LIFT 5 Project

The event was attended by Bishop Michel Aoun, representatives of the Maronite Archdioceses of Tripoli and Byblos, the Acting Governor of Byblos, Mr. Michel Issa, Founder of IPT, Mr. Zakhia Issa, CEO of IPT, along with social and economic stakeholders and program beneficiaries.

In her opening remarks, MIF Executive Director Corine Faddous highlighted the Foundation's commitment to empowering individuals and small businesses through subsidized loans, with MIF covering both interest and loan costs. Dr. Toni M. Issa, President of the Foundation, reaffirmed MIF's long-standing commitment to local development, emphasizing that meaningful change begins by supporting small businesses and local initiatives inspired by Michel Issa's entrepreneurial journey.

Mr. Ziad Halabi, CEO of VITAS, praised the successful partnership with MIF over five consecutive editions of the program and highlighted the tangible impact of subsidized microfinance on beneficiaries' livelihoods.

Minister Hanine El Sayed commended the initiative, stressing the importance of field-based development programs that translate national strategies into direct support for communities. She also emphasized the Ministry's growing focus on social inclusion and economic empowerment.

Bishop Michel Aoun praised the fruitful partnership between the Foundation and the Maronite Diocese of Byblos, while Fr. Kamel Kamel, representing Bishop Youssef Soueif, highlighted the positive impact of the program in Zgharta and Koura and expressed hope that future editions would expand to additional underserved districts.

During the ceremony, VITAS presented the program's results, noting that USD 100,000 in subsidized loans were distributed to 86 beneficiaries, with 50% of recipients being women, supporting projects across agriculture, food production, veterinary services, guesthouses, restaurants, handicrafts, gift shops, mechanical services, and other small businesses that contribute to local economic development and job creation.

The event concluded with Dr. Toni Issa presenting a commemorative shield to Minister Hanine El Sayed, followed by the distribution of participation certificates and loan cards to beneficiaries, and a luncheon held in their honor.