What is Economic Empowerment?
Christian Economic EMpowerment
The God-honoring process of equipping individuals—especially the disadvantaged—with the skills, knowledge, and wisdom to steward resources well. Rooted in the belief that all people are made in God’s image, it enables them to achieve self-sufficiency, make wise financial decisions, and bless their families and communities. This empowerment fosters justice, dignity, and faithful participation in economic life, all for the glory of God.
Joyce Banda, Past President of Malawi
“I made up my mind at that point that I was going to spend the rest of my life assisting women and youth to gain social and political empowerment through business and education. I convinced myself economic empowerment of women was going to be key, especially in a country like this where most women didn’t go to school.”
This is Life changing
Want to learn more?
WHo Benifits?
Vocational Training Center graduates—certified in skills like tailoring, carpentry, and jewelry-making—are prepared to start businesses, create jobs, and give back to their communities.
Sponsored women with business potential are eager to support their families and pay for their children’s education through hard work in gardening, baking, weaving, or running small shops.
Village Savings and Loans (VSLs) offer startup loans and financial training to members, helping launch businesses. As loans are repaid, members share in the interest earned, creating shared success and strengthening the whole community.
How does it work?
With donor support, Y-Malawi funds half the startup cost for approved applicants and matches that amount with a grant to the local VSL, which then loans the remaining balance. As loans are repaid, VSLs become self-sustaining. Grant recipients “give back” with products that help lower Y-Malawi’s operating costs. A Loan Officer provides oversight, approves loans, and supports both applicants and VSLs through business planning and startup.
How can you help?
Every gift to the Y-Malawi Economic Empowerment Fund—big or small—helps launch life-changing business grants.
As a valued supporter, you’ll receive a personalized quarterly impact report, sharing how your donation is being used, the success stories you’ve made possible, and the economic transformation happening in communities.
This is Life change
Grace has a new sewing business. She is supporting herself by making backpacks for school children.
This is Life change
Tulaya and her husband are growing rice that Y-Malawi will use to feed the hungry.
