Sapphire Fund
Empowering Vulnerable Women Entrepreneurs.
Sapphire Fund, a branch of the Sapphire Africa Foundation, is dedicated to empowering vulnerable women entrepreneurs by providing them with the financial support needed to start and grow their own businesses. Recognizing the importance of self-sustainability and economic independence, Sapphire Fund offers interest-free revolving loans to women who have viable business ideas but lack the necessary capital. This initiative aims to reduce dependency on donations, foster long-term economic growth, and improve the quality of life for women and their families in the community.
The primary beneficiaries of Sapphire Fund are vulnerable women, including single mothers, youth, and economically disadvantaged parents, who have viable business ideas but lack access to traditional financing. Many women in the community possess the skills and ideas needed to start successful businesses but are hindered by a lack of financial resources. Traditional lending institutions often impose high-interest rates and require collateral, which these women cannot afford. Sapphire Fund addresses this gap by providing interest-free loans, enabling these women to realize their entrepreneurial potential.
Mission Statement
To empower vulnerable women entrepreneurs with the financial resources and support necessary to start and grow sustainable businesses, thereby fostering economic independence and reducing poverty in our community.
Business Model
Funding Mechanism
Sapphire Fund operates as a revolving fund, where loans are provided to women entrepreneurs with the expectation of repayment without interest. The repaid funds are then reinvested into the fund to support additional women, creating a sustainable cycle of financial support.
Loan Disbursement
Women apply for funding by submitting their business ideas and plans.
The applications are reviewed by a panel of experts at Sapphire Africa Foundation who assess the viability of the business proposals.
Approved applicants receive the funds needed to start or expand their businesses.
The fund disbursement is accompanied by ongoing monitoring and support to ensure the successful use of the funds.
Business Support Services
Training, Beneficiaries receive training in financial management, business planning, and marketing to ensure they are equipped to run successful businesses.
Mentorship, Experienced business owners and professionals provide mentorship to guide the women through the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Monitoring, Sapphire Africa Foundation monitors the progress of each business, offering additional support as needed to ensure positive outcomes.
Funding and Sustainability
Initial Funding
To expand and sustain Sapphire Fund, we seek partnerships with donors, organizations, and individuals who share our commitment to economic empowerment and poverty reduction.
Sustainability Plan
The revolving nature of the fund ensures that it remains self-sustaining. As loans are repaid, the funds are reinvested in new businesses, allowing the initiative to continue supporting women entrepreneurs over the long term.
Objectives
- Provide financial support to women entrepreneurs through interest-free revolving loans.
- The school is to be a light in aMonitor and support the effective use of funds to ensure successful business outcomes.
- Foster a culture of entrepreneurship and self-reliance among women in the community.
- Reduce dependency on external donations by promoting sustainable business practices.
- Reduce dependency on external donations by promoting sustainable business practices.
- Sapphire Fund
Success Stories
Over the years, Sapphire Fund has successfully supported businesses in various sectors, including tailoring, restaurants, salons, and cleaning services. These businesses have thrived, providing stable incomes for the women involved and contributing to the economic development of the community.