World Vision's small business loans program is helping thousands of poor entrepreneurs work their way out of poverty.

As many as 1.2 billion people live on less than $1 a day. Almost all lack the training, education, or opportunities needed to support their families and contribute to the local economy.

Through its microenterprise development program, World Vision provides credit, business coaching, and access to markets. This enables the poor to participate in the marketplace and work their way to a better life.

Cristina's Clothing Business
Cristina Gulgenidze, of Batumi, West Georgia, has run her small clothing business for three years. The money she earns is barely enough to cover the expenses of her husband, Dato, a stay-at-home dad, and their six-year-old son, David.

Years of political and economic turbulence have damaged this former Soviet republic and many of Cristina's friends are struggling to find employment.

Through World Vision's microenterprise development program, Cristina was able to get a loan to expand her business and increase her stock. Her improved sales are enabling her to provide for her family as well as save for the future.

In the near future, Cristina says she hopes to employ another person so that she can spend more time at home with her son.

Click here to learn how the microenterprise development program works.