What these women did with small loans will surprise you

Tala is expanding efforts to close the gender gap in financial access in the Philippines as millions of women remain underserved despite gains in account ownership over the past decade.

An analysis highlighted that while the country has reduced disparities in formal financial accounts, only 59 percent of Filipino women use mobile money compared with 71 percent of men, underscoring persistent barriers in digital financial inclusion.

The financial infrastructure firm said addressing these gaps requires not only access but also tailored financial services that enable women to build sustainable livelihoods and long-term stability.

Tala reported that 62 percent of its customer base is female, with many using credit to invest in small businesses, education, and household needs that improve financial control and quality of life.

In Cagayan de Oro, a caregiver student identified as Ailyn turned to Tala after her husband fell ill, using a loan to start a food stall that later expanded into a sari-sari store to cover medical and daily expenses.

Her small business evolved into a steady source of income that allowed her to balance caregiving and entrepreneurship while saving for her children’s education and improving household stability.

Tala said Ailyn’s experience reflects how access to small but well-managed capital can help women transition from financial vulnerability to sustainable income generation.

Another borrower, Mitch, a single mother, initially used Tala funds to cover essential expenses before gradually building her credit standing to secure additional financing for a home purchase.

Her financial progress enabled her to move from renting to owning a house while maintaining flexibility to care for her children and invest in improving their living conditions.

Tala said Mitch’s journey demonstrates how consistent credit access and financial discipline can support long-term asset building and reduce economic stress.

In Baseco, Manila, a borrower named Berla used Tala financing to establish a sari-sari store while supplementing her income by transporting goods across Manila Bay.

Facing limited job opportunities, she diversified her income streams and relied on entrepreneurship to sustain her household and create financial independence.

The company said Berla’s case illustrates how alternative credit can enable women to generate opportunities even in constrained labor markets.

Tala said its broader mission extends beyond Women’s Month through continuous efforts to provide inclusive financial services that help women shift from borrowing to wealth-building.

The company is also investing in financial education through its TALAkayan program, which offers digital content and practical tools to help women improve money management and achieve financial goals.

Tala said it has delivered $7 billion in credit to more than 13 million customers across three continents, supporting small business growth, daily financial needs, and long-term economic mobility.

The firm added that its services aim to provide flexible and accessible online credit for unbanked and underserved populations seeking to improve their financial futures.