If you've read Muhammad Yunas' amazing book Banker to the Poor, you know what a profound impact microlending can have on third world countries. Tiny loans (as little as $10 in some cases) have allowed poor families to invest in the rudiments of a business, in some cases breaking the cycle of poverty.
Now MicroPlace.com, with the backing of eBay Inc. (NASDAQ: EBAY), wants to make it easier for those of us in the Western world to finance these endeavors -- and earn a return too, as high as 4%.
While the site may not be profitable and certainly isn't a material contribution to a company the size of eBay, it could help the company where it needs help these days: its reputation.
The minimum investment is only $100, and subsequent contributions can be as little as $50. It's definitely something worth looking into, and the fact that you can earn interest makes this an ideal way to "do well by doing good."
If you're a parent, I would suggest opening up an account for you children this holiday season. It's a way to give them the gift of giving back, along with that Nintendo Wii or pair of Heelys.
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