Why do Micro-enterprise Development? | Step Ahead Integrated Community Development

1. Microfinance can bring mega results.

In Thailand, a microloan of between $100 to $200 can bring big results in terms of opening up economic opportunities to a poor family. That means more income for better foods, shelter, healthcare and education.

2. It builds personal responsibility and dignity.

The poor of Bangkok are not looking for a hand out, but a hand up. Microfinance opportunities makes the poor responsible for increasing their incomes and bringing blessing to their families through starting or building up their own small businesses.

3. The poor prove they can save, to qualify for a microloan.

Regular savings prove a serious, conscientious client. It shows readiness to Step Ahead to a microloan. Further, savings serve as a hedge against loan default.

4. Step Ahead groups guarantee loans, and build social capital.

A Step Ahead group of about 10 - 25 saves together, meets together weekly, and pulls together, to help all group members grow and succeed.

5. Training and mentoring are centralstrengths.

Weekly Step Ahead meetings with program staff not only make for loan repayment and savings facilitation, but also become powerful opportunities to use cutting edge personal development materials mingled with faith, love, and applicable scriptural teaching.

6. Step Ahead groups learn and grow together.

A Step Ahead group of about 10 - 25 saves together, meets together, and pulls together to help each other grow and succeed.

7. Microfinance can finance itself.

Serious microfinance programs have the potential, and plan to be sustainable. Service contributions and fees from Step Ahead MED clients help feed and grow the program itself, increasing the capital available for loans to new clients.