On September 17, 2013, Supervisor Mark Farrell introduced a Resolution at the Board of Supervisors that aims to create a new public private partnership between the City of San Francisco and Kiva. This relationship will enable the City to act as a Kiva Zip Trustee, allowing it to identify and endorse entrepreneurs and small businesses who could qualify for a loan on Kiva Zip's platform.
Mr. Farrell became the first California elected official to act as an individual trustee last month and has since endorsed his first borrower, Patrick. Patrick and his partner Diane own and run the Abundant Market, a gourmet shop in the heart of Pacific Heights that is inspired by Patrick's Parisian upbringing.
Patrick immigrated to San Francisco 20 years ago and dedicated his career in the food and hospitality industry to providing his community with the highest quality food. There are numerous other entrepreneurs just like him that need access to capital to start or grow their businesses. Some can be found here, but Kiva Zip and Mr. Farrell seek to reach many more through this partnership with the City.
Patrick, Co-Founder and Operator of the Abundant Market The Budget and Finance Committee will vote on the Resolution on Wednesday October 9 at 10:15 AM PST. Kiva Zip invites the local community to join them at City Hall to show their support! Mr. Farrell will introduce the Resolution, and former borrowers and trustees are expected to present on their experience, as well.
As Mr. Farrell expresses, "Our small business community is the backbone of our local economy here in San Francisco, and when they win, we all win and continue to move forward together as a City."
