In the Dang district of midwestern Nepal, Devi has successfully doubled her monthly income after receiving a small business loan through ServLife’s microfinance program.

Devi comes from a marginalized Dalit community, a group that has historically faced systemic discrimination, social exclusion, and severe economic hardship. With her husband currently working abroad, Devi is the primary caretaker for their three children. Prior to receiving the loan, she often had to borrow money just to meet basic household needs.

ServLife’s microfinance program provides equitable small business loans to families living in extreme poverty. These loans typically range from $200 to $300 and are designed to be paid off over 12 months. Four months ago, Devi received a microloan and invested the funds entirely into her small local shop, expanding her inventory with essential goods needed by her community.

Her daily earnings steadily increased, and she has more than doubled her previous income. This rapid growth aligns with the program’s broader impact, where participating families see an average 250% increase in their household income in only one year.

The business profits now sustain her family’s daily kitchen expenses and ensure her youngest son, currently in the fourth grade, has the support he needs to attend school. Additionally, Devi used her increased earnings to purchase a water buffalo, creating a secondary source of livelihood for her family.

Devi currently manages the shop and household independently and has plans to expand her business even further. Today, she stands as a powerful inspiration to other people in her village, showing them firsthand how it is possible to successfully grow a business, increase their income, and build a more stable future.