I've been asked (not-so politely) to introduce myself. So here it is.
I'm a techie, and started lending to Kiva in April '07. So far, I've made 27 loans, most of them to entrepreneurs in the former Soviet Union. I've also made a few loans to Iraq, as I feel it's important to encourage small businesses there to help rebuild their country.
I like lending to Kiva for two reasons. First, many of these countries are poor, and building businesses there will help improve their economy and the standard of living there. That includes everything from food and agriculture, to basic services, to some luxuries. This is how many countries around the world have built themselves up (including the U.S.) Nothing is better than seeing the loan repaid, because that means the loan recipient was able to use the money to improve their life, and the lives of those around them.
Second, I like playing "venture capitalist" - I read all the business plans, and lend to those that seem like a good idea. So far I've had pretty good luck with it - the only late payment I've had was one to Kenya. And to be honest, it's fun.
