Flor De Maiz 2 Group

Two years ago, twenty-four-year-old María opened her convenience store from her home in the department/state of San Marcos. She also raises chickens that she sells from her home and in the local market. Shortly after opening the store, she began selling regional snack foods by custom order four times weekly. Her mother and sister help her with the businesses and help care for her three children, who range in age from six months to six years. Her income, combined with that of her husband who works in the flower business, is essential to cover expenses. Her goals are to enlarge the businesses and open her own storefront. Maria wants to use the Kiva loan to purchase basic items, drinks, snacks, and ingredients for her meals.

María joined six other women and formed the Friendship Bridge Trust Bank “Flor de Maiz 2.” They learn to manage their tortilla shops, vegetable farms, sales of regional snack foods and chicken by the pound in a monthly educational training, part of the “Microcredit Plus” program. Other topics are about health, family, and women. Recently, the ladies learned about the dangers of over-indebtedness and how to be an effective entrepreneur. The training is essential for their success since many are like María, who only had four years of formal education. A Facilitator uses pictures, diagrams, role playing, and games to share information. Often, the women share what they learn with family members and friends.

Thank you, Kiva lenders!

In this group: Keyli Damaris , Maria Consuelo , Yury Marilu , Maria Doralicia , Sujeydi Mishel, Silvina Noemi , Sindy Yorleni