At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tala established the COVID-19 Rebuild Fund to support customers providing essential services to their communities. Through the fund, we offered specialized 0% interest loans to entrepreneurs across the Philippines providing health care, food, education, and related logistics.
In the following two months, we sought to better understand the impact of the Rebuild Fund and how these businesses were adapting to a new normal. Here are some initial insights from a survey of recipients.
All experienced significant strain at the start of the pandemic. Many struggled to maintain inventory facing a lack of capital, disruptions in their supply chains, limited available items in supermarkets, mobility restrictions and curfews. Almost half reported slower business and 21% had to close down entirely before the Rebuild Fund helped them reopen.
Businesses added new food and medicine, offered credit and more. A majority of entrepreneurs added delivery services and takeout options. Many now take orders on apps like Whatsapp to minimize exposure to customers and offer credit to customers who can’t afford to pay. Despite their own hardships, over 32% of recipients in all markets donated goods and services to frontline workers.
Most used their loans to stock their businesses and pay employees. As the Philippines faced one of the strictest lockdowns in the world, a few customers used their loans to cover household bills and groceries.
The Rebuild Fund helped entrepreneurs grow their income. 24% of respondents earned more and 42% able to maintain their current income despite hardship. Zero businesses closed since receiving support from the fund.
Beyond finances, the Rebuild Fund had a positive emotional impact. Many respondents reported lower levels of worry and increased feelings of positivity. The feeling of being supported also grew significantly. In these uncertain times, that feels as important as anything.
We are encouraged by the Rebuild Fund entrepreneurs’ remarkable resilience and will continue to monitor their success.
Tala is operated by Tala Financing Philippines Inc., a licensed financing company with SEC Registration No. CS201710582 and Certificate of Authority No. 1132. Always study the terms and conditions and the disclosure statement before proceeding with any loan transaction.
