A message from Kiva borrower Mohammad

Mohammad is a forty-two-year-old married man. He is the father of four sons. Six years ago, Mohammad opened a small cafe in the city, where he sells soft drinks, coffee and tea. It's a good business and earns a good income but it wasn't enough to cover family expenses.

Mohammad took out a Kiva loan from FATEN, to help him buy more chairs and tables for his cafe. By taking this loan, Mohammad has been able to improve his cafe and increase sales.

Why we do what we do at Kiva:

We envision a world where all people - even in the most remote areas of the globe - hold the power to create opportunity for themselves and others.

We believe providing safe, affordable access to capital to those in need helps people create better lives for themselves and their families.

How we do it:

Making a loan on Kiva is so simple that you may not realize how much work goes on behind the scenes.

Kiva works with microfinance institutions on five continents to provide loans to people without access to traditional banking systems. One hundred percent of your loan is sent to these microfinance institutions, which we call Field Partners, who administer the loans in the field.

Kiva relies on a world wide network of over 450 volunteers who work with our Field Partners, edit and translate borrower stories, and ensure the smooth operation of countless other Kiva programs.

100% of every dollar you lend on Kiva goes directly towards funding loans; Kiva does not take a cut. Furthermore, Kiva does not charge interest to our Field Partners, who administer the loans.

Kiva is primarily funded through the support of lenders making optional donations. We also raise funds through grants, corporate sponsors, and foundations.

We are incredibly thankful for the support that has enabled us to do the work that has touched the lives of so many people.