Through Misgana Ministries’ involvement in the local community, opportunities have been presented to assist Ethiopian entrepreneurs with loans as they seek to begin or expand their small businesses.

When men and women of their own initiative generate creative business ideas, they generally work harder at it and have a higher rate of success.

Some success stories we have been involved with include:

• A woman who began making injera (the traditional Ethiopian bread) in her home and selling it to the school now works regularly at the school. The outlet for her injera is guaranteed and she now has become self-sufficient.
• A farmer received a loan to purchase a donkey and cart to bring in his crops. Prior to the loan, he rented a donkey and cart every year; however, he paid a premium during the busy harvest time and sometimes struggled to find an available donkey/cart team. Not only will he now be able to bring in his own crops, but he can then re-sell the donkey during the busy time at a profit. This will allow him to pay off the loan with some money to spare.
• A boat owner needed a new motor to ferry tourists to the islands of Lake Ziway and take visitors to see the hippos in the lake. His loan enabled him to buy a new motor and continue to operate his business.
• A shop owner obtained a small loan to expand the inventory of her store. With the additional stock she is better able to serve her customers and increase her profits.