Because many Cambodians in rural areas rely on income from crops, they often need to borrow money to survive until harvest time – usually with outrageous rates like 5% per month! Unable to repay the loans, they then lose the farmland they used as collateral, leaving them with no way to make any income at all.

Making small loans available with reasonable rates (3% per year) is another method used by Cambodia Impact to help break the poverty cycle that is so prevalent in Cambodia. Often, a start up loan enables parents to stay with their families and earn a decent income instead of leaving the country to look for work.

When local pastors in Battambang come across someone in their congregations who has a marketable skill or experience but no start up capital, Cambodia Impact provides a loan to get them started. The loans are usually between $500 and $2,500 and are paid back in monthly installments.  Pastors meet regularly with the new entrepreneurs to work on their business plan and personal development. This relationship building leads to discipleship opportunities and the chance to share the love of Jesus.

Currently Cambodia Impact has loans in place for a sewing business, a motorbike repair shop, a breakfast cart, a duck farm and a motorbike taxi. Our objective is to be ready to provide a loan to the next eligible recipient that God brings across our path.