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Womens Economic Ventures: a new veterinarian practice with a four-legged patient
$ 100,000 grant
2012-13
Establish a Revolving Micro Loan Fund

This grant established a micro-loan fund to help low-income women start or expand their own businesses. The fund was structured as a rolling trust so as borrowers repay, the money is re-loaned allowing the fund to continue in perpetuity. By empowering women to help themselves, the program focuses on a root problem of poverty - economic inequality. Micro-loans have funded more than 230 local businesses including restaurants, specialty food stores, hair and nail salons, florists and a veterinarian. The program helped more women in the community make the transition from low-paying jobs or welfare into their own businesses.