Naney, Incorporated

NANEY groups, anywhere from 20-100 people, generally women, save a minimum of $10 each over a year. In Niger, the annual per capital income is about $1000. Saving $10 over a year in Niger is like saving $600 in a year in the US. It is reasonable but also significant.

Once the group – and the individual – has proven their ability to work together and save through the savings activity, NANEY provides two starter investments to each individual, managed in the group. A $40 sheep loan and a $40 peanut loan.

These two loans provide a minimum return on investment of 100% for each individual (meaning that for a $40 loan they generate at least $80 of revenue) in the first year. The loans are structured to be self-perpetuating, generating capital for the group and allowing new individuals to join. NANEY’s initial investment in a community will double in value in 5 years and that capital stays in the group and in the community. Once additional capital is generated, it can be used to fund other projects of importance or value to the community.