What is Vittana?
Vittana is a nonprofit organization dedicated to graduating a generation beyond poverty. We believe education is the most powerful tool in eradicating poverty, and to that end pioneered the student microloan in developing countries.

What’s your traction been like thus far?
We made our first loan in 2009 and have catalyzed over 10,000 loans in over a dozen countries since then.

What’s your favorite startup in Seattle? (Besides your own!)
“No fair! Favorite app started in Seattle: Glympse. Favorite value proposition: LikeBright (the best wingman is a best wingwoman). Best inspired-by-sci-fi startup: Modumetal. Favorite startup culture: Moz (mashed potato sculptures and karaoke in the lobby). Favorite startup routine: Apptentive (8 minute abs at 3 pm daily).

What’s your favorite thing about being an entrepreneur?
Tied between two things: (1) trying hard enough to fail a little, dusting yourself off and trying again. (2)the incredibly supportive, collegial, awesome Seattle startup community!

What’s your favorite local sports team?
Sounders

If your company were an animal, what would it be and why?
Meerkat. Small, scrappy, and community-minded. According to wikipedia: “They are very social, living in colonies averaging 20–30 members. Animals in the same group regularly groom each other to strengthen social bonds.” Except instead of grooming we play ping pong.

If you were to take Vittana on a date, where would it want to go?
Some wonderful, magical place that serves international food and has ping pong and karaoke.