Background & Purpose

SSUS initiated its Micro-Enterprise Loan (ME) program in 2009 with the support of PKSF. This program focuses on members who have already graduated from small-scale microcredit loans and are ready to expand into larger, more profitable enterprises.

Objectives

• Promote entrepreneurship among rural poor and vulnerable families

• Provide capital support for expanding small-scale businesses

• Create local employment opportunities

• Increase production and market competitiveness

• Reduce poverty through sustainable income generation

Target Beneficiaries

• Graduated microcredit members

• Small-scale entrepreneurs

• Marginal farmers

• Women entrepreneurs

• Youth with business potential

Key Features of the Program

• Access to Larger Loans: Providing higher capital than standard microcredit

• Business Skills Training: Guidance on planning, production, and marketing

• Market Linkages: Connecting entrepreneurs with buyers and suppliers

• Monitoring & Mentorship: Continuous support for business success

• Sector Diversification: Supporting agriculture, livestock, handicrafts, retail, and service businesses

Core Activities

• Providing micro-enterprise loans to eligible members

• Organizing entrepreneurship and financial literacy workshops

• Facilitating bulk purchasing of raw materials for cost efficiency

• Creating platforms for showcasing products (trade fairs, exhibitions)

• Building partnerships with market actors for sustained growth

Achievements & Impact

• Hundreds of micro-enterprises established in rural areas

• Significant increase in household income of beneficiaries

• Empowerment of women through ownership of small businesses

• Job creation within the local community

Future Plans

• Expand the program to reach more rural entrepreneurs

• Introduce digital marketing and e-commerce training for business owners

• Establish a cooperative marketplace for SSUS-supported enterprises