Alfanar and Future Eve Foundation Spotlight in Circle MENA

In 2012, Alfanar partnered with The Global Fund for Widows (GFW) to support the growth of Future Eve Foundation (FEF) in Egypt. Initially, we invested in a small pilot project which aimed to allocate affordable micro-loans and deliver vocational and financial literacy training to 250 widows and female breadwinners across three underserved villages.  

12 years later, this pilot has grown into the nationally-recognised Amal Project for Widows' Empowerment, transforming the lives of over 23,000 widows across 108 villages in 5 governorates across Egypt.

Over the years, the Amal Project has continuously adapted and refined its approach, integrating models like the Widow's Savings and Loan Assocations (WISALAs) community banks. These initiatives have provided widows and female breadwinners with the the opportunity to access capital, savings and build their credit to support themselves and their families. 

To learn more about Alfanar's journey with Future Eve Foundation, read this case study by Circle MENA.

Circle MENA was formed out of a partnership between Philanthropy Age and the Pearl Initiative, and is supported by The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Circle MENA aims to nurture a culture of philanthropy among like-minded donors, thought-leaders, foundations, and non-profits across the Middle East and North Africa.