LIFT empowers KarmaBank beneficiaries to direct their future and build the confidence, skills, and network they need to stand on their own. With no bureaucracy, no judgment, and no delay.
Globally 130 million people are displaced – how can we turn a crisis into economic prosperity for all?
LIFT connects those who can help – with advice, resources, networks, skills, experience, job options – to those needing help. Connections that benefit our whole community.
How LIFT Works
1. Co-define Needs
We apply Design Thinking methods, working closely with our members to identify their core needs and long-term goals.
2. Break Barriers
We co-design creative solutions with charities, government, and businesses to remove barriers.
3. Provide Support
We offer micro-financing, expert guidance, and holistic care to help our members thrive.
Current Projects: Empowering Female-led Enterprises
🥖 Payava Bakery
Before fleeing the Russian invasion in 2022, Payava Bakery was a thriving Ukrainian business. They’ve now partnered with KarmaBank to empower women to launch home-based bakeries.
“Starting over in a foreign country is extremely challenging… rebuilding both your life and business from scratch.”
🍛 Babylon Bites
Basma & Fadwa, two talented women from migrant backgrounds, used KarmaBank support to re-enter the job market and start a catering business with proper certification and coaching.
“It felt impossible to get taken seriously… now we’re building something real.”
🧶 Mountain Wool
Gulsom, once a prosecutor in Afghanistan, now runs Mountain Wool to support women under the Taliban. She lives in the UK and was selected by VISA Everywhere Pioneers 2025.
🪡 YENOF
Founded by Nouria Nagi OBE, YENOF enables women in Yemen to earn income through embroidery and sewing, supported by KarmaBank at the Affordable Art Fair 2025.
🎨 RAW Gallery
RAW Gallery promotes work from female refugee, disabled, and excluded artists. Our goal is to rebalance the art world by making space for new voices. Read more
Backed by Changemakers
20
Disbursed
75
Supported
45
Partners
300
Volunteers
”Dear Andrew, good morning!
Quote from Social Enterprise
“I just want to say once again a big thank you for all the help you give us, for your constant support, and for finding projects we can be part of. It truly means a lot to us and really helps our business move forward.”
Support LIFT
Want to get involved or learn more?