Portfolio Companies.

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Creation Investments Social Venture Fund I currently has the following microfinance institutions and social ventures in its portfolio:

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A Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Finance Company in Mexico

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The MSME credit market in Mexico is currently under-serviced, with the majority of the current credit providers targeting the traditional ‘survivalist’ and ‘micro’ entrepreneur markets in rural and semi-urban areas using large group loan methodologies. These markets are currently serviced primarily by traditional micro-lenders (NGOs, finance companies and one microfinance bank – Compartamos) focused exclusively on micro entrepreneurs, as well as an array of credit unions that provide a broad range of financial services exclusively to their members. Rather than focus on the lower end of the microfinance market as the vast majority of the current providers are doing, ASPIRE occupies a niche servicing the higher end of the micro market and the lower end of the SME market with loan sizes ranging from $500 to $5,000.

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In early 2008, ASPIRE begun operations in Guadalajara, the second largest metropolitan area in Mexico. ASPIRE will expand to other cities after initial goals are achieved. According to the “Consejo Nacional de Población” (National Population Census), Mexico has an economically active population of 43 million, an incredible 81% of whom operate small or very small enterprises in the formal and informal sectors. With 40% of the general population being economically active, that means that approximately 1,644,933 people are engaged in some form of work in Guadalajara, and there are 1,332,395 people engaged in some sort of small enterprise.

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ASPIRE has both financial and social return objectives. ASPIRE seeks to ensure profitability through strong credit standards, continuing operating cost efficiency, and executing on the growth strategy.  Social goals focus on overall economic development and job creation significantly helping those living in poverty through increased income and job availability.

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With seasoned management, a proven marketplace, and a compelling niche, ASPIRE is poised to succeed and have tremendous impact.