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Small Business Loans — UJIA-KIEDF in Ashkelon
Social loan fund for community small-business owners. Up to ₪200,000, subsidized interest, no bank collateral. UJIA-KIEDF funded by British-Jewish community.
About Ashkelon
Ashkelon absorbed significant waves of Israeli-Ethiopian community members from the 1990s onward and is today a major southern community hub. Community members are spread across multiple neighbourhoods in the city, alongside a growing presence of local businesses, educational institutions and community-led initiatives.
What the fund offers
- Amount: up to ₪200,000 per business
- Subsidized interest: prime - 2% (varies)
- Repayment period: up to 5 years
- No bank collateral: only personal guarantors
- Business mentorship: free mentor for every borrower
Who is eligible?
- Existing business owners (1+ year operating) — OR a solid business plan for a new venture
- Community members (Ethiopian-Israeli / Falash Mura)
- Israeli-registered business — VAT + corporate ID
- No criminal record for tax offenses
Process
- Initial application: via ujia.org → form + business plan
- Interview: with fund coordinator + assigned business mentor
- Credit committee: reviews case (~3 weeks)
- Signing: loan contract + guarantors
- Disbursement: funds in account within a week
Tip: Kurat (another community org) provides mentorship to community members BEFORE application — helps with business plan writing.
Related rights
Community Mortgage — 600,000 ILS for Ethiopian-Israelis
Govt loan for Ethiopian-Israeli families: ₪600,000 over 25 years, 0% interest for the first 10, 2% for the next 15. Allocated by annual lottery (~200 families).
Tax Benefits for New Immigrants (5/10 years)
10-year income tax exemption on foreign income, enhanced tax credits for 5 years, customs exemption on personal effects. Applies to all olim — including Ethiopian-Israelis.
Klita Basket — Absorption Aid for New Immigrants
Monthly cash payment to new immigrants during the first year post-aliyah. Amount varies by family status and age.
Klita Basket for Ethiopian Olim — Complete Guide
Ethiopian olim and Falash Mura immigrants receive an extended klita basket: monthly stipend, adjustment grants, ulpan voucher, 6-month health coverage, and vocational training.
