In the past decade, many large-scale scientific studies have been done on the effects of unconditional cash transfers. It really works! You can read specific studies and background articles here. On a side note: research shows that people do not spend more on tobacco or alcohol after receiving cash transfers.

Women who take out microcredits tend to have a lower default rate than men. This implies a more responsible spending pattern, which means cash transfers are likely to be more beneficial for women. Research also shows that family members tend to benefit more from cash transfers when women in the household are targeted. On top of that, as women and girls on average earn less and save less, living close to poverty more often than men, we consider a special focus on women justified.

The 100WEEKS model draws on the Graduation Approach as pioneered by BRAC and further developed by CGAP. We provide cash and training over a longer period of time to address the multiple challenges of poverty simultaneously.
Through trial and error, we found that 100 weeks is the ideal timeframe for most people to establish sustainable livelihoods on their own terms. This process takes time. Only after having overcome scarcity do recipients start investing productively and accumulating capital. They increase their human and social capital through the coaching and training program and eventually develop sustainable livelihoods. A longer program might reduce the incentive for entrepreneurship while a shorter program leaves no room for error and learning.

Yes. 100WEEKS provides a platform that connects donors directly with people living in extreme poverty. The model of a "platform" makes our approach easily scalable and extremely flexible. All standardized processes are automated, using an IT platform, web-based crowdfunding, mobile money, and mobile surveys. While 100WEEKS secures the cash transfers and collects the data, local implementing partners with experience and knowledge about the local context implement the program. We leverage the capabilities of these local partners to keep costs low and scale exponentially. Even local partners with weak organizational capabilities can work on our cloud-based platform.