Many social enterprises fall into a “missing middle” — businesses in emerging markets that are too small for traditional bank loans and too large for most microloans. 



Kiva uses the power of crowdfunding to lend to these organizations at an early stage when other financial service providers won’t. With the right funding, these businesses can grow and address global issues like food security and clean energy. By assuming some of the financial risk and providing this initial capital, Kiva helps social enterprises prove their viability — and secure additional funding as they continue to scale.

This is known as catalytic funding. Think of it as the jumpstart (or catalyst) a business needs to be successful and encourage others to invest.

AGRICULTURAL SOCIAL ENTERPRISES

Raising farmer incomes and improving food security

Agricultural growth is twice as effective at improving livelihoods and increasing income than any other sector. That means enterprise-level loans to businesses that pay fair prices could change the lives of countless smallholder farmers, many of whom live off less than $2 a day. These loans give farmers opportunities to invest in their businesses, increase productivity, and secure a more stable future. Supporting organizations focused on climate-smart agricultural practices is also a win for the planet. Sustainable and regenerative agriculture improves the health of the land for future generations. This ensures that smallholder farmers can sustain their livelihoods — and our global food supply. 



Learn more about Kiva’s work supporting smallholder farmers →

WATER & SANITATION SOCIAL ENTERPRISES

Expanding access to essential needs for all

Imagine living without clean and safe water to drink or cook with. That’s the reality for the 2 billion people facing water insecurity today. On top of that, 46% of the world’s population doesn't have access to sanitation services like toilets or waste management. Funding businesses that provide access to clean water and create more sanitary homes can be life-changing for both families and entire communities.

CLEAN ENERGY SOCIAL ENTERPRISES

Helping more people power their lives — even in remote areas

Access to cleaner energy from solar power, clean cookstoves, and biodigesters can help lower greenhouse gas emissions — and elevate people’s quality of life. Roughly 40% of the world has stoves that release kerosene fumes indoors, which can be as harmful as smoking two packs of cigarettes a day.


And for the 940 million people around the world without access to electricity, solar power can be the quickest, most affordable way to light up their lives. Funding clean energy and other carbon-capture businesses is good for people, and the planet. 



Read more about Kiva’s work mitigating climate change →

ARTISAN SOCIAL ENTERPRISES

Keeping cultural traditions alive through the arts

Traditional crafts are often passed down through generations. Unfortunately, mass production has threatened the livelihoods of many artisans around the world who rely on their skills to earn income.  Right now, artisans are some of the lowest-paid workers in the world, barely earning enough to sustain their livelihoods despite long working hours. Supporting businesses that employ these specialized workers helps preserve history and culture. It also promotes more sustainable — and unique — products.