Shivia Microfinance is a UK based Charity that enables the poor to create sustainable social enterprises and lift themselves out of abject poverty. All returns on given loans are immediately recycled back into Shivia's central fund so that the local populations can continue to benefit and build on their independent financial foundations.

Shivia Microfinance will implement strategic funds in grass roots communities by leveraging local and global networks, and current grassroots projects with a track record. Shivia will help both people who have never seen money before as well as facilitate individual businesses that leverage mobile and other technology for social entrepreneurship. The goal is to work with a diverse group of recipients who we have known for over ten years, initially in India and Nepal.

The grass roots microfinance partnering model will appeal to a variety of stakeholders (corporate, government, high net worth individuals, academics and schools, venture capitalists, private equity firms and not-for-profits organisations).

The team has a strong background as entrepreneurs, international development/relations experts, corporate employees, academics and working in the grassroots. We are in a strong position to bridge the corporate/ development/ community (village) worlds. We also deep understanding of technology transfer and infrastructure necessary for implementation.

Please contact us at info@shivia.com to make a donation.

Lord Mervyn Davies, Trade Minister, UK: "This deserves to succeed because of the passion and commitment the founders have for it.  It is a great cause"