The Micro-Loan program was started in 1999 to boost the fledgling micro-enterprises of members of the Presbyterian Church in Uganda. The goal of the program is to develop responsibility and ability of member families to care for their own needs and contribute to those in need (Eph 4:28).

Over 250 loans have been granted. They now average near $350 each. Recipients are repaying their loans to a Revolving Fund administered by a national bank with branch offices. The Revolving Fnd is used to fund subsequent loans. Recipients report increased business activity that is profitable, assisting with family expenses such as food, medical care and schooling of children. Their churches report increased tithes and offerings.

The Way it Works. A recipient church will have been thoroughly trained, especially its officers, who serve as the Local Committee, essentially a loan advisory group. Local Cm receives written applications from member entrepreneurs. Those that are approved are forwarded to the Director of TMP-Uganda, who with counsel from other advisors, approves the loans as funds are available from the US or from the Revolving Fund. Recipients in a local church meet at least monthly in fellowship support with Local Cm support, and regular training updates from the TMP Trainer in Uganda. Funds are distributed to recipients as needed, not all at once. Some loans are in-kind and are repaid in-kind, particularly in rural areas that are less cash-based. Repayments of cash are taken to branches of Stambic Bank and receipts of the repayments are given to the Local Committee record keeper. Loans are without interest. A 10% loan fee is charged to offset local, field costs and some losses. Repayments are used to fund subsequent loans. US donors can be assured that their money is recycled and that as little as 10% of their contributions go administrative purposes (bank charges, mailing costs, travel, training costs, etc.) No salaries are paid.

US churches, mostly Presbyterian Church in America, are funding this program. A Board in the US and an Advisory Panel in Uganda, which is made up of church officers representing several churches, run it. All officers and representatives in both the US and Uganda are volunteers. Funds are transferred through the international Barclays Banking system of Great Britain. Reports are given to the US Board, the Executive Secretary with other volunteers visit and research the Ugandan operation and conducts training seminars on site at the recipient churches. Contributors are given a Ugandan family name to pray for.

Evangelical Presbyterian Church (PCA), Carbondale, IL is the anchor church in this mercy ministry through financial support and Board leadership. This loan program is our largest need, requiring from 20 thousand to 40 thousand dollars annually, at the current rate of project growth.

Example:

TentMaker Profile: James Yiga

James Yiga is the pastor of Nakitokolo Presbyterian Church in Uganda. Of 100 members, only a few of whom are employed. The church also runs a day school for 470 children. Pastor James received a loan of $300 (now repaid) from TMP to boost the stock of his feed and seed store.  In the photo to the left, James is weighing out some chicken feed for a customer.  Due to a 3 year drought in that area this business closed down.  James has shifted to pig production and sales.  In addition to providing an income for his family, he has set an example of responsibility for the congregation.