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Kiva

Kiva US 0% loan

A 0% crowdfunded loan, not a grant. Repayment is usually over 12–36 months and starts one month after funding. Borrowers on Kiva's alternative verification may be limited to $1,000–$3,000.

Amount
$1,000–$15,000 at 0% interest, no fees
Can a for-profit school apply?
✓Yes, a for-profit school can apply
Deadline
Rolling
Who this fits
Microschool · Private school · Homeschool co‑opAny US business can apply, so a school or co-op run as a registered business fits; an informal co-op doesn't.
New schools
Not stated for new schools
Where
National
Last checked
Oct 1, 2026on kiva.org
Apply on the funder’s site↗(opens kiva.org in a new tab)

How to apply

  1. Step 1: Write a short description of your school and add a photo
  2. Step 2: List friends, family and families you serve who could be your first private lenders
  3. Step 3: Plan for repayment starting one month after the loan is funded

Funders change their requirements. Check the official page before you apply. Getting ready? See what funders usually ask for.

Who can apply

“You must be at least 18 years of age. … You must reside and operate your business in the United States.”
In the funder’s own words, from kiva.org, checked Oct 1, 2026.

Kiva also lists other minimum criteria (for example, no current foreclosure, bankruptcy or liens). Businesses registered in, or mainly operating in, Nevada or North Dakota can’t apply.

  • 18 or older
  • US business, not registered in NV or ND
  • Recruit 5–40 private lenders from your own network within 15 days

Timing

Rolling.

Related guides

  • How to apply for a small-business loan (and what lenders will ask for)
  • Donations and crowdfunding for small schools: what's tax-deductible and how to raise money honestly

Not legal or tax advice. Whether your school should be for-profit or a nonprofit, or take on a loan, is a decision for your CPA or attorney. Always confirm the details on the funder’s own page before you apply.

Spot something out of date? Tell us and we’ll re-check it against the funder’s page.

Homebook Funding Helper

This is not legal, tax or financial advice. Whether your school should be for-profit or a nonprofit, or take on a loan, is a decision for your CPA or attorney. Always confirm the details on the funder’s own page before you apply.

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