We’re excited to share that Windmill Microlending has received a 100% effectiveness rating by Impact Genome in their 2024 Verified Impact Report®. This rating reflects our measurable, data-driven impact in advancing economic mobility for immigrants and refugees in Canada.
Why the Impact Genome rating matters
The Impact Genome Registry is the world’s largest repository of standardized nonprofit impact data, covering 2.2 million programs globally. It uses a cross-sector framework to assess performance and outcomes. Windmill’s highly effective rating confirms:
- Validated economic outcomes: Our programs measurably increase client income, a top priority for immigrant economic integration in Canada.
- Evidence-based program design: Our model includes low-interest loans, financial literacy training, career coaching and credentialing support.
- Transparent nonprofit performance: Windmill is one of the few Canadian nonprofits with four consecutive years of standardized, publicly reported results.
In its latest review, Windmill’s program—Supporting Proven Solutions for Skilled Immigrants and Refugees—recorded:
- Effectiveness Rate: 100%
- Clients Served: 4,715
- Verified Outcomes Achieved: 4,715
- Cost per Outcome: $1,804 CAD
- Budget: $8.51 million CAD
Windmill’s outcomes fall squarely within sector benchmarks for both cost and performance, highlighting its strong operational model.
Over the years, our reported outcomes have evolved from credential recognition and job-specific skills to income growth, one of the most meaningful indicators of newcomer success. This consistent evaluation reflects the strength of our program model and our ongoing commitment to helping skilled immigrants achieve long-term career success.
Windmill serves a highly diverse, underserved demographic:
- 100% are immigrants or refugees
- 95% are low-income
- 40% were unemployed when applying
- Gender: 51% men, 48% women, 1% non-binary
- Ethnicity: 58% Asian, 27% Black, 8% Latinx
This level of demographic reach reflects Windmill’s commitment to equity and inclusion.
Clients like Julie, a Nigerian-trained pharmacist, illustrate Windmill’s real-world impact. A friend referred her to Windmill and she applied for a loan to prepare for Canadian pharmacy licensing exams.
She passed her exams and was hired as a senior product manager at Telus Health, thanks to her pharmaceutical background. Today, she mentors others through Windmill’s Community Success Hub, helping fellow newcomers navigate their own professional journeys.
Windmill’s evidence was assessed as highly relevant and valid (5/5 in both categories) and is based on robust internal data linked to client career outcomes. This transparent, scalable model positions Windmill as a leader in both service delivery and nonprofit accountability.
This latest recognition reaffirms our belief that supporting skilled immigrants with financial and career tools creates lasting social and economic change. We’re grateful to our clients, partners and donors who power our mission.
Explore the Impact Genome Verified Impact Report® scorecard :
Click here to view the latest report
