About Windmill Microlending and Our Partnership with the University of British Columbia
Windmill Microlending: Empowering Newcomers
Windmill Microlending is a Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to offering low-interest career loans to help newcomers pay for necessary education to succeed in Canada. Since our inception in 2005, Windmill has supported over 10,000 immigrants and refugees, helping them overcome underemployment and achieve significant career success.
We collaborate with educational institutions and other partners to assist their members in covering costs related to tuition, accreditation, relocation, and living expenses. Our loans are uniquely tailored to meet the needs of immigrant clients who often face barriers in accessing mainstream credit options. With fixed interest rates lower than many other financing options, our loans are designed to be accessible and supportive.
About the University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a global center for education, research, and scholarly activities, consistently ranking among the top 20 public universities worldwide. UBC's commitment to excellence makes it an ideal partner in supporting the educational aspirations of newcomers to Canada.
The Unique Benefits of a Windmill Loan
- Loan Terms: Up to $15,000 with two years of interest-only payments followed by up to three years of principal and interest payments, tailored according to the length of your career plan.
- Interest Rates: A low fixed interest rate of 6.7%.
- No Processing Fees: Zero loan processing fees to reduce the financial burden on our clients.
More Than Just a Loan
Windmill clients benefit from a comprehensive range of support services aimed at enhancing their career trajectories:
- One-on-One Coaching: Personalized guidance to navigate your career path in Canada.
- Career and Educational Resources: Access to a variety of tools and resources to support your educational goals.
- Financial Planning and Budgeting Tools: Expert advice to help you manage and plan your finances effectively.
- The Windmill Mentorship Program: Opportunities to connect with mentors who can provide valuable insights and guidance.
- Community Success Hub: Exclusive access to a community platform for further support and networking.
Impact and Success
- Income Growth: Clients typically see their income increase by over three times as they return to their trained professions.
- Repayment Rate: A historical repayment rate of 95% demonstrates the effectiveness of our loans and the determination of our clients.
- Employment Boost: A 75% decrease in unemployment among our clients, highlighting the significant impact on their professional and financial stability.
Success Story: Victor's Journey to a Dream Job
Victor, originally from Mexico City and now a Cybersecurity Specialist, shares his transformative experience with Windmill Microlending. Arriving in Canada in 2015 and facing uncertainties, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, Victor was initially skeptical about the possibility of obtaining an affordable loan for re-training. However, with Windmill's support, he secured what he now describes as his "dream job" in cybersecurity. "When I landed this job, I felt like my life was back on track," he reflects on his journey to success.
For more information about partnering with Windmill Microlending or to apply for a loan, visit our website or contact us directly at partnerships@teamwindmill.org. Join us in making a tangible difference in the lives of newcomers to Canada.