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Kiva Zip
US Kiva Zip at Kiva.org
Kiva Zip is an initiative under Kiva.org, a nonprofit organization that facilitates microloans to underserved entrepreneurs. Launched in 2011, Kiva Zip specifically aims to provide 0% interest loans to individuals who may not qualify for traditional financing due to lack of credit history or collateral. This program utilizes a unique approach called social underwriting, which evaluates a borrower's character and community support rather than relying solely on credit scores.13
Key Features of Kiva Zip
- Loan Amounts: Borrowers can access loans up to $10,000 with terms extending up to 36 months.3
- Application Process: The application and fundraising period typically lasts between 1 to 3 months, during which borrowers must invite individuals from their networks to lend as little as $25 each.3
- Success Rate: Kiva Zip boasts a 90% success rate for borrowers reaching their fundraising goals, highlighting the effectiveness of community involvement in the lending process.3
Impact and Reach
Since its inception, Kiva Zip has aimed to empower entrepreneurs by providing them with the necessary capital to launch or expand their businesses. This initiative complements Kiva’s broader mission of expanding financial access globally, having facilitated over 1.6 million loans totaling more than $1.68 billion across various sectors and regions.25
Kiva Zip operates primarily in the United States and has been recognized for its innovative model, which not only provides financial support but also fosters community connections among lenders and borrowers. The platform has garnered attention from notable figures, including former President Bill Clinton, who praised its impact on global financial inclusion.5
For more information about Kiva Zip, you can find their professional profile on LinkedIn under the username kiva-zip-63608060, where they connect with various stakeholders involved in community lending and entrepreneurship.4