🙌 It's inclusive.
At Kiva, we believe in character over credit and the power of community-based lending.
We provide crowdfunding opportunities for entrepreneurs where conventional lenders won’t.
Furthermore, final loan qualification decisions will never be based on your credit score nor credit history; in fact, Kiva doesn't even have a minimum credit score requirement*.
*The only related requirement is that you accurately report your current credit score range, previous bankruptcies (if applicable), and 90+ days past due debt (if applicable).
Your net worth nor will your years in business affect your application.
Instead, while we do look at your financials, we prioritize your character, the impact your loan will have on your community, and how much support you have from your community. This is shown by proving to us that you have a network of people who believe in you and your business and are willing to back you (vouch for you, in a way) – see social underwriting to learn more.
👍 It's inexpensive.
Capital doesn't have to be costly. At Kiva, you can qualify for a no-interest, no-fee, and no-collateral loan between $1,000-$15,000.
🖥 It's free marketing for your business.
When your loan is posted to the Kiva site, it becomes visible to our network of 2.1MM lenders worldwide. The exposure can get you new customers interested in your business and in buying from you or using your services! There is also the possibility that we’ll spotlight your business on our blog or social media, making your business visible to even more potential customers!
🌱 It's not just a loan.
Since Kiva U.S. was founded back in 2011, we’ve learned a lot, and we've improved the way in which we support hardworking and talented small business owners and entrepreneurs like you.
We offer applicants and borrowers alike many lots of resources, tips, and previous borrower experiences on a range of topics, from application to repayment and everything in between.
We also connect our borrowers with free business education resources – connecting them with partners of ours who provide courses, webinars, workshops, and even 1:1 coaching on topics such as financial management, marketing, legal services, and more.
Kiva borrowers can also build their business credit through Kiva, if they would like.
Read this brief blog post to learn more about how the Kiva team collects and acts on feedback from Kiva U.S. borrowers themselves.