This loan is part of VisionFund Cambodia's effort to promote solar energy and make it available for low-income, rural households that lack access to electricity. When clean, solar lighting is affordable, entrepreneurs can work longer hours and generate more income; children can study longer after dark to do better in school; and families can improve their standard of living.
VF Cambodia created this loan product on the recommendation of a feasibility study on renewable energy conducted in collaboration with Frankfurt University. By working with Kiva, the organization is able to offer these loans at a lower interest rate, making it even more affordable for families to go solar.
About VisionFund Cambodia:
VisionFund Cambodia is a Christian organization and microfinance institution that provides small loans and other financial services to improve the lives of children, empower poor women and their families, and grow successful businesses. The organization works primarily in rural parts of Cambodia and has distinguished itself by targeting the very poor who require smaller loan sizes, regardless of religious beliefs, gender or ethnic background.
Kiva lenders? funds will help the organization to expand into the northeastern provinces of the country, which have historically been underserved and difficult to reach with financial services.