How do your loans work?

Color Me In gives small loans of $500-$3,000 USD to help Community Based Organizations begin or expand small businesses or IGA's (Income Generating Activities). In the past we have allowed clients to repay up to 80% of their debt by planting trees, one tree per $1 borrowed. The other 20% was paid in cash and forwarded to another project within the local area. 

Currently, CMI is moving away from the model above and will be approving loans which are due back in cash at 5%-10% annual interest rate. Why? Because while we want to keep the commitment to the environment and still plant trees, it is unsustainable for us as an organization to give money away on a continual basis. The money repaid from the loans will go towards new projects and loans in Zambia so that we can continue work even if donors are not giving. 

We work with a combination of tribal, community and government leadership to help implement and monitor the loans. Payment IS due (this is not a grant), and we will work with you to develop the skills necessary to increase your chances of success as a group and as a business. 

Why aren't you accepting applications right now?

 CMI simply does not have the money. We are focusing on fundraising and will be in Zambia for 5 months doing an analysis of what is going well, what is not, and what to change. As soon as the funds and structure are there, we will begin accepting new applications. 

How can I get in touch with you?

The best way to get in touch is via email (see Contact page). We will get back in touch with you as soon as we are able. 

Do you have more questions? Leave your questions below in the

comment box and we will add them to the FAQ page!