Project Launch: 12-31-69

In the provincial capital of Cuenca, Azuay, vice-mayor Marisol Peñaloza has a dream to create at least one community bank in all of the 21 rural parishes of the county. Community banks allow historically-excluded rural individuals access to savings, credit, and financial literacy. This serves as a foundation for small businesses, financial security and overall community growth. This project co-investment will support the creation of the first 10 community banks. Each community bank will benefit approximately 50 women members, with an overall projected impact on 5,000 women and their families.