Did you know that unlike many microfinance organizations, Five Talents does not charge interest and does not provide loan capital? Over the years we’ve adopted a savings-group model that is much more effective at empowering the poor.
It may sound crazy to suggest that in some of the poorest areas of the world people have any money at all to save. Surprisingly, there are local resources that can be leveraged as communities learn to save and invest together. Families often start by saving as little as 50 cents a week. As they save, each participant learns business skills, and in many cases reading and writing skills as well.
Instead of using donor's gifts to make loans, which can make a new entrepreneur dependent, our partners use funds donated to Five Talents to provide training and to establish local groups that save and invest their own resources. The wholistic training helps entrepreneurs develop locally-owned businesses. This approach is effective and sustainable.
Matching Gift Opportunity
By investing in training, we mobilize and leverage local knowledge and skills to build sustainable businesses. By working with communities and in small groups, we leverage existing social networks and capital. By using a “savings-first” approach, we help to create long-term financial solutions.
This leverage means that every dollar you give to Five Talents reaches more families, accomplishes more good, and delivers lasting results. So, go ahead, make a gift to Five Talents and let your impact be leveraged.