About Windmill Microlending
Windmill Microlending is a Canadian non-profit offering low-interest career loans to help newcomers pay for the education they need to succeed in Canada. Since 2005, Windmill has supported over 10,000 immigrants and refugees to overcome underemployment and succeed in their careers.
We partner with institutions to help their members cover costs of tuition, accreditation, relocation, and living costs. Our affordable loans are designed to meet the unique needs of immigrant clients, who often cannot access mainline credit, by providing a fixed interest rate that is lower than other financing options.
About our partnership
If you work as a pharmacy assistant/clerk, grocery staff, or in a different role, Windmill Microlending and Loblaw can help you achieve your goal of practicing as a pharmacist in Canada by pursuing your license.
We know the process of obtaining a Canadian license is an expensive one, but thanks to this partnership, you can receive the financial support you need.
Islam’s Story
Islam worked as a pharmacist in Egypt after graduating in 2005 and then for six years at a pharmaceutical company in Saudi Arabia. When he immigrated to Canada in 2014, Islam immediately enrolled in a bridging program. Although he was able to secure work as a pharmacy assistant, it only paid minimum wage. Islam didn’t have the funds to complete the licensing process to work as a pharmacist in Canada. A loan from Windmill allowed Islam to focus on studying to pass his exams, and in 2015, he received his Canadian pharmacist license.
Islam
Pharmacist
What makes a Windmill loan unique?
Our loans offer two years of interest-only payments and up to three years of principal + interest payments, depending on the length of your career plan.
- Loans up to $15,000
- Fixed low-interest rate as low as 6.7%
- Zero loan processing fees
- Success coaching support and mentorship program
More than just a loan
As a Windmill client, you benefit from a range of services, including:
- One-on-one coaching to support you on your career path
- Career and educational resource supports
- Financial planning and budgeting tools
- The Windmill Mentorship Program
- Exclusive access to our Community Success Hub
Our impact on our clients
Over 3x
Growth in income
Newcomers take on low-income jobs to survive. Windmill helps our clients return to their trained profession to boost their income by over three times.
95%
Historical repayment rate
Our affordable loans and repayment structure support clients like you. The impressive rate of repayment showcases our client's determination and the impact of their success.
75%
Decrease in unemployment
As our borrowers take their next steps, employment opportunities soar upon loan repayment, marking the start of a remarkable journey and booming economy.