THE SITUATION
In a country where free markets are discouraged, financial opportunity is mostly available through allegiance to the party and its leaders.But Cuba wasn’t always this way. Before the rise of Communism, the Cuban worker understood and embraced the free market mentality. People understood the fruits of their labors didn’t just improve their own lives, but the lives of others in surrounding communities. It can be so again. But getting there begins with education and investment in Cuba’s entrepreneurs once again.
THE SOLUTION
The Microcredits program from FHR Cuba provides Cuban citizens with an opportunity to experience what life can be like in a society of economic independence from government control. Interested citizens can apply from a local program coordinator for a business loan.These loans are available to Cuban citizens with zero interest and a flexible repayment schedule. By providing a means for starting a business, Cubans now have an opportunity to chase their personal dreams and secure a better life for themselves and their family.
- 1-Application Process
- Interested Cuban entrepreneurs fill out a simple application, which is then submitted for review by a committee in the United States. Candidates are screened based on the following criteria:
- Reputation as a decent, ethical person that honors his/her commitments.
- Evidence of commitment to their business plan.
- A commitment to economic activism in their community (no government involvement).
- Experience in their industry area.
- 2-Loan Distribution
- Once candidates are selected, FHR Cuba issues a loan between $100-$600 USD to spend on basic tools and supplies necessary to start their business.
- Each month, reports must be filed by the entrepreneur with a local coordinator, who then sends the information back to the oversight committee in the United States.
- When the loan is repaid, those funds are then recycled back into the community by using them to find another Microcredits program applicant!.
THE IMPACT
Enterprises that have sprung up across the island thanks to this programs include hair salons, seamstress shops, farms (both livestock and agricultural). The FHRC has had a Microcredit program since 2016 where we achieved economic independence for more than ten thousand people. Today we have 44 in operation without charging interest, and with a high demand within the population.Businesses created with this program generate employment, provide resources to the local community and promote entrepreneurship.
1,240
Loans
13,640
People Benefited by Loans
99.6%
Reimbursement Percentage
HOW YOU CAN HELP
Our microcredit program has been a great success inside of Cuba. Presently we provide financing for approximately 50 farmers and housewives and we have a long list of applicants waiting for financing. With your support, we can continue to promote free market