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 the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology
SAIT offers a range of programs, courses, and services designed to assist you in exploring interests, acquiring new skills, and achieving your career objectives. With over 300 courses in development for both new and existing programs, they aim to bridge skill gaps and align with industry demands.
Victor’s Story
Arriving in Canada from Mexico City in 2015, Victor was feeling uncertainty and stress about the direction of his career and life. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, he began re-evaluating his career goals, but the costs of re-training were holding him back from making a change. When Victor first heard about affordable loans through Windmill Microlending, he says it sounded too good to be true – but in this case, it was true.
Victor now has what he calls a “dream job” in cybersecurity. “When I landed this job, I felt like my life was back on track,” he says.
Victor
Cybersecurity Specialist
Anoopriya’s Story
Arriving in Canada from India in 2018, Anoopriya and her husband knew no one when they arrived. The start of their journey was hard, without familial support or credit history to rent an apartment. Anoopriya wanted to continue her career as a Software Engineer but realized she needed to upskill to enter the Canadian job market. Both Anoopriya and her husband were eligible for a Windmill loan. They were living on savings, so the financial support could not have come at a better time. “It was really helpful for us, getting the loan from Windmill,” she states.
Anoopriya
Software Engineer
What makes a Windmill loan unique?
- 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
Windmill helps clients return to their trained profession to boost their income by over 3 times.95%
Historical repayment rate
Our clients' dedication is reflected in their impressive repayment rate, showcasing their determination and success.75%
Decrease in unemployment
Employment opportunities soar upon loan repayment, marking the start of a remarkable journey and booming economy.