• Building thriving communities through economic inclusion

    Lives change when underserved small and micro businesses gain access to the global economy.

Financial inclusion fuels the future

By providing women-owned and other underserved entrepreneurs with access to capital, digital skills and financial skills, Visa Foundation helps empower businesses that form the backbone of economies worldwide.

Supporting small businesses benefits everyone

When underserved entrepreneurs gain business skills, access to capital and greater chances for growth, the positive effects ripple across communities.

They’re an economic force

They’re the majority

+ 90 %

More than 9 out of 10 businesses worldwide are small businesses.

They’re job creators

+ 70 %

Small businesses provide more than half of the world’s employment.

They’re income generators

50 %

In emerging economies, small businesses create $2.50 out of every $5 in GDP.

Underserved entrepreneurs have many avenues for growth

Critical services deficit

1/3

Globally, only a third of businesses are owned by women.

Financial services disparity

70 %

Most women-owned small businesses lack adequate access to financial services.

Venture funding gap

0.03 %

For every $100 in venture capital funding, Black female founders receive just 3 cents.

Paving paths to economic mobility

Here are some of the organizations we partner with to help women-owned and other underserved small businesses transform their futures.

Headshot of Alicia Villanueva

INVESTMENTS

California Rebuilding Fund

Giving loans, advisory services and opportunity to small businesses that have historically been underserved.

INVESTMENTS

Elevar Equity

Creating more equitable access to products and services that are essential for household growth.

Impact Report

See how and where grants and investments from Visa Foundation are making a real difference.

View Impact Report
Contact Visa Foundation

More good from Visa Foundation

Humanitarian assistance

Delivering resources, support and care in times of crisis.

Explore the programs

Visa Foundation Gives

Dedicating long-term support to causes in communities where Visa employees live and work.

See more on Visa Foundation Gives

Visa Foundation Matches

Empowering Visa employees to make a bigger difference when they give.

Learn about Visa Foundation Matches