When Glen and Mildred Robbins Leet launched Trickle Up in 1979, they had the funds to allocate grants to 10 people in Dominica, West Indies. Last year Trickle Up launched 11,141 microbusinesses. Though our programs have expanded significantly in our 29-year history, we remain committed to our mission.

According to the business reports we collect,

9 of 10 Trickle Up businesses continue after the first year.
• 7 of 10 microentrepreneurs increase their family's food intake.
• 5 of 10 are able to send more children to school.
• 5 of 10 are able to buy better clothing for their families.
• Women lead 85% of Trickle Up businesses.
• People with disabilites account for about 10% of the people Trickle Up serves.

And what about gains in self-confidence, which cannot be quantified?

Eusebia Cardosa, who started a successful business selling cosmetics in Guatemala, says, "For me it has been like a big breath of air. Before, the men had the harvest, and when they got money at the end of the month, if they decided we needed shoes, they would bring home shoes. But it was their decision. I used to ask my husband for permission to go to a savings meeting. Then I stopped, and now he asks me when I have my meeting. I think he respects me more."

Like eating more nutritious food, or accessing medical care, self-confidence and self-worth make life better.  

We remain successful by remaining efficient: 84 cents of every dollar donated goes directly to help alleviate poverty.