Summary

Windmill Microlending is a registered charity serving newcomers to Canada since 2005. Windmill provides microloans of up to $15,000 to skilled immigrants and refugees so they can succeed in their careers. We support clients to obtain the Canadian licensing or training required to work in their field, or to secure a position which matches their level of education, skills, and experience.

Investment Thesis

With over $60M in approved loans, Windmill is Canada’s largest and most successful micro-lending program for immigrants and refugees. Windmill’s crucial work with their target population continues to significantly increase incomes and decrease the likelihood of unemployment from 42% to 8%. During 2020-2021, their client base increased in two important provinces: by 208% in Québec and by 20% in British Columbia. This expansion in demand signifies Windmill’s trajectory for growth and potential for investment.

Refugee Impact

Windmill Microlending works to reduce labour shortages and social injustices by helping newcomers and refugees build careers in Canada. They do this by offering affordable loans along with career coaching, financial literacy and mentorship to newcomers and refugees who lack access to mainstream credit. Since 2005, Windmill has empowered thousands of clients in healthcare, IT, financial services, law, engineering and many other fields to triple their incomes as a result of our affordable loans and supports. Windmill is a registered Canadian charity supported by donations and community bonds from the private sector and grants from the public sector. Their Refugee Loan Program has made 800 loans, totaling more than $5.25 million in loan capital, to refugees from 53 countries, the top three being Sudan, Turkey and Syria.

Management

Claudia Hepburn – CEO
Carrie Church – National Director, Operations
Jon Lam, CFA – National Director, Finance, Risk & IT
Oumar Dicko – National Director, Government Partnerships
Rob Hindley – National Director, Marketing & Communications

Structure

Fixed Rate 1, 3, and 5 year bonds.