Right Sharing of World Resources offers training, support, and financial grants to small, grassroots women’s groups that do not have access to other adequate support and funding. In Guatemala, Kenya and Sierra Leone,
RSWR partners with the grassroots women’s groups directly. In India, RSWR partners with local, grassroots NGOs that help organize, train and support the women.
RSWR offers two different programs in each country:
PREPARING THE SOIL– Small, grassroots NGOs in India and independent self-help groups in Guatemala, Kenya, and Sierra Leone are invited to apply for a FREE training program with local RSWR Country Coordinators. Training, a savings plan, and effective group management are essential ingredients for the success of a group. RSWR Country Coordinators help groups develop an effective leadership structure, group management practices, and a group savings plan. The women’s groups are also trained in best business practices and revolving loan funds.
PLANTING THE SEEDS -- Groups that have completed the RSWR PREPARING THE SOIL program are eligible to apply for a financial grant of up to US $6,500 for an independent women’s self-help group in Guatemala, Kenya and Sierra Leone, or up to $7,500 for an NGO in India. Unfortunately grant funds are limited, so some groups that apply may not be chosen to participate. Groups that are chosen for the PLANTING THE SEEDS program and receive a grant will establish a revolving loan fund. This fund is to make loans to members of the group so that they can begin or expand a small business. Borrowers are expected to pay back their loans to the group, with a reasonable interest rate. This allows the group to loan funds to others. The money will continue to be recycled and the revolving loan fund will hopefully grow over time.
PLANTING THE SEEDS is a 3-year RSWR partnership program that includes technical training and supportive monitoring for three years following the receipt of the grant. After 18 months, partner groups can apply for another grant of up to $3,000 to expand and enhance their project.
The need is great and Right Sharing’s capacity is limited. There are not sufficient funds for everyone to be accepted into these programs. Not all groups will be accepted.
If your group is interested in becoming a RSWR partner, please find the application for the initial PREPARING THE SOIL program for your country here.
