Nano Finance
Zero cost, interest free, livelihood-enabling small dollar lending programs for women and their families – Empowering Women Globally
Sustainable self-sufficiency for women through starter loans
Family and generational empowerment through income opportunities for women
Local pride through village and community centered entrepreneurship
Introducing Nano Finance
The Nano Finance (NF) program marked its initial implementation in the urban regions of the Sambalpur district, located in the state of Odisha, India, on November 9, 2007. This initiative was launched with a focused mission to support and uplift women by providing interest-free small loans ($20 or less) for their emergency, livelihood, basic health and basic education needs which they can pay back easily within a year.
Our Biswas = Women’s Empowerment
Our Biswas has been instrumental in transforming the lives of thousands of women across India, Uganda, Mexico, Nigeria, and USA. Through the NF program, the organization extends interest-free loans, each amounting to $100 or less and the pay back period is one year. There is no penalty in default. The most distinctive feature of this program is its cyclical approach: the funds repaid by recipients are subsequently made available as loans for other women. This system encapsulates the core philosophy of “Women helping Women through Nano Finance.”
Self-Sustaining Growth & Community Impact
The success of the Nano Finance program is driven by the women themselves. Our Biswas does not promote the NF program through conventional advertising; instead, the initiative grows organically as participants share their experiences through word of mouth, gradually expanding its reach into new communities. While the program is not designed to create wealth, it plays a vital role in protecting women from exploitative money lenders, thereby preventing further financial hardship. Additionally, it provides a crucial safety net and reassurance during emergencies.
Opportunities + Lasting Change
By participating in the Nano Finance program, women gain access to opportunities that enable them to earn an income, improve the quality of life for their families, and work towards realizing their aspirations. In essence, Our Biswas fosters an environment where women support one another, building stronger, more resilient communities.
Nano Finance Impact from 2007 to 2025
$309,400
Grants Provided
21,000
Women Received Loans
$896,300
Returned and Recirculated
60,400
Number of Loans Disbursed
7
Local Organization Partnerships and Collaboration
5
Countries with Nano Finance Programs
