A loan helped to purchase high quality wool and two new sewing machines to increase production of traditional handicrafts and employ 3 women in Kyrgyzstan.


Zhypara's story

Zhypara lives in a small village near the beach of Issikkul Lake in Kyrgyzstan. She has spent her entire life working with felt, learning the craft from her mother. She has grown her small business to work with 12 local women, and continues to teach young people to make traditional felted products. These pieces include small boxes shaped like yurts, national dolls, embroidered wall hangings, slippers, baby boots, and hats. Every product is made entirely by hand. Zhypara hopes to continue growing her craft business, employing more young women in her village and beyond.

She will use a loan of $8,000 to buy high quality raw wool, two new sewing machines, and a chain stitch machine. These investments in raw materials and tools will allow Zhypara to increase production of handcrafted felted products, increase sales, and train and employ 3 local women in Kyrgyzstan.


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