tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14291240.post6944231235793399090..comments2008-05-28T18:58:33.454-07:00Dave Richardsnoreply@blogger.comBlogger3125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14291240.post-29934352600167555392008-05-28T18:58:00.000-07:002008-05-28T18:58:00.000-07:00The Draper Richards Foundation (http://www.draperrichards.org/) is another funding source. Fellowships are unrestricted funds to U.S.-based organizations at the beginning of their development (i.e., earned 501(c)(3) status less than three years ago). The foundation receives and reviews applications throughout the year and award grants throughout the year based on (1) creativity, (2) entrepreneurship, (3) collaboration, and (4) principles.Ryan Gundersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00281520412017577166noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14291240.post-10326241117324423682008-04-19T09:25:00.000-07:002008-04-19T09:25:00.000-07:00David,<BR/>I make small loans via KIVA.ORG.<BR/><BR/>However, after reading Prof. Yunus Mohammed's book describing Grameen/Danone partnership to make Yogurt - as a "Not for Profit" business model - I would like to propose the following: <BR/><BR/>If 1,000 individuals "loan" $500 each to such a "Not for Profit" business and partner with GRAMEEN or similar organization who will start a business. The business' first payoff is to the individual loans that would get paid over 3-5 years, and then the business continues.<BR/><BR/>My proposal would allow many individuals to make a difference, not just venture capitalists/big doners, etc. Also, it's a loan, not a donation...Rameshhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02266693753526976846noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14291240.post-25349983715254076282008-04-18T10:22:00.000-07:002008-04-18T10:22:00.000-07:00David,<BR/><BR/>I actually wrote a post on this very issue some time back, and focused on the inability of microfinance to actually create jobs. I actually view microfinance clients as potential guinea pigs for transformation into SMEs and that we should be focused on trying to scale up more of them even if it means that many will fail. You can read the entire post here (http://thinkchangeindia.wordpress.com/2008/03/26/op-ed-microfinance-revisited-and-its-role-in-reaching-the-missing-middle/).<BR/><BR/>If you enjoy this piece, I encourage you to post it for your readers and to check ThinkChange India out in the future as well.<BR/><BR/>Best,<BR/><BR/>VinayVinay Gantihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04230102505390147403noreply@blogger.com