Welcome back to the second post in our four-part series on what Edify does and why it matters. Missed part one? Check it out here.
Today, we’ll focus on access to loan capital, a crucial factor in empowering the schools we partner with toward long-term sustainability.
At Edify, we recognize that low-fee independent schools often operate much like small businesses — managing tight budgets while striving to meet growing needs. Unexpected costs, such as building a new classroom or renovating a computer lab, can arise at any time. Without access to additional loan capital, schools may struggle to grow or even maintain operations.
Many school owners find themselves caught between the limited financing available through microfinance organizations and the inaccessibility of traditional banks. Microfinance typically offers very small loans, while commercial banks prefer larger, low-risk corporate clients, leaving a critical gap. That’s where Edify steps in. Through our lending partners, we help schools access loans ranging from $1,200 to $25,000, with repayment terms of 1 to 5 years. With competitive, at-or-below-market interest rates, schools can confidently expand and strengthen their operations by:
- Building new classrooms or purchasing land to expand capacity
- Improving infrastructure like roofs, desks, and sanitation facilities
- Creating transportation options with vehicles to safely transport students to and from school
When schools have access to capital, many powerful outcomes can follow; here are just two:
- Increased enrollment — With additional classroom space, more students are able to attend, increasing overall access to Christ-centered education.
- Better learning environments — Facilities are safer, stronger, and ready to support high-quality education.
Access to loan capital is one important element of Edify’s integrated approach to empowering Christ-centered schools around the world. Next, we’ll explore how Edify equips school proprietors and teachers through specialized training to improve sustainability and impact.
Learn more about how we empower education entrepreneurs and help create Flourishing Godly Nations at edify.org or sign up for updates at edify.org/impact-your-inbox.
