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Some Flint entrepreneurs are getting a helping hand

Small Flint entrepreneurs are getting a boost from a new micro-lending program.

The group, KIVA.org, uses its website to link small business owners with individuals willing to loan them a small amount of money to get their business started.

Elizabeth Garlow is with Michigan Corps.   She says the future success of the KIVA Flint program depends on local people getting involved.

“It really will depend on how quickly the community rallies around this initiative…and takes action to go and nominate an entrepreneur and lend to them,” says Garlow.

People can donate as little as $25 dollars to a small business startup on KIVA’s website.  As the money adds up, it will allow the small business to grow. 

Garlow hopes other Michigan cities will start similar micro-lending programs.

KIVA launched a similar program in Detroit in 2011.

https://zip.kiva.org/trustees/395

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.
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