Jerusalem Interest-Free
Microfinance Fund (JIMF)
Established in 2009 by Donald Franklin, the Jerusalem Interest-Free Microfinance Fund (JIMF) was born from a deep social commitment: to provide a gateway to financial independence for Jerusalem’s women whose access to traditional banking is limited. JIMF is a unique initiative that combines interest-free loans with a holistic professional envelope, ensuring that financial aid is backed by business excellence.
Over the years, JIMF has evolved to meet the dynamic needs of Jerusalem’s diverse populations: In East Jerusalem we focus on empowering women through economic breakthroughs and professional autonomy. We work with the Haredi Sector to facilitate the establishment and expansion of community-adapted businesses. As part of our support for Reservist Families since October 7th, JIMF has extended its reach to women whose partners are serving in the military reserves, preserving the economic resilience of those protecting our homeland.
SUCCESS STORIES
Zissy S
From Front Room to Mall Store
Batool Salman
Holistic Support for a Holistic Doctor
Dr. Maia Batash
Building an ADHD Clinic in Jerusalem
How JIMF Microfinance Works
At MATI Jerusalem, we believe capital is only the starting point. Our process is designed to guarantee long-term success:
Economic Planning: MATI’s expert economists assist in drafting the application, assessing feasibility, and ensuring a responsible repayment plan.
Professional Committee: Each application is reviewed by MATI’s specialists to tailor a personal development roadmap for the borrower.
Holistic Support: Borrowers benefit from professional courses, business training, and close personal mentoring throughout their journey.
We offer tailored financial solutions to match each entrepreneur’s stage of growth:
Standard Growth Track: Loans of 18,000 NIS.
Expansion Track: Select loans of up to 40,000 NIS.
Student Track: Dedicated support for female students from East Jerusalem with loans up to 10,000 NIS.
What Makes JIMF Unique
JIMF stands apart from traditional microfinance programs through our deeply integrated approach to community-based economic development.
Our borrowers understand that their timely repayment enables the fund to support the next woman in their community, fostering a powerful sense of mutual accountability. Unlike cold banking systems, MATI builds a lasting bond with each entrepreneur. This personal relationship allows us to be attentive – offering “grace periods” and flexible solutions during temporary hardships to ensure their business continues to thrive.
Through our culturally sensitive approach to training and loan enforcement, JIMF and MATI have maintained loan default rates at 2%. Our support enables the economic empowerment of women, transforming the lives of dozens of families and inspiring entire communities.
JIMF - MATI IMPACTS
women received Business Launch Loans
Business Loans arranged
Loan repayment rate
Our Leadership: The JIMF Committee
The fund’s integrity and strategic direction are guided by a committee of world-class experts in economics, community building, and policy:
Donald Franklin
Founder Trustee & Chair
Donald has worked as a Senior Economic Adviser in the UK’s Government Economic Service for the last fifteen years, and is Treasurer of the Middle East and North Africa Health Policy Forum. He was previously Chief Economist to Schroders PLC.
Michael Pollack
Founder Trustee & Honorary Secretary
Michael is responsible for JIMF’s expansion within Jerusalem’s Charedi community. Educated at the LSE and Hebron Yeshiva, he oversees advanced Rabbinic programs and community education in London and Jerusalem.
Jasmina Posen-Griffoul
A project manager and communications specialist in the non-profit sector with experience in international development, Jasmina has worked on large-scale, publicly funded programs. Jasmina holds an MA in Communications from Sciences Po (Paris) and an MSc in Environmental Politics from University College London.
PROGRAM PARTNERS
International partners are invited to help expand this program by contributing to funding Jerusalem’s financially challenged women entrepreneurs. Every contribution helps a woman entrepreneur to build a sustainable business, to support her family with dignity, and become a force for positive change in her community.
"The fund is more than a financial resource; it is a vote of confidence in the ability of Jerusalem's women to lead, innovate, and prosper."
Talk to us about opportunities for investing in our microfinance program!