In this week's Puget Sound Business Journal

I've talked before about Seattle's Global Partnerships and the amazing microlending they're doing in Central and South America.

But did you know there are microcredit programs right here in Washington State?

Take a look at this week's Puget Sound Business Journal for an article on local microcredit opportunities, including a bit on Washington CASH and their new focus on helping immigrants start and grow their businesses.

Our own Gigi Basaure is volunteering for Washington CASH and sees first-hand how the programs works. After completing an 8-week systematic program of education, participants have the opportunity to apply for a small loan. These programs are now targeting Latino, Somali and Ethiopian entrepreneurs with coaches, like Beto Yarce, who work with them in-language.

I've invited Gigi to post her experiences with the program here, to give us an inside look at how it works.

MORE THAN HALF A MILLION $$$ RAISED FOR MICROCREDIT in Central and South America

Hi - just an update to the Global Partnerships Business of Hope Luncheon. Even in our less-than-ideal economy, 1200 people showed up at the fundraiser and between them and the sponsors, the organization raised $560K to help individuals start and expand their own businesses in El Salvador, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Peru and Bolivia.

Next up for Global Partnerships? Mexico and Ecuador. At Conexión Marketing we wish them all the best in spreading prosperity!

Article detailing the event: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/opinion/2008332042_opin31lance.html

A LUNCHEON YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS

We're just one week away from the Business of Hope Luncheon, an annual fundraiser for Global Partnerships, only our very favorite local microcredit organization!

Check it out: www.globalpartnerships.org

They're busy in countries like El Salvador, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Peru and Bolivia, helping women start their own businesses, become self-sufficient, support their families and communities, and achieve their dreams through microloans. It's a proven system and has amazing results! At each annual luncheon, we get to meet another microcredit recipient whose life has changed thanks to the good works of Global Partnerships.

I urge you to check out this organization and join the luncheon Tuesday, Oct 28 at 11:30 at the Westin.