Small loans. Collective action. Big possibilities.
Many entrepreneurs simply don't have networks that include people who can write big checks. And for many, financial trauma makes it hard to ask for help, let alone ask for money. That isn't a lack of vision or drive. It's a gap in access.
At the Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL), we believe community is capital. Through our Capital Circles initiative, we bring people together to open doors to capital, and our partnership with Kiva gives that community a simple way to act.
Here's the idea: a Kiva loan can start at just $25. On its own, that's a modest gift. Together, it adds up fast. 200 people contributing $25 each can fund a $5,000 loan. No single person has to carry it, and every contribution counts. When the loan is repaid, the capital is available to redeploy.
Right now, six entrepreneurs in our network are raising capital through Kiva. Meet them, and see how you can help move them forward.
Meet the Entrepreneurs
Alana founded Kinkz Hair Products to help women embrace their natural hair with confidence. Inspired by her own natural hair journey, she designed hair accessories that make styling easier while protecting and celebrating curls. Demand is growing. With community support, Alana can expand her inventory, reach more customers, and keep building her brand. Support Alana's campaign.
Marion founded Heir Brand, a consumer products business working at the intersection of beauty and wellness. Its flagship product, VESL WTR, is an unflavored water beverage made with added nutrients, and it's getting ready to reach wellness studios, spas, fitness spaces, and select retailers. Every new brand needs people who believe in it early. Back Marion's campaign.
Shantel co-founded SheIgnite Society, a community that helps women build economic mobility through connection, financial education, professional development, and accountability. When you back SheIgnite, you're investing in a network that helps many women move forward. Support Shantel's campaign.
Waliyyah is the founder of Handmade Amazingness LLC, and her campaign is an open invitation to join her journey. Learn more about her business and see what your $25 can help make possible. Support Waliyyah's campaign.
Regina founded Soul Scent, a luxury candle and home fragrance brand rooted in self-expression, self-care, and community. It began as a creative hobby with her daughter and has grown into a business that brings people together. Beyond its products, Soul Scent hosts candle-making workshops and wellness-centered gatherings. Regina is already building community through her business. Help her build it further. Back Regina's campaign.
Dawn is the founder of Repay Wisely, LLC. Learn more about her business, support her campaign, and help create room for continued growth. Back Dawn's campaign.
What $25 Can Do
Each of these campaigns grows the same way: one supporter, then another, then another. Your $25 joins the contributions of many others, and together they help fund inventory, expand operations, reach new customers, and push business goals forward. This is what community-powered capital looks like.
Together, let's unlock more capital for more entrepreneurs in more communities. Support a campaign, share it with your community.
