Social Issue

After the breakup of the Soviet Union, unemployment in Armenia skyrocketed and many people found themselves without income and forced to create their own businesses to survive.

Our Response

Microloans are a powerful tool to promote any small-scale productive activity and help farmers to be more productive.

SEF International was created in 1998 by World Vision International (WVI) to grant loans to small entrepreneurs so that they could develop their businesses. It also offers credit services focused on rural areas to give more opportunities to these poor communities and to improve the quality of life of the children of Armenia.

In 2018, SEF International has a strong presence in rural areas (85% of its portfolio) and stands out for the volume of loans that offers to its clients ($940, while the average stands at more than 4,000). SEF innovated as it was the first microfinance institution to offer loans to increase energy efficiency, in addition to giving credits to micro startups through KIVA. They have also been pioneers in offering loans through a digital platform in which payments are made with mobile transactions, thanks to the collaboration with Mobidram.

Expected Social Impact

With this investment of the Netri Foundation, it is estimated that SEF will be able to provide 300 microloans, with the idea of empowering rural communities in Armenia.