Kiva was launched in 2005 as the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website.

A nonprofit organization, Kiva underwrites zero-percent-interest, zero-fee business loans of up to $15,000, and facilitates crowdfunding on their online platform. Kiva users can lend as little as $25 to individual entrepreneurs, providing them affordable capital to start or expand a small business. Kiva facilitates loans to entrepreneurs in more than 80 countries around the world and launched in the United States in 2011.

As Kiva’s local operating partner, Baltimore Corps works with borrowers throughout the application, fundraising, and repayment process to help them succeed.

Active Borrowers

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Resources

FAQ

Every week on Kiva.org, more than $2.5 million is invested in small businesses around the world and right here in Baltimore.

UNIQUE CROWDFUNDING

Kiva’s unique crowdfunding model helps business owners access affordable, small loans with the help of their community. Check out the requirements and loan sizes below to see if Kiva Baltimore can help your business grow.

nonprofit Loans

Nonprofits are eligible for Kiva loans as long as there is a revenue stream, like coffee sales, a thrift shop, etc.

Credit-Builder Loans

Kiva determines the loan amount based on many factors contained within the application, including things like finances, social media presence, and quality of narrative. Often, Kiva will start an entrepreneur off with a small loan that is easier to fundraise and repay. This way, entrepreneurs can build business credit and get involved with the Kiva community. Once the first loan is repaid, the entrepreneur can immediately apply for a larger loan. Kiva favors repeat borrowers because there is already a proven track record.

HELP LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS FLOURISH, BECOME A:

TRUSTEE

LENDER

Kiva loans can be used for many different business expenses.

It's up to you, the business owner, to put the loan to its best use.

Minimum Requirements

At least 18 years old
Not in current bankruptcy or foreclosure
Not a Franchise or Multi-level marketing
Using the loan for a legal and socially responsible business

Our most successful borrowers

Have a Strong Network of Supporters
If approved for a loan, 10-35 people from an entrepreneur’s personal network must be willing to lend $25 each on the Kiva platform before the campaign goes public to a wider audience.
Are Tech-Able
Successful borrowers are responsive by email, have a PayPal account, and are practiced at website navigation, etc.
Are Significantly Impacted by a Small Loan
A loan of $500 to $15,000 can be shown to significantly increase your business' revenue or decrease expenses.
Have a Business Plan
A specific, written plan shows potential supporters a plan for growth and the use of the Kiva loan.
Work with the Baltimore Corps Team
Borrowers who work closely with Baltimore Corps are more likely to succeed on the platform.