Whose Life Will You Change With an Investment? See How Workplace Is Helping a Filipina Entrepreneur Take Her Next Step

We’ve always believed that business can and should be a force for good. Growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of people or communities. Sometimes, the most meaningful impact comes from taking small, thoughtful steps that help others build a more secure future for themselves.

Earlier this year, Graham, one of our leaders at Workplace INC, came across an article in The Big Issue that highlighted Lendwithcare’s work. Inspired by what he read, he decided to take action.

lendwithcare

Through Lendwithcare, Workplace funded a small business in Cebu, Philippines, with an interest-free loan of around £230, repayable over 12 months. The loan was made in the name of Workplace Incorporated, reinforcing our commitment to responsible business and global social impact.

“It was a good feeling helping them “ - Graham

That simple phrase captures what Lendwithcare is all about. A relatively modest sum can unlock opportunity, dignity and independence for someone who simply needs a chance to get started.

  Supporting Jesabel at Lendwithcare

Helping Filipina Entrepreneur like Jesabel

Jesabel are determined to work themselves out of poverty. She runs a small retail business selling slippers, shoes, and sling bags while also serving as a Barangay Health Worker in her community. What started online has grown steadily, and she is now preparing to move into her own market stall.

With support from a Lendwithcare loan, Jesabel will expand her product range and create a more professional space helping to strengthen her business, support her family, and move closer to long-term stability.

Why this matters to us

Twelve years ago, Manila changed our business.

Building a team in the Philippines allowed Workplace Incorporated to grow sustainably, reduce risk, and create long-term value not just for our clients, but for the people who power our organisation every day. The experience reshaped how we think about growth, talent and global opportunity.

Today, supporting initiatives like Lendwithcare feels like a natural extension of that journey. We understand first-hand how access to opportunity can transform lives, families and communities.

While our loan in Cebu is small in financial terms, the potential impact is significant. For the entrepreneur involved, it could mean stable income, greater resilience, and the ability to invest in their future.

Backed by experience and integrity

Lendwithcare operates in eleven countries and is part of CARE International’s wider mission to fight poverty and injustice in over 100 countries worldwide. CARE has more than 80 years of experience delivering humanitarian aid, supporting long-term development, and championing financial inclusion particularly for women and girls, who are disproportionately affected by poverty.

CARE is non-political and non-religious, ensuring support reaches anyone in need, regardless of background or belief.

We believe in sustainable growth, ethical decision-making, and shared success. Supporting micro-entrepreneurs through Lendwithcare reflects those values in action.

Sometimes, real impact starts with a single decision.

Small steps. Big growth.