“The uniqueness of the microfinance institutions incubated by Entrepreneurs du monde is that they truly lend to the most vulnerable, to individuals themselves and without guarantees,” explains Cécile Roy, “which provides beneficiaries with credit, thus liquidity, but also training, support, and sometimes very practical advice in agroecology, for example, as well as more social training on health or education issues. This really allows for comprehensive support and an impact that is very close to the beneficiaries.”
These businesses are incubated, meaning that Entrepreneurs du monde provides them with methodology, support, and technical assistance. But it is a 100% local team that is recruited and will develop its business.
“The approach of Entrepreneurs du monde integrates a systemic vision that is both humanistic and demanding, but above all, it gives hope and strengthens the agency of beneficiaries, especially women,” insists Cécile Roy. Women represent 84% of the people supported by the NGO. “Not that they are all great entrepreneurs at heart, but because it is the easiest way to earn a living. And because they will have a catalytic effect on the entire family. This allows for a sustainable extension of children's schooling, or sometimes to overcome an illness, a death, or an accident.”
A springboard to autonomy, rather than just aid in the strict sense. “I believe it’s a matter of ‘being with’. International solidarity is about recognizing that we are all connected. Of course, we don’t all start with the same chances in life, and joining Entrepreneurs du monde really puts this initial injustice at the forefront and acknowledges that if we provide the means to those who are the most distant, to transform their lives through small opportunities, we can gradually bridge the gap that separates us.”
