Last year, Forbes released the results of a study conducted by Gallup that surveyed over 1,000 people to discover 10 traits of successful entrepreneurs. I recently returned to this article and was struck by the characteristics they identified. These traits - things like confidence, determination and relationship-building - describe Opportunity International clients beautifully. 

It shouldn't come as a surprise that Opportunity's clients exemplify the characteristics of successful entrepreneurs, because they are successful entrepreneurs. 

Maria Jose in Nicaragua used a loan from Opportunity to grow her hammock-weaving business and secure her place in the market. As her business grew, Maria employed six family members - and eventually she hired seven more workers, creating jobs for many in her community. 

Solange in Rwanda grew her tailoring business with financial tools from Opportunity. As she expanded her services, she began to offer classes that help people in her community develop retail businesses of her own. She has taught over 70 people - providing dozens of people with jobs at her shop or the skills they need to create their own. 

Women and men like Maria Jose and Solange are building thriving enterprises - drawing upon their creativity and determination. They have created jobs for themselves, and as their businesses have grown, they have created jobs for their neighbors. 

Over the coming weeks, we will celebrate entrepreneurship and job creation. We will share inspiring stories of Opportunity clients building businesses that are transforming their entire communities. We will highlight Opportunity supporters liek you who have built their own entrepreneurial ventures right here in our backyard. And we will recognize the power that budding, growing and thriving enterprises have in employing and influencing the communities around them. 

Entrepreneurs are transforming their communities, and we are excited to invest in and celebrate them this spring.