Thursday, 30 November saw the long-awaited ceremony at the European Investment Bank for the European Microfinance Award 2017 on Microfinance for Housing. The Award of €100,000 granted by the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs – Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs was won by Cooperative Tosepantomin.

Cooperative Tosepantomin is a Mexican cooperative that offers housing savings and loans combined with technical assistance to rural clients living in marginalised areas. Notable for its holistic approach to technical support, involving architecture planning, budgetary support and ongoing oversight of building processes, Tosepantomin was also recognised for its outstanding promotion of environmental responsibility through eco-friendly building techniques, recycling, renewable energy and energy efficiency.

The High Jury reported a close decision, with outstanding applications from the two other finalists, Mibanco of Peru for its three housing products, including a long-term, collateralized mortgage, an incremental home improvement loan and a water and sanitation connection product; and The First MicroFinance Bank (FMFB) Afghanistan, for its home improvement loan, provided with construction technical assistance offered through a network of partner experts.

European Dialogue No.12 - Microfinance for Housing: Building New Foundations in Housing Microfinance

European Microfinance Award 2017 brochure

Press release: Cooperativa de Ahorro y Préstamo Tosepantomin (Mexico), winner of the 2017 European Microfinance Award (FR, ES)

Watch the videos presenting the winner and finalists

Visit the European Microfinance Award website

To learn more about the topic see our blog Launch of European Microfinance Award 2017 on Microfinance for Housing and NextBillion's blog Home Sweet Home: Mobilizing Microfinance for Housing.