Espoir 16
Women in Ecuador are more often unemployed than men: in August 2024, the unemployment rate was 5.9% for women, compared to 2.6% for men. In addition, women are more likely to work in informal jobs. Starting a business offers them a way to earn a stable income, supported by group loans from Espoir.
The project
Without access to financing, economic independence remains out of reach for many women in Ecuador. Many work in the informal sector: caregiving responsibilities take up much of their time, and formal employment is scarce in remote areas. Starting a business offers a way forward, with access to financing through group loans from NGO Espoir.
Espoir strengthens entrepreneurship through group loans and guidance. Five to eight women form a group and guarantee each other’s loans. If one member struggles with repayment, the others step in. This structure not only provides access to credit, but also creates mutual support and a strong network.
During regular meetings, the women share experiences and develop new skills. This increases their confidence and strengthens their economic position, both at home and beyond. A group loan means more than just capital: it gives women the space to grow, inspire others, and become more economically independent.
Will you give women in Ecuador the opportunity to earn an income independently?
Your investment
- Annual interest rate: 8%
- With an investment of €1,000, the expected total repayment is approximately €1,070
- Maturity: 18 months
- Repayments: quarterly. You will receive a repayment, including interest, every 3 months. Meaning there will be 6 repayments in total.
- Currency: Dollar. Please note that although you invest in euros, the loan is in dollars, so there is a risk of exchange rate fluctuations between dollars and euros. Visit our page on exchange rate risks for more information.
Espoir
Impact
In Ecuador, where Espoir operates, access to financing is a lifeline, especially in rural areas, where poverty affects nearly half the population and extreme poverty is alarmingly high. While financial hardship exists nationwide, rural entrepreneurs face even greater barriers to securing capital. Women, who make up the majority of Espoir’s borrowers, often have the hardest time accessing resources to grow their businesses. That’s why Espoir goes beyond microcredit, combining financial support with business education and health services across six provinces. By equipping low-income entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed, Espoir fosters long-term economic resilience and stronger communities.
- Percentage of female borrowers: 72%
- 94% of Espoir's borrowers say their quality of life improved in at least one way. Source: Survey conducted by 60dB.
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