How We Work
Shared Interest mobilizes capital from impact investors and donors to provide partial credit guarantees that de-risk domestic banks and MFIs, unlocking local finance for marginalized SMEs in Africa. The model targets women, youth, and Black-led enterprises across high-impact sectors, and pairs guarantees with technical assistance to strengthen lender systems, SME capabilities as well as portfolio performance.
Our Impact Model
The new and innovative Shared Interest Partnership Model advances economic empowerment and impact by opening up financial access to the region's most promising Black entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises.
Our Innovative 5 Step Approach
1
Impact Investors provide Shared Interest with Guarantee Capital. Donors provide capital to support first loss and operating capital.
2
Shared Interest and its local program consultants source partial credit guarantee.
3
Shared Interest and lending partners identify the best credit product for the target beneficiary entrepreneur.
4
Shared Interest & Program Consultants support entrepreneurs by negotiating the best terms and providing a guarantee using the capital borrowed from investors to fund specific projects.
5
Entrepreneurs use the funds received to serve their communities, create new jobs, and scale their businesses, subsequently repaying the loan.
How We Work
What is a Guarantee?
A loan guarantee is a commitment by a third party to cover a designated percentage of the risks associated with a loan to a borrower, who does not have sufficient bank-worthy collateral.
Who Do We Guarantee?
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Small & Growing Businesses
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Smallholder Farmers & Co-ops
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Microfinance Institutions
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Low-Cost Housing & Infrastructure Providers
A guarantor is a person or entity who is obligated to pay the borrower's debt, in the event that the borrower defaults on their loan obligation. Guarantors pledge their own assets as collateral against the loans.