They provide small loans and training to people starting up or expanding a small business. No collateral is required, but each client must have a sound simple business plan and character references. Training in basic business skills is provided and each client is regularly visited at home. Several programmes encourage clients to save and access credit in groups, following the phenomenally successful model of the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh. Opportunity partner agencies, which are autonomous organisations run by local staff, support businesses from street vendors, bicycle repairs and tailoring to small-scale manufacturing and agriculture.
Clients enjoy the dignity of supporting themselves and their families through their own work.