Promoting sustainability for E3 partners
E3 believes in empowering our partner projects to achieve independence from external support. This approach not only upholds the dignity of everyone involved but also safeguards project activities against potential changes in funding.
To promote sustainability, we support our partners in establishing and managing small businesses and agricultural initiatives that generate an income. E3 has provided interest-free loans to 16 partners since the launch of this programme in 2020. Remarkably, 12 projects have already repaid their loans in full and are using the income to part-fund their activities.
Paran Christian Ministries Durban is on its way to self-sufficiency and in 2025 its E3 grant has been reduced.
Paran empowers refugees who are trying to build a new life in South Africa. They are unable to find employment, open a bank account or receive proper health care because of the stigma, status and lack of documentation of refugees. Some turn to crime to survive and others are destitute with no hope of affording accommodation, food, education and medicine.
Paran’s microfinance groups help refugees save, access loans and set up small businesses. This system encourages saving, keeps money safe and develops community. As loans are repaid, funds are available for new members, business expansion and emergency needs.
Uber helps Paran move towards self-funding
Paran uses its E3-funded vehicle for Uber outside ministry hours, generating a good income. In 2020, an E3 loan funded a second Uber vehicle. With the loan repaid, earnings are now improving Paran’s sustainability and funding new projects for those in need.
The business also helped its drivers: James, Emmanuel and Engels saved enough to buy cars and start their own Uber businesses so they can support their families.
Looking to the future
E3 and Paran will continue to fund the work together, with E3 grants decreasing as Paran’s income grows. Soon, Paran aims to become self-financing by buying a building in the centre of the business district as a church and mission base and a venue for hire.