Amy and the Develop Africa team