Transforming Lives Through Microfinance Around the World

The Caterpillar Foundation has been a long-time supporter of Opportunity International's microfinance programs in more than 20 countries around the world.

The Caterpillar Foundation's investment has helped Opportunity International provide life-changing micro loans to more than 75,000 small entrepreneurs, create 30,000 jobs and give more than 60,000 rural families access to basic banking services. A majority of Opportunity International's clients are women who reinvest more of their earnings into health care, education and their communities, which helps break the cycle of generational poverty.

As of July 2012, Opportunity International has four million clients, 17,600 employees, 2.3 million insurance policies and 95 percent loan repayment rate.

On a recent visit to Uganda with Opportunity International's CEO Vicki Escarra, Caterpillar Foundation Social Responsibility Manager Michele Sullivan was able to see the program in action at Mary Hill Primary School. "Spending time with the children was priceless. People are being impacted by our investments," she said in her blog from the trip. "Thomas (Mary Hill Primary School proprietor) has big dreams for his school and desires to give his students a holistic experience apart from only academics. He says he can achieve all of these plans as long as he continues to obtain financial assistance from Opportunity International."