Without a doubt, one of the greatest challenges facing families living in ultrapoverty is the need for sustainable income. But starting a successful small business requires resources, training, and confidence–all of which are lacking among the poor.
To address these obstacles, ICM provides training in small business management skills, allowing participants to experiment with low-risk livelihood opportunities. We also launch savings groups that provide capital for future growth of new businesses. In 2015-16, ICM launched 965 savings groups made up of 26,553 new business owners that averaged savings of HK$597 per group after only three months.
Mary Sunshine is a young mother of three who didn't believe she could support her family. During ICM’s Transform program, Mary learned new small business skills and about the importance of saving for the future. She joined a savings group and that saved a total of US$242 in just three months. They plan to start a business selling cleaning products and will share the profits.
A gift of HK$10,000 will support 125 entrepreneurs as they learn to save strategically and invest in opportunities wisely. As March 31 approaches, please consider supporting women like Mary to confidently start a new livelihood.
