A loan helped to invest in high quality wool to make felt and a new felt-making machine for her growing business.


Zhypara's story

Zhypara lives in a small village near 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. Last year, Zhypara took out her first Kiva loan of $8,000, which allowed her to purchase high-quality raw material and new equipment. Zhypara repaid this loan in full and on time, and this loan led to her artisan business having a greater production capacity and being able to pay her artisans a higher income.

A second loan of $10,000 will help Zhypara invest in an additional felt-making machine for her growing business. This loan will also allow Zhypara to invest in more raw materials such as the wool needed to make the felt. Through this loan, Zhypara will be able to increase her sales and production, and she will be able to create a community for young 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