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1. What kind of information will the Kiva reviewers look for?

Kiva borrowers need to clear a few basic financial thresholds, such as debt : income ratio, as well as provide proof of their business.

Reviewers also may check to see if applicants have been endorsed by a Kiva Trustee, made a loan to another Kiva borrower, or have an online presence for their business - but these are not requirements to be eligible. 

2. What are the eligibility requirements?

• Age 18 or older
• Using the loan funds for business purposes
• Located in the USA
• Not in active foreclosure or bankruptcy
• Has social capital - a network of a few supporters willing to contribute to your private fundraising phase

3. What can Kiva funds be used for?

Kiva loans can be used for any business-related expense, including but not limited to:

• Buying equipment
• Upgrading your space
• Hiring employees
• Working capital

4. How can I be successful on the Kiva platform?

• Brush up on your tech skills
• Consider how your business could be impacted by a small loan
• Upload a good profile picture and loan statement to your profile
• Work with a Kiva Trustee team
• Have a strong network of supporters
• Be willing to climb the capital ladder and repay your loan on time

For more helpful advice and counseling, visit CCI's Kiva Hub page!

5. How can my institution get involved with Kiva?

Institutions can become Kiva Trustees and endorse loan campaigns of their choosing! Large organizations can even set up loan matching for the campaigns they endorse.

Trustees and lenders can also join lending teams: self-organized groups that rally around shared lending goals. 

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1. How much will the program cost?

All fees are already paid in full - the program is free of cost!

2. Who is eligible to apply?

Artists at any stage of their career who:

• Live and/or work in Durham County  
• Can provide an example or written description of their recent work

3. How will I access the online course?

You will need reliable internet access and a device with a microphone, speakers, and camera (such as a laptop, smartphone, or tablet) to access the online course via Facebook. If you are accepted to the program, more information will be sent to you.

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1. What are the requirements to participate in MFA for Microenterprise?

• Business is a microenterprise - which means the business has 5 employees or fewer.
• Business is a currently operating, for-profit businesses. This includes sole proprietorships, independent contractors, and home-based businesses.
• Located within Durham city or county limits. 
• Must meet low-to-moderate income standards as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Learn more here.

2. What will I learn as a participant of MFA for Microenterprise?

• Recordkeeping and cash flow reporting
• Tax planning methods
• Financial management practices and financial planning
• Business profit and loss projection
• The ins and outs of accounting systems such as Quickbooks Online
• How to improve the overall financial health of your business

In addition to all these skills, your instructors can also provide one-on-one advising so that you can ask questions specific to your business.

3. What day and time are the program sessions?

The program will run for four weeks, from October 18 - November 10. Each week during this time period, the class will meet virtually on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, from 8am - 10am.