Fundación para el Desarrollo de Nueva Segovia(FUNDENUSE) Ocotal, Nicaragua Fundenus@ibw.com.ni # of clients: 8,373 % women: 60% Outstanding Loans: US$ 3,988,794 Staff: 17 Founded: 1993 Director: Abelardo Pérez Diaz Microcredit Programs: Founded in the aftermath of Nicaragua's decade-long civil war, FUNDENUSE offers two programs to microenterprises. Fledgling entrepreneurs with little or no credit history can receive $100-200 loans as a part of 3-11 member solidarity groups. Borrowers receive business management training during the six-month loan period. Once the initial loans are repaid, borrowers are eligible for larger loans for expansion. FUNDENUSE also provides loans on an individual basis to clients with more established businesses and credit histories. These clients also benefit from the technical expertise of FUNDENUSE's small business consultants. Results: With an average loan of $295 about 60% of the clientele are women, and most live in rural areas where credit and financial services are extremely hard to access. The income derived from these businesses improves the diets of the owners and their families and provides funds for education and better housing. << Back to map