Savings Circles:
A Global Tradition
For centuries, communities around the world have trusted each other to save together. SusuFlex brings this beautiful tradition into the digital age.
What is a Susu?
A Susu (also spelled "sou-sou") is a traditional rotating savings and credit association (ROSCA) that originated in West Africa and spread throughout the African diaspora. The word comes from the Yoruba term "esusú" meaning "to pool money."
In a susu, a group of people agree to contribute a fixed amount of money on a regular schedule. Each round, the entire pool goes to one member. This continues until everyone has received the pot once, completing the cycle.
This system allows members to access a lump sum of money they might not be able to save on their own—perfect for major purchases, emergencies, or business investments—all without paying interest or going into debt.
Everyone contributes → One person receives → Rotate until complete
Known By Many Names
This tradition exists in cultures across every continent
Susu / Esusu
West Africa & Caribbean
From Yoruba "esusú"Tanda
Mexico & Central America
Spanish for "round" or "turn"Chit Fund / Kitty
South Asia
Formalized rotating savingsHui / Hụi
China & Southeast Asia
Chinese for "association"Paluwagan
Philippines
Tagalog for "to make easy"Kye / Gye
Korea
Traditional rotating creditPartner / Box Hand
Caribbean
Community savings partnershipEqub / Ekub
Ethiopia & Eritrea
Amharic savings traditionArisan
Indonesia
Social gathering with savingsChama
East Africa
Swahili for "group"Tanomoshi / Ko
Japan
Mutual financing associationsKameti / BC
Pakistan
"Committee" or "Beesi Committee"Why This System Works
Time-tested benefits that modern banking can't replicate
Social Accountability
When your friends and family are counting on you, you're more likely to follow through. The social commitment creates powerful motivation to save.
Zero Interest
Unlike loans, you never pay interest. You contribute exactly what you receive—it's a fair exchange among equals.
Forced Discipline
Regular contribution schedules build savings habits that last. The group commitment makes it easier to prioritize saving.
Lump Sum Access
Get access to a significant amount when you need it—for a car, tuition, business inventory, or emergency—without waiting years to save alone.
No Bank Required
Perfect for underbanked communities or anyone who prefers community-based finance. No credit checks, no gatekeepers.
Community Building
Beyond money, it strengthens relationships. Many circles become lifelong support networks and friendships.
Our Mission
To honor and modernize the beautiful tradition of community savings, making it accessible, secure, and trustworthy for the next generation of savers.
Security First
We use bank-level encryption and Stripe's secure payment infrastructure to protect every transaction.
Transparency Always
Every member can see who paid, who's next, and where the money flows. No hidden fees, no surprises.
Trust Building
Our trust scores help you find reliable circle members and build your own reputation as a dependable saver.
Meet the Founder
Built by someone who's lived this tradition—not just studied it
Milton Barkon
Founder & CEO
Minneapolis, MN
Professional Background
- U.S. Army Sergeant — Leadership, discipline & execution under pressure
- Operations Manager — Process optimization & efficiency expert
- Continuous Improvement & R&D — Data-driven problem solver
- Fintech Practitioner — Hands-on builder, not just a visionary
- Full-Stack Developer — Built the entire SusuFlex platform solo
Why I Built This
"I've witnessed firsthand how Susu transforms lives in my community. A coworker joined a $15,000 Susu circle—her payout became seed capital to start her own business. No bank loan, no credit check—just community trust. This isn't just a business for me. It's personal."
Trust-First Philosophy
"Every feature in SusuFlex—Circle Health scores, 5-star ratings, captain transparency, enforceable rules—exists because I asked myself: 'Would I trust my own family's money to this?' If the answer isn't a confident yes, we don't ship it."
Engineering
Technology
150,000+ lines of production code. 93+ screens. Bank-grade security with Stripe Connect compliance. Built to scale.
Community
Support & Outreach
Dedicated to helping users succeed with their savings circles. We're here because we believe in the mission.
Advisory
Strategic Guidance
Backed by advisors with expertise in fintech compliance, community finance, and scaling consumer platforms.
Ready to Start Your Circle?
Join the thousands who save smarter with community support.
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