Opportunity International Canada

About Us

ABOUT US

Innovative microfinance solutions to build sustainable livelihoods.

We believe that poverty is not inevitable — and that given the right support, hardworking people can transform their lives. Opportunity International comes alongside men and women living in poverty, providing access to microfinance, agriculture, education, health, and innovative ultra-poverty programs. Through this work, individuals build sustainable livelihoods, strengthen their families, and create new possibilities for the next generation. Our model is grounded in the inherent dignity of every human life and we believe that every individual, regardless of where they were born, deserves the opportunity to thrive. 

HOW WE CREATE CHANGE

Our proven model

Inputs

Local partner networks
Donor support
Government grants

Core Programs

Microfinance
Agriculture
Education
Health
Ultra-poverty

Reach

Entrepreneurs, primarily women, and their families in 28 different countries.

Outcomes

Sustainable livelihoods
Food security
Climate resilience
Improved health & well-being
Children in school
Stronger communities

A pioneer in microfinance for poverty alleviation

For more than 50 years, Opportunity’s unwavering mission globally has been focused on providing a dignified way out of poverty’s grip. 

We’re not just about statistics; we’re about stories of transformation. With your partnership, we’ve been able to expand and introduce innovative programs that truly break the cycle of poverty and enable people to build better lives for themselves and their families.

Opportunity International Canada, established in 1998, is proud to be part of a global network. We work alongside Supporting Members in five countries and collaborate with Implementing Partners in 33 nations worldwide.

Watch a message from our founder, David Stiller, on how Opportunity International Canada began.

1971

First Opportunity loan was given by a Canadian, Ross Clemenger, to Colombia

1984

Opportunity loans exceed $1 million in one year

1998

Opportunity International was founded in Canada

David Stiller incorporates Opportunity International in Canada.

1998

The Opportunity International Global Network is formed.

2000

Mobile Banks are formed to serve clients in remote places

2002

The world's first dedicated microinsurance program was created to that vulnerable clients were not wiped out by crisis.

2002

Agriculture Finance was launched

2004

Youth entrepreneurial program is piloted in the Dominican Republic

2007

Education Finance and Education Quality launches.

2007

Developing of Digital Financial Services reduces costs and increases access.

2013

Social Performance Management finalized to measure impact.

2015

Robert Lawless serves as Board Chair and Interim President & CEO

2015

Dale Patterson is appointed President & CEO

2018

Dan Murray joins the OIC Team as President & CEO

2020

John Mach is appointed Board Chair

Get in Touch

Opportunity International Canada
101-2275 Upper Middle Road East
Oakville, ON L6H 0C3

1.877.867.2448
connect@opportunityinternational.ca

Opportunity International Canada is a registered charity in Canada
#87751 6385 RR0001.

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