8th Grade International Microfinanciers

This year's NFTE class decided to use some of the profits of The Key Store to contribute to the entrepreneurial efforts of others. Microfinanciers make small loans to people who are seeking a loan amount "too small" for banks. KIVA is an international organization that serves as a clearing house for international loans. After research, presentations and a vote, the group initially elected to finance Srey, a Cambodian fisherwoman; however, she was funded the same day. Two other entrepreneurial businesses have been loaned $100.00 each.

Meet Naimdjon Domulodjanov from Tajikistan. Although only 21, he's been in the cell phone business for two years. In countries without a solid infrastructure there are far more cell phones than land-lines. Naimdjon seeks to expand his business because he hopes to marry soon. Naimdjon intends to repay the loan within a year.

Meet Ndèye GADIAGA and Omou Khairy KA from the democratic country of Senegal on the west coast of Africa. Most people in their country live well below the poverty line, so used clothing is how people can afford to dress well. Ndeye and Omou want to increase their inventory to suit their customers' needs and intend to repay their loan within a year, too.