SPBD Solomon Islands Celebrates Milestone of USD $6 Million Crowdfunded through Kiva Partnership

South Pacific Business Development (SPBD) Solomon Islands, in partnership with Kiva, is proud to announce a major milestone: USD $6 million has now been crowdfunded by Kiva lenders to support micro-entrepreneurs across the Solomon Islands.

This achievement highlights the shared commitment of SPBD and Kiva to advancing economic empowerment for women and underserved communities throughout the South Pacific.

Through this global crowdfunding partnership, thousands of individuals around the world have contributed to SPBD Solomon Islands’ loan portfolio—providing small, affordable loans that help women start and grow businesses, invest in their families, and build more stable and resilient communities, something clearly reflected in the journey of women like Noelyn.

Noelyn, a 55-year-old married mother of six from Stone-field, received the milestone loan of USD $1,675.00 (SBD $14,100.00) to support her small shop. She has worked hard over the years to provide for her family, and her business has become an important source of income for her household and her community.

Noelyn joined SPBD in 2022 to access financial services that traditional banks could not provide, giving her the opportunity to expand her inventory and offer a wider range of goods to her customers.

With this latest loan, she plans to purchase consumable goods and household items to strengthen her shop’s stock and attract more customers, ultimately increasing her income. By growing her business, Noelyn aims to improve her family’s quality of life and create a more secure future for her children.

 “Loan blo mi helpem mi fo expandem stoa blo mi mo givem moa choices lo ol customer,” she said. “Mi grateful lo SPBD and Kiva fo supportim mi fo growim bisnes blo mi. Opportunity ia hemi mekem mifala ol woman lo Solomon Islands save stand-up strong and duim something fo future blo famili.”

“Kiva is delighted to celebrate this milestone with SPBD Solomon Islands,” said Mark McDonagh, Investment Manager for the Asia Pacific Region at Kiva.

“Since 2015, SPBD Solomon Islands has been a trusted lending partner, consistently demonstrating responsible lending practices and deep commitment to financial inclusion. Reaching $6 million raised on Kiva’s platform is the result of SPBD’s strong fieldwork combined with the generosity of lenders globally who believe in empowering hardworking women in the Solomon Islands. We look forward to continuing this partnership and setting even more ambitious goals for the years ahead.”

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued generosity of the Kiva community,” said Raymond McCarthy, General Manager of SPBD Solomon Islands.

“This $6 million milestone underscores the profound impact that microloans—averaging just over USD $700—can have on a woman’s life here in the Solomon Islands. These funds help families build better futures, strengthen communities, and support sustainable economic growth.”

SPBD’s Impact in the Solomon Islands

• Economic Empowerment: SPBD Solomon Islands has provided micro-loans that enable local women entrepreneurs to start or expand small businesses, increasing their income and financial security. There are over 6,500 current members in the SPBD program across the Solomon Islands.
• Community Upliftment: Through its loans and training programs, SPBD has helped women become financially literate, resilient, and active contributors to their communities’ economies. SPBD Solomon Islands serves over 121 communities with an SPBD team member visiting each Centre.
• Sustainable Growth: The partnership with Kiva has ensured that SPBD Solomon Islands can deliver on its commitment to making financial services accessible, affordable, and impactful. Since SPBD Solomon Islands founding in 2012, SPBD SI has disbursed over 37,000 loans valued over USD $25 million. The Kiva partnership has directly funded over 20% of all lending by SPBD Solomon Islands since our founding.

As SPBD Solomon Islands continues its mission to provide life-changing opportunities, the organization remains grateful to all Kiva lenders who make this transformative work possible.

Reposted from: https://www.sibconline.com.sb/spbd-solomon-islands-celebrates-milestone-of-usd-6-million-crowdfunded-through-kiva-partnership/