Canva Founders Launch Largest Cash Transfer Program in Malawi
Melanie Perkins and Cliff Obrecht, the billionaire founders of Canva, have initiated the largest unconditional cash transfer program in a low-income country, targeting Malawi. Through their Canva Foundation and in partnership with GiveDirectly, they have committed $150 million to provide direct cash transfers to the poorest households in Malawi. The program, which began as a $10 million pilot in 2021, has expanded significantly, with $52.5 million already distributed. The initiative aims to empower recipients by allowing them to decide how to use the funds, which has led to significant improvements in poverty levels, child mortality, and school enrollment.