Kiva never takes fees from lenders or borrowers. As a 501(c)(3), Kiva relies on donations, grants, and fees from certain lending partners to cover operational costs.

Kiva works with Lending Partners who share our mission of expanding financial access and creating positive social impact. Together, we help borrowers understand loan terms, make informed financial decisions, and avoid taking on more debt than they can manage.

Many Lending Partners also support borrowers through:

• Financial education: Helping borrowers manage their finances and businesses.

• Access to financial services: More than 50% of borrowers have been able to open a savings account.

• Additional support: Services such as healthcare, insurance, and business training.

Kiva also monitors loan performance, and has a 96.3% overall repayment rate across its lending network. While repayment isn't guaranteed, this rate provides transparency into how loans perform.

Before loans appear on Kiva, borrowers are screened by local Lending Partners. While the process varies by partner, it can include:

• Financial assessment: Reviewing income, expenses, and existing debt to evaluate repayment ability.

• Loan eligibility: Assessing loan requests and determining appropriate amounts.

• Community references: In some cases, considering recommendations from the borrower's community.

• Borrower verification: Kiva checks selected borrowers' identities and loan information.

Kiva also conducts rigorous due diligence and ongoing monitoring of its Lending Partners.

Kiva partners with independent research organizations like 60 Decibels to measure how loans affect borrowers' lives. In a study of more than 14,500 borrowers across 55 Kiva Lending Partners:

• 89% reported an improved quality of life.

• 87% reported increased income.

• 84% reported an improved ability to manage their finances.

These findings highlight how access to financial services can improve borrowers' livelihoods and financial stability. Learn more