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Kiva - Another Way to Reach Entrepreneurs

Group Lending

I have been lending on Kiva for a couple years now. The other day I made my 100th loan. I have not lost money yet although I expect I will someday. So why do I keep lending? It is a way to help entrepreneurs all over the world. If you are not familiar with the Kiva model, it is a group lending site. People who need loans list their needs on the site and anyone interested in lending can lend as little as $25 of the total needed. Once there are enough people committed, the loan is completed. This is not a gift. The borrower is expected to pay the money back. 

A Global Impact

These loans are made all over the world. I have lent money in over 30 countries. You can select loans based on the country they are in, the type of business you wish to lend to or whether you want to lend to a man or woman. Kiva is a non-profit corporation that has over 677,000 lenders and has made possible over $275 million in loans. Check out the amazing stories of the people using Kiva. 

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Greater Des Moines Partnership

The Greater Des Moines Partnership is the largest regional business, economic development and talent development organization in Iowa and the second-largest regional chamber of commerce in the country, serving 12 counties in Greater Des Moines: Adair, Clarke, Dallas, Guthrie, Jasper, Madison, Mahaska, Marion, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek and Warren. Together with more than 400 Investors and an Affiliate Chamber of Commerce network of more than 7,200 Regional Chamber Members, The Partnership helps businesses grow and advances quality of life in Greater Des Moines with one voice, one mission and as one region, contributing to a vibrant regional economy.