The Utopia Foundation has announced their 2009 Initiative is investment in domestic and international micro-loan programs. Micro-credit provides small loans to people that may not qualify for funding through conventional banking systems.  This financial resource allows an individual to begin, or build the capacity of a micro enterprise, thus leading to economic sustainability and independence.

Micro-loan programs are a Hand-UP rather than a Hand-OUT!

Leelanau County, Michigan Micro-loans:

The Utopia Foundation is excited to begin their first 2009 domestic pilot Group Borrowing program in rural Leelanau County, targeting agro-goods.

A unique Group Borrowing system accompanied with a strong educational component will assist in the beginning of a new micro-enterprise, or build capacity in an existing enterprise.  This is a unique system of lending that assists an individual enterprise while incorporating group learning and loan repayment responsibility. More…

The Utopia Foundation has partnered with a non-profit organization located in the rural Western Highlands of Guatemala to implement the international micro-loan program.

Utopia Foundation endorses and is invested in this unique micro-lending model that incorporates the process of Group Lending with strong, informal and formal Educational programs.  We currently provide resources to Borrowing-Groups that share in the responsibility of repayment of loans with interest, and engage in group learning.  We believe, and have witnessed, this opportunity increasing the potential of sustainable positive economic and social impact, while instilling environmental awareness. More…

Corporate Leadership and Sustainability Summit – CLASS:

CLASS provided an opportunity for business leaders (both for-profit and non-profit), managers and social entrepreneurs to learn practical methods of turning good ideas and intentions into deliverable solutions that support both corporate values and the greater good. CLASS was timely and relevant to business leaders and managers as they assume roles as bridge-builders in the search for solutions to global economic, social and environmental challenges, and gain a deeper understanding of how best business practices impact future generations.  More…