KIVA -www.kiva.org

Most of the things we hear about the internet are either bad or stupid. Pornography, phishing, junk mail and inanities like You Tube dominate the presence of the internet in our lives. However, someone finally figured out something that the internet can really do to make this world a better place and that’s Kiva. Kiva is “loans that change lives” and is a website that enables anyone, with any amount of money to give to make a difference in the world.

From their website:

We let you loan to the working poor

Kiva lets you connect with and loan money to unique small businesses in the developing world. By choosing a business on Kiva.org, you can “sponsor a business” and help the world’s working poor make great strides towards economic independence. Throughout the course of the loan (usually 6-12 months), you can receive email journal updates from the business you’ve sponsored. As loans are repaid, you get your loan money back.

We partner with organizations all over the world

Kiva partners with existing microfinance institutions. In doing so, we gain access to outstanding entrepreneurs from impoverished communities world-wide. Our partners are experts in choosing qualified borrowers. That said, they are usually short on funds. Through Kiva.org, our partners upload their borrower profiles directly to the site so you can lend to them.

Take a minute of your life to visit Kiva and make a difference in the world you live in.