Empowering entrepreneurs through access to capital

The entrepreneurial spirit in Northwest Arkansas is alive and thriving, but many small business owners, especially sole proprietors and aspiring entrepreneurs, still face significant barriers to accessing capital. These challenges leave countless individuals unable to turn their ideas into reality or grow their businesses. Across the U.S., a large number of people remain financially excluded, preventing them from achieving their entrepreneurial dreams.

To continue fostering a vibrant, progressive community, Northwest Arkansas needs the support and investment of local stakeholders. With a strong commitment from investors, we can ensure that our region remains a hub of innovation and opportunity.

Kiva is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to capital for entrepreneurs worldwide. Since its inception, over 4.3 million people have raised more than $1.7 billion on the Kiva platform. We believe in supporting people based on character, not credit scores, and we believe in the power of community-based lending. This approach allows us to offer funding to entrepreneurs who may not qualify for conventional loans.

What started in Uganda in 2005 expanded to the U.S. in 2009. Two years later, President Clinton launched the U.S. Kiva Hubs program, aimed at bringing the Kiva model to cities across America, providing financial support and creating opportunities for socially impactful entrepreneurs.

At Kiva, we’re proud to offer “loans that change lives,” helping entrepreneurs build the businesses of their dreams.

Kiva provides a lifeline for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs by offering loans based on character rather than credit scores. This model opens doors for those who may not qualify for traditional bank loans, ensuring that anyone with a vision has the opportunity to thrive.

With the support of local investors, Northwest Arkansas can continue to be a leader in entrepreneurship. By partnering with Kiva and expanding access to capital, the region can foster more innovation and create lasting economic opportunities for its residents.

Since its founding in 2005, Kiva has helped raise over $1.7 billion for entrepreneurs around the world. Through community-based lending, Kiva is transforming lives by providing the financial resources needed to launch and grow businesses that make a difference in their communities.