A loan helped to participate in the International Folk Art Market and provide stable employment for 10 artisans in Kyrgyzstan.


Askarbek's story

Askarbek practices centuries-old hand-weaving techniques, representing centuries-old nomadic art from Central Asia. By weaving each piece by hand, Askarbek believes he can weave a bridge between the cultures of the past and the present. When Askarbek’s family moved from his native Tajikistan to Kyrgyzstan due to ongoing war, weaving became the only source of survival. Today, the family workshop represents one of the most skilled traditional weaving centers in Kyrgyzstan.

Since establishing his family business, Askarbek has begun working with local artisans in Kyrgystan, and selling products in international markets. Askarbek has been selected to participate for a second year in the competitive International Folk Art Market in Santa Fe, New Mexico, after a very successful first trip in 2016. Askarbek will use a loan of $8,000 to be able to participate in the market, and continue providing stable employment for 10 artisans in Kyrgyzstan. Participating in international markets will expose his handcrafted pieces to people around the world, employ more artisans in his workshop, and increase the production of traditional handwoven goods.


This loan is special because:

It supports artisan organizations that have an impact beyond a single artisan.



Loan details


Lenders and lending teams




Loan details