The project

Espoir is an Ecuadorian NGO that supports female micro-entrepreneurs with group loans and training. This helps women develop their entrepreneurial skills and secure a stable income.

Many of these women are single mothers and the sole breadwinners for their families. Since they are active in the informal economy, they don't build a credit history and are overlooked by traditional financial institutions. Espoir specifically targets these women.

By investing, you support gender equality in Ecuador and provide group loans to 125 women, like those in the video below, helping them improve their lives and those of their families. You contribute to their pursuit of financial independence and entrepreneurship.

Inspiring Stories from Ecuador: See How Espoir's Group Loans Change Lives:

What social return could your investment make?

In Ecuador, where the poverty rate was 46% in June 2023, Espoir's group loans offer female entrepreneurs a chance for a better future. Group loans foster community: women share experiences and hold each other accountable, increasing the likelihood of timely repayment.

This accessible way of borrowing is crucial as it helps these women build a credit history, enhancing their chances for future financing. In addition to providing group loans, Espoir also organizes training sessions. In 2022, there were about 45,000 sessions where entrepreneurs received financial education.

This support helps women grow their businesses and achieve financial stability. Espoir's group loans make a significant difference for female entrepreneurs and their families, helping them rise out of poverty and build a better future.

What financial return could your investment generate? 

• Annual interest rate 6%.
• The maturity of the loan is 24 months.
• Quarterly repayments: every three months, you receive a repayment of your investment plus interest, totaling eight repayments.
• With an investment of 1,000 euros, your expected total repayment would be 1,068 euros.
• Please consider that although you invest in EUR, the loan is in USD, so there is a risk of exchange rate fluctuations between dollars and euros. For more information on potential exchange rate risks, please visit our currency page.

The story of Espoir

Espoir actively tackles economic inequality by providing about 89,000 loans annually, contributing over $110 million to the economy. By June 2023, Espoir had helped 48.927 customers, primarily women from disadvantaged urban and rural areas.

Espoir offers more than just financial support. They stimulate economic growth, ensure social progress, and improve the health of Ecuadorian micro-entrepreneurs from vulnerable backgrounds. Additionally, Espoir provides insurance, including health and life insurance, offering extra security and well-being for the borrowers and their families.

Espoir in numbers

• Founded in 1992
• 425 employees
• Active in 6 Ecuadorian provinces
• As of 2023, 48,927 clients are served, 72% women, with 75% residing in rural areas