This charity means business

Visitors to the Lendwithcare website can see pictures of both women, their financial goals and how much has been donated to their causes so far, before deciding whether to contribute at the click of a button.

Care Australia said many women around the world can’t access the money and support they need to start or grow their businesses.

This is because firms owned by women tend to be smaller than those owned by men, meaning women are often left with few options when financial times get tough.

CARE Australia CEO Peter Walton said microloans give hope and can transform lives, especially the lives of women and children.

“Lendwithcare is also about solidarity,” said Mr Walton.

“It is a platform rallying Australians to make a direct impact on the lives of people who often don't have access to the hand up that they need to support their families.

“Microfinance empowers those who may otherwise be disenfranchised.”

Mr Walton said as part of an international confederation, CARE Australia is uniquely positioned to be the bridge between capital in hand, and the communities CARE works with around the world who need additional support.

"Lendwithcare creates a virtuous cycle of empowerment and opportunity,” said Mr Walton.

“Borrowers gain the means to support themselves and empower their communities.

“Lenders, in turn, experience the satisfaction of seeing their initial loan not only transform one life, but also continuously multiply its impact when re-lent to more and more deserving individuals."

Lendwithcare ambassador and businesswoman Naomi Simson said there was an estimated $1.7 trillion financing gap for female entrepreneurs in low-and middle-income countries.

“Lendwithcare will seek to change this and provide an amazing opportunity for Australians to help make a real and positive impact.”