When Qredits started, was there an idea of how great the impact would be on the community, and looking back, what was the initial impact on Aruba's economy when it started?

Since Qredits Aruba started its operations in 2017, the focus has always been to stimulate the entrepreneurial sector on our island. Qredits' mission from the start has been to offer resources, coaching, and microfinance to small and medium-sized entrepreneurs in Aruba, who might have difficulties accessing other traditional financing sources. Ultimately, through Qredits' support and guidance, these entrepreneurs can achieve financial and social independence. This initiative aims to promote the business industry in Aruba, which also impacts the community socially and economically.Initially, the impact on Aruba's economy involved supporting small and medium entrepreneurs by offering a combination of coaching and microfinancing. This combination helped entrepreneurs develop the necessary skills and knowledge to start and successfully manage their own businesses, creating a culture of entrepreneurship in Aruba. By supporting these entrepreneurs, Qredits Aruba also indirectly contributed to job creation on the island, positively impacting Aruba’s economy.

What are the most notable achievements of Qredits over the 7-year period?

Qredits Aruba has financed more than 450 local companies, representing an investment of Afl. 16.8 million in Aruba’s economy. It has also supported over two thousand individuals aspiring to become or who are local entrepreneurs, with educational programs, personalized guidance and training through coaching and mentoring, and detailed advice on each business plan obtained.

During 2020 (Covid), Qredits Aruba also assisted 101 entrepreneurs with the financial product "Bridge Loan." Introduced in March 2020, this loan served as financial relief, allowing these merchants to keep their companies open during the pandemic.In 2022, the "BeYourOwnBoss" educational program introduced entrepreneurship to a group of nearly 600 students (aged 14-16) and equipped them with all the necessary entrepreneurial skills for their future. It’s important for the future generation of professionals to be informed that entrepreneurship is also a career option, and importantly, entrepreneurial skills are demanded not only when one is an entrepreneur but also when working in any organization. The students can apply what they learned during the "BeYourOwnBoss" program in any future job they choose. This educational program was made possible through a partnership between Qredits Aruba and Aruba Bank N.V.

In 2024, Qredits Aruba unveiled a brand-new program aimed at helping entrepreneurs in the agriculture sector. This initiative, called the "Agri Fund," tackles the challenge of accessing financing and provides guidance for those looking to start businesses in agriculture. The main aim is to boost, develop, and enhance the agriculture sector, ultimately diversifying Aruba's economy. Through this program, aspiring entrepreneurs in agriculture will have access to the "Agriloan" financial product at a reduced interest rate. Additionally, they'll receive training to help them craft solid business plans and financial strategies.

What has Qredits, as a team and company, learned from the good and difficult experiences during the 7 years of operation?

Over the last 7 years, Qredits Aruba, as a team and as a company, has learned a lot from various beautiful and unforgettable experiences that have contributed to growth and development in the business sector on our island and also in the development and growth of the Qredits Aruba team. As a microfinance institute, we celebrate the success stories of clients supported by Qredits Aruba. This reinforces our mission and continues to motivate our team with our passion and dedication to the work, maintaining the values of Qredits.

What is the impact of Qredits on individuals who have the courage to start their own business or believe in their current business?

Qredits provides access to financing, business training, personal guidance, and other resources to stimulate and provide the necessary support to entrepreneurs who have the courage to start their business. This way, the entrepreneur can feel that they are not alone and that they have a team ready to help.

How has the diversity of talents within the Qredits team contributed to success over the 7-year period?

Indeed, the diversity of talents within the Qredits Aruba team has played a crucial role in the growth trajectory over the past 7 years. Each team member brings their own experience, knowledge, values, and professionalism. This diversity helps bring different perspectives, leading to creative and effective solutions and a good work culture that fosters collaboration to achieve our common goals.

A message to clients who have enjoyed the support of Qredits and to future ones?

Qredits Aruba thanks all entrepreneurs for their trust and support in our services over the past 7 years. We appreciate your efforts, dedication, and ambition to grow and develop your businesses and yourselves as entrepreneurs. You can continue to count on our support to continuously create opportunities in the entrepreneurial sector in Aruba.

Commitment

For our future entrepreneurs, Qredits Aruba is committed to helping you make your business a success. We are prepared to guide you at every step of the way, whether you are at the initial phase of your business or are already established and looking to expand. We are ready to provide you with the resources, coaching, and support necessary for you to be successful in the future. If you are facing any challenges or have questions, feel free to contact us at 5822250 and follow us on our Facebook page “Qredits Aruba” for more information.