$14M in loans and growing
SPBD Microfinance (Vanuatu) Ltd. began operation in April 2017. It is the fifth entity in our network of microfinance institutions in the region following the success of SPBD Samoa (2000), SPBD Tonga (2009), SPBD Fiji (2010) and SPBD Solomon Islands (2012). SPBD has disbursed 24,000 loans worth almost $14M USD in Vanuatu.
Why Vanuatu?
The Republic of Vanuatu is ranked 140 out of 190 countries in the 2021 Human Development Index (HDI). With a $2,800 USD GDP per capita, it is listed as one of the United Nations Least Developed Nations. Similarly, 65% of the population does not have access to electricity.
SPBD Vanuatu by the numbers
US $13.7M
Value of loans disbursed
since inception
24,000
Number of loans made to hard-working women since inception
9,400
Number of
savings accounts
4,300
Number of
loans outstanding
When disaster strikes, SPBD’s ability to access and mobilize to remote areas makes our team an effective relief organization. In March 2023, Vanuatu was hit by twin cyclones. Nearly 80% of the country was impacted. Thanks to a grant from MicroDreams ($550,000 NZD/ $350,000 USD), we distributed 2,272 relief kits to our clients containing food staples and a cash component of $130 NZD (to purchase necessities like diapers or medicine).
About Vanuatu
Vanuatu has perhaps the lowest formal-sector employment in the region at 15%. In the rural economy, where about 70% of the population find their livelihoods, only about 10% of the workforce is in formal employment. Most of the ni-Vanuatu living in rural areas are engaged in subsistence agriculture. There are three banks in Vanuatu: Australia New Zealand (ANZ), Bank South Pacific (BSP) and the National Bank of Vanuatu. ANZ is headquartered in Australia while BSP is headquartered in Papua New Guinea. Port Vila serves as the Vanuatu headquarters for all three banks.
Latest News
SPBD Recognises Women Creating Wave of Change Across Fiji
The celebration of the 15th South Pacific Business Development Businesswoman of the Year awards and Foundation Day media launch is not just a celebration, it is a movement that shines a spotlight on the extraordinary power of women entrepreneurs, and visionaries who are making a macro impact not only in their businesses but in their […]
SPBD Vanuatu Reaches VT2 Billion Microloan Milestone
South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) Vanuatu celebrated a major milestone this week at Saralana Park, marking the disbursement of over VT2 billion in microfinance loans to women entrepreneurs across the country. The event reflects the organisation’s commitment to empowering women through financial inclusion and entrepreneurship. Speaking at the event, SPBD Microfinance Network Founder and President, […]
SPBD Microfinance Tonga Reaches TOP $250 Million Loans Milestone
SPBD Microfinance, the leading microfinance network dedicated to empowering women microentrepreneurs across the South Pacific. SPBD Microfinance (Tonga) Ltd proudly announces a significant milestone in its journey. The organization has disbursed a total of TOP $250 million in loans since its inception in 2009, evidence of its commitment to fostering economic development in the country. Founded with a vision to create […]
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