News & Events

Building a Bridge Between Financial Education and Financial Health - new e-MFP Action Group publication

Jun 01, 2023

e-MFP is pleased to share with you the Second Research Digest, "Building a Bridge Between Financial Education and Financial Health", a publication of the ‘From Research to Practice and Back Again’ Action Group. This publication focuses on understanding the relationship between financial education (FE) and financial health (FH), a still under-researched topic which is gaining traction among practitioners and researchers having been identified as one of the top research needs in a survey among financial inclusion practitioners conducted by the AG.

The Resilience Finance Days, 25-26 May

May 18, 2023

Scale for Resilience, led by e-MFP member Yapu Solutions, is holding a free 2-day virtual conference on Inclusive Resilience Finance on 25 - 26 May. The conference focuses on bringing together actors from the Inclusive Finance space highlighting how to support resilience of most vulnerable populations.

BNP Paribas releases its 2023 Microfinance Social Performance Report

Apr 21, 2023

Since the 1990s, BNP Paribas has been committed to facilitating financial inclusion, in particular by supporting 21 microfinance institutions. Learn more about their work in the second Microfinance Social Performance Report, expanded for this new edition with an environmental component.

Call for interest: Organiser & Host 8th European Research Conference on Microfinance (ECRM2024)

Apr 18, 2023

Since 2009, the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) and the Centre for European Research in Microfinance (CERMi), in partnership with a broad group of European Universities, organise the conference every two years with the objective of encouraging academics and other inclusive finance sector stakeholders to meet and engage in relevant debates and collaborations, and to ensure that the latest research is disseminated to the whole microfinance and inclusive finance community. e-MFP is launching this call for interest to find a host and organiser for the 8th edition of the conference in 2024.

41 organisations from 25 countries apply to Round 1 of European Microfinance Award 2023 on ‘Inclusive Finance for Food Security & Nutrition’

Apr 17, 2023

Round 1 of the European Microfinance Award 2023 (EMA2023) on ‘‘Inclusive Finance for Food Security & Nutrition’ has closed, and the EMA evaluation team is delighted to announce that 41 organisations from 25 countries have submitted applications – a diverse field representing all the major inclusive finance regions of the world.

Catch up on the EMA2023 Application Guidance Sessions in EN/SP/FR

Mar 29, 2023

e-MFP held Application Guidance session in English /en español/en français on the 28 & 29 March during which the team went over the Award process and replied to questions. Watch the recordings in EN/SP/FR

Check out our March 2023 Newsletter

Mar 27, 2023

Catch up on the latest #financialinclusion news from e-MFP in our newsletter out now!

The Green Map: a common place for Green Inclusive Finance projects and best practices in both adaptation to and mitigation of climate change

Mar 21, 2023

The Green Map is a project of the e-MFP Green Inclusive & Climate Smart Finance Action Group (GICSF-AG) developed with the support of the Government of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Started in December 2022, the project aims to map green inclusive finance projects and inclusive finance actors' best practices in both adaptation to and mitigation of climate change and more broadly coping with environmental degradation and promoting sustainable environmental practices.

Water Access Acceleration Fund: €36 million committed for safe drinking water

Mar 17, 2023

The Water Access Acceleration Fund (W2AF), an impact-first blended equity fund for water, has been launched. By investing in water companies, W2AF expects to provide 20 billion liters of safe drinking water to 30 million people, especially in Africa and Asia. W2AF’s partners include e-MFP members Incofin, Aqua For All and BNP Paribas.

EMA2023: Inclusive Finance for Food Security & Nutrition - Applications now open for €100,000 prize!

Mar 15, 2023

Finanzas Inclusivas para la Seguridad Alimentaria y la Nutrición - ¡Abierto el plazo para presentarse al premio de 100.000 €! La Finance Inclusive pour la Sécurité Alimentaire et la Nutrition - Prix de 100 000 € : candidatures ouvertes !

The 2022 MIMOSA scores are now available

Mar 09, 2023

We are pleased to announce that the 2022 MIMOSA scores are now available! Based on the Findex survey published last year and drawing on the 20+ country reports published by MIMOSA to-date, this is a one-of-a-kind resource for understanding the level of credit penetration and overindebtedness risk in a large number of markets.

On International Women's Day - overcoming challenges, social norms and availing of new opportunities through financial inclusion

Mar 08, 2023

The impetus for innovation in how the financial inclusion sector can help women overcoming challenges, social norms and avail themselves of new opportunities, has never been stronger. This International Women's Day, e-MFP commits to supporting its members in addressing gender barriers and ensuring equity and opportunity for women everywhere.

WASH and Financial Inclusion: A Set of Indicators to Guide the Activities of Impact Investors in the WASH Sector

Mar 07, 2023

e-MFP and Aqua for All are pleased to share the result of an e-MFP WASH Action Group project aiming to identify a set of priority indicators to be used by impact investors when evaluating their potential and existing WASH investments.

e-MFP partner of the EFPA Finance Forum 2023, Luxembourg, 23 March

Mar 03, 2023

e-MFP is proud to be a partner of and panellist at the EFPA Finance Forum 2023 (#EFF23) on ‘Green Ocean and REgenerative FInance’ taking place in Luxembourg, 23 March. #EFF23 is organised by the European Financial Planning Association and will convene public and private actors to discuss how the local and international communities can foster a collective shift towards social, sustainable finance, and how the circular economy will change the post-pandemic asset management and insurance industries.

Conferencia Centroamericana y del Caribe de Microfinanzas - Guatemala, 20-22 de marzo

Mar 02, 2023

e-MFP se complace en ser aliada estratégica de la Conferencia Centroamericana y del Caribe de Microfinanzas, con el tema “Resiliencia y reactivación de las finanzas inclusivas ante la nueva realidad“ - El Reencuentro, organizada por Redcamif y REDIMIF del 20 al 22 de marzo.

Launch of the Triple Jump Financial Inclusion Resilience Fund

Feb 24, 2023

e-MFP member Triple Jump is proud to announce the launch of the Triple Jump Financial Inclusion Resilience Fund (FIRF). The fund will focus on providing subordinated debt to financial intermediaries serving Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSMEs) and low-income borrowers in emerging markets. FIRF aims to serve as a catalyst to improve the solvency position of these financial intermediaries, allowing them to continue and increase their lending activity to MSMEs and low-income borrowers.

EMA2022 - Publicación de 'La inclusión financiera al servicio de la mujer’ / Publication de « L’inclusion financière au service des femmes »

Feb 23, 2023

La Plataforma Europea de Microfinanzas (e-MFP) se complace en anunciar la publicación de ‘La Inclusión Financiera al Servicio de la Mujer’, la última edición de una serie anual de publicaciones que condensa los temas y reúne los casos destacados, así como los factores de éxito del Premio Europeo de Microfinanzas (EMA). La Plateforme Européenne de la Microfinance (e-MFP) a le plaisir d'annoncer la publication de « L’inclusion financière au service des femmes », la dernière édition de la série annuelle qui condense les thèmes et rassemble les cas exceptionnels et les facteurs de succès du Prix Européen de la Microfinance (EMA).

7th European Conference on Microfinance - Report available

Feb 21, 2023

This edition, organised in collaboration with CERMi and supported by the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP), was focused on microfinance research priorities that are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to shape and create the post-pandemic microfinance research agenda.

Save the Date for EMW2023, 15 - 17 November

Feb 20, 2023

European Microfinance Week 2023 is happening in-person in Luxembourg, 15 - 17 November 2023. Mark your calendar now and join us for the key event of the financial inclusion sector gathering 500+ top professionals from all around the world. Further information will be available in the coming months.

Event: Financial Inclusion that Works for Women, 2nd March in London and online

Feb 15, 2023

This joint e-MFP - FIF UK event will discuss the European Microfinance Award 2022 on Financial Inclusion that Works for Women, case studies, factors for success and mainstreaming gender in financial inclusion. This event will be in London and virtual, at 18:30-20:00 GMT

The Financial Inclusion Compass is in the top ten publications of 2022

Jan 20, 2023

In 2022 the FinDev Gateway hosted over 400 publications and we're thrilled that our publication 'The Financial Inclusion Compass' was one of the top ten publications downloaded from the site that year.

Discover the EMW2022 session videos

Jan 17, 2023

Delve into the recordings of the hybrid sessions covering key topics such as climate and green finance, social performance, digital financial inclusion, women's financial inclusion, WASH, refugee finance, client protection and more…

Job Vacancy - Microfinance Advisor, Lendwithcare, CARE Int. UK

Jan 13, 2023

Lendwithcare, a division of CARE International UK, is looking for a Microfinance Advisor. Deadline to apply is 30th January 2023

Check out our December 2022 Newsletter

Jan 05, 2023

Catch up on the latest #financialinclusion news from e-MFP in our newsletter out now!

2022 Publications round up

Dec 13, 2022

e-MFP has had a busy and productive 2022 and this is especially true for publications. A big thank you to all those involved and in case some passed you by, see the complete list:

Meet our new e-MFP Chairwoman, Lucia Spaggiari (MFR)

Dec 12, 2022

Following the e-MFP General Meeting of Members and a Board meeting held on the 1st December 2022, we are delighted to announce that e-MFP has a new Chairwoman - Lucia Spaggiari (MFR). We would like to warmly thank our out-going Chairwoman Laura Hemrika for her support and commitment over the past five years in this role.

e-MFP Members Spotlight on Financial Inclusion that Work for Women

Dec 07, 2022

e-MFP is a member-led platform, and we always want to hear what our members are doing in different fields, to increase linkages and knowledge sharing both across the platform and with other stakeholders. Over 2022, e-MFP reached out with some questions to its members to see who was doing what in the area of this year's European Microfinance Award theme – Financial Inclusion that Works for Women. Thanks to our members for sharing their experience!

e-MFP publishes Financial Inclusion that Works for Women: Lessons and Best Practices from the European Microfinance Award 2022

Dec 06, 2022

The European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) is delighted to announce the publication of Financial Inclusion that Works for Women, the latest in its annual series of publications that condense the themes and pull together the outstanding cases and factors for success from that year’s European Microfinance Award.

Publication of the Green Index 3.0

Dec 05, 2022

Since its first launch, it has become the main framework for assessing the environmental performance of financial services providers (FSP) in green inclusive finance and defining action plans to improve it. This publication documents the update process and presents the new Green Index 3.0, its standards and indicators as well as its scoring system and how it can be digitally accessed and used.

e-MFP 2022 Activity Report is out now!

Dec 02, 2022

2022 has been a year of huge activity at e-MFP. Q1 marked two years since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, and over the course of the year there has been a gradual restoration of pre-2020 life - some in-person events, some return to offices - which is true for e-MFP and its members alike. We hope you find this report interesting, and we'd like to thank all the e-MFP members, the e-MFP Board, our sponsors, funders and the dedicated e-MFP Secretariat, without all of whom none of this would be possible.

Explore the EMW 2022 photo galleries

Dec 01, 2022

Thanks to the record 570 attendees who joined us for hybrid EMW 2022 from 48 countries, 257 of them online!

Catch up on EMW2022 in our plenary session recordings

Dec 01, 2022

Relive the European Microfinance Week ( #EMW2022 ) plenary sessions on 'Building a Responsible Digital Finance Ecosystem'; 'Financial Inclusion that Works for Women' and 'Understanding Financial Education and Financial Health' and 'Big Questions for Today and Tomorrow' in the videos:

What the press is saying about EMW 2022

Nov 30, 2022

Many thanks to our media partners and the Luxembourg press for the excellent coverage of EMW 2022

Call for Advisor - European Microfinance Award 2023

Nov 24, 2022

The European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) is looking for an Advisor to support the European Microfinance Award 2023 which will focus on Food Security & Nutrition, and its aim is to highlight how financial inclusion organisations can innovate in ensuring that low-income people have physical, social and economic access to sufficient safe and nutritious food that meets their needs - particularly in the context of increasing global uncertainty and risks. Deadline to apply is 7th December 2022, 11:59pm CET.

e-MFP’s hybrid European Microfinance Week 2022 closes – with discussion of successes, disappointments, and future opportunities

Nov 22, 2022

European Microfinance Week (#EMW2022), concluded Friday at Luxembourg’s Abbaye de Neümunster with a plenary entitled ‘Big Questions for Today – and Tomorrow’, with CGAP’s CEO Sophie Sirtaine, Marc Labie of UMons, Yannick Milev from Chamroeun in Cambodia, and moderated by Olga Biosca of Glasgow Caledonian University. They were invited to answer three questions – on recent past sector successes, past disappointments, and greatest future opportunities.

Hybrid #EMW2022 opens, with storms weathered, but challenges – internal and external – still ahead

Nov 17, 2022

EMW2022 opened Wednesday with a welcome from e-MFP’s Executive Secretary, Christoph Pausch, who, announcing there were approximately 500 registrations to EMW, said how pleased attendees are to be able to meet once again in person and that despite huge challenges, the sector has shown a remarkable resilience and capacity to adapt and innovate, many examples of which are reflected in the conference programme.

Building a bridge between Financial Health and Financial Education

Oct 27, 2022

A webinar on 2nd November organised by the e-MFP “From Research to Practice and Back Again” Action Group (AG)

Time to Register for European Microfinance Week!

Oct 22, 2022

EMW2022 is back in-person in Luxembourg 16-18 November - join us for over 30 sessions on the critical issues and innovations in the financial inclusion sector.

WEBINAR: How to Promote Gender Equality among Management and Staff in MFIs / Cómo promover la igualdad de género en la gerencia y el personal de las IMFs

Oct 18, 2022

Webinar 25 Oct, 4pm CEST (ENGLISH) & 26 Oct, 5pm CEST (ESPAÑOL): How to Promote Gender Equality among Management and Staff in MFIs / Cómo promover la igualdad de género en la gerencia y el personal de las IMFs

e-MFP’s Financial Inclusion Compass 2022 published in English, Spanish and French, describing current trends, future priority areas, challenges, opportunities – and evolution of the sector’s infrastructure

Oct 05, 2022

e-MFP is delighted to publish the 'Financial Inclusion Compass 2022' – the fifth in a series to collate sector opinions on emerging short, medium, and long-term trends in the financial inclusion sector. The survey on which this paper is based was open in May and June 2022, giving practitioners, funders, researchers, and support service providers the opportunity to evaluate and describe the importance of various current Trends, rate and give opinions on Future Priority Areas, and provide open-comment qualitative input on the expected (and hoped-for) direction of financial inclusion progress.

Training on GREEN INDEX 3.0 for FSPs - in English (11 Oct or 8 Nov), Spanish (13 Oct or 10 Nov) & French (12 Oct or 10 Nov)

Sep 27, 2022

The e-MFP Green Inclusive and Climate Smart Finance Action Group (GICSF-AG) is pleased to invite all Financial Services Providers (FSP) to participate in an exclusive free training on the Green Index 3.0.

Finalists for the European Microfinance Award 2022 on 'Financial Inclusion that Works for Women' announced

Sep 26, 2022

Bancamía from Colombia; Banco FIE from Bolivia; and Kashf Foundation from Pakistan are announced as finalists who will go on to compete for the €100,000 prize.

What’s Next? e-MFP webinar to present findings from the Financial Inclusion Compass 2022

Sep 22, 2022

The Financial Inclusion Compass 2022 is the fifth edition in this series, and we were delighted to launch it at a webinar on 5 October, led by author e-MFP’s Sam Mendelson, and joined by Stuart Rutherford and Apricot Wilson as respondent discussants.

Why should WASH matter to impact investors – new publications from the e-MFP WASH Action Group

Sep 21, 2022

Globally, 2.1 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, while 4.5 billion people lack access to adequate sanitation. The urgent investment required in the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector, especially in developing countries, to meet the 2030 goals of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 – ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, will not be achieved without attracting more private finance to the sector

Supporting managers in their HRD role

Sep 12, 2022

The second webinar in this series, hosted by the ILO's Social Finance Programme, takes place on 22 September (15:00 CEST) and focuses on supporting managers in their HRD role. During this session, three financial services providers in Bolivia, Lebanon and the Philippines will share their HR practices and lessons learned from successfully developing a strong in-house system of HR practices into their staff management processes.

WEBINAR RECORDING: How to align the HR function and business strategy for organisational success - Lessons learned from the e-MFP HR AG's survey and voices from the field

Sep 08, 2022

Watch the recording of this webinar, organised by e-MFP in collaboration with the ILO’s Social Finance Programme, during which Isabelle Katthagen and Dr. Elisabeth Niendorf of the Academy of German Cooperatives shared their deep knowledge of the technical and leadership aspects of the HR function and two Financial Services Provider (FSP) representatives shared their HR practices and lessons learned from bringing the HR function into the strategic discussions of their institutions.

LabODD Webinar Series on September 13 & 20

Sep 06, 2022

On September 13 and 20, in collaboration with the e-MFP Investors Action Group and SPTF, Cerise SDG Lab is organising two webinars with investors and financial institutions to discuss the way to harmonize and push for Outcomes Management.

WEBINAR 1 Sept: 'How can microfinance improve climate change adaptation? The experiences of Rwandan smallholder farmers & research outlook'

Aug 23, 2022

The Heads of the e-MFP Green Inclusive and Climate-Smart Finance Action Group, Natalia Realpe Carrillo and Davide Forcella, are pleased to invite you to a webinar series next Thursday, September 1, at 4 pm CEST. Professor Olga Biosca at the Glasgow Caledonian University will share the results of a research project in Rwanda on how MFI clients manage climate change effects and what MFIs can do to support them. For researchers and practitioners, further research questions in green microfinance will be discussed.

New Scale2Save Report: 'Unpacking the customer through demand side data'

Jul 27, 2022

WSBI's programme Scale2Save has released a new case study, the sixth of its State of the Savings and Retail Banking Sector in Africa research series, which focuses on examples of financial service providers using data to better understand & serve low-income people.

Missed some of our publications? Catch up on your reading with this selection on financial inclusion

Jul 20, 2022

Summer Reading from e-MFP - Catch up with this selection on financial inclusion

Aqua for All and Family Bank signed a deal focused on community-based water service providers

Jul 15, 2022

e-MFP member Aqua for All has signed a two-year partnership agreement with Family Bank Ltd in Kenya. This first-of-its-kind partnership will establish an un-secured loan facility targeting community-based water service providers (CWPs). CWPs supply low-income households with safe drinking water through piping systems or water kiosks.

Making Insurance Inclusive For All: A concrete step in closing the protection gap

Jul 05, 2022

This year e-MFP member the Microinsurance Network is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Here we take a look at the past, present and future ambitions of the Network, and discover how it is enabling inclusive insurance for all.

Check out our July 2022 Newsletter

Jul 05, 2022

Catch up on the latest #financialinclusion news from e-MFP in our newsletter out now!

Highlights from the 7th European Research Conference on Microfinance

Jul 04, 2022

The Yunus Centre for Social Business and Health, Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU), was the proud host of the 7th European Research Conference on Microfinance which took place from 20th to 22nd June 2022 at GCU’s Glasgow campus, supported by e-MFP and CERMi. This first ERCM after the COVID-19 pandemic, focused on microfinance research priorities that are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Invitation for Expressions of Interest Pre-qualification of candidates for portfolio management services to: The Microfinance Enhancement Facility

Jun 30, 2022

The Microfinance Enhancement Facility (MEF) is launching a two-stage tender process to select 2 to 3 portfolio managers to implement, advance and manage MEF's new gender-smart investment strategy. Deadline for submitting Expression of Interest is Monday, 1st August 2022, noon CEST.

Webinar 30 June: '10 years of green inclusive finance assessment: What data says, how the sector evolved, where do we stand and where do we want to go'

Jun 22, 2022

This webinar, presented by the heads of the GICSF-AG, will disclose the main findings of the analysis of the green audit database, focusing on the evolution of green inclusive finance performance, along its different standards, in the period 2011-2019 between diverse regions and FSP types.

Best Graduate Paper Award winners at the 7th European Research Conference on Microfinance

Jun 22, 2022

During the 7th European Research Conference on Microfinance, the winners of the Best Graduate Paper Award, sponsored by the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) were announced - 1st place: Naome Otiti and 2nd place: Anaëlle Petr.

Sustainable insurance: a meeting of two worlds, 6 July

Jun 21, 2022

The 55th Midi de la microfinance et de l'inclusion financière brings together three e-MFP members ADA, InFiNe.lu and Microinsurance Network for a discussion on 'Sustainable insurance: a meeting of two worlds' in-person in Luxembourg on 6th July.

New Aqua for All and Oikocredit partnership to invest in community water and sanitation

Jun 14, 2022

e- MFP members Aqua for All and Oikocredit International launched a two-year partnership to increase access to finance for water and sanitation enterprises and households in Africa and Asia.

60 Decibels Microfinance Index report

Jun 08, 2022

Numerous e-MFP members have supported the 60 Decibels Microfinance Index report, the world’s first financial inclusion social performance report grounded in customer voice. This report shows the comparative social performance of 72 microfinance organizations, based exclusively on what was heard from 17,956 of their clients. Collectively, these MFIs are serving more than 25 million clients in 41 countries, more than 15% of all microfinance clients globally

Webinar recording: Data Analytics for Financial Inclusion - Examples of Successful African FSPs

May 19, 2022

One of the main challenges FSPs face in serving the low income customer is understanding their needs. How do they translate external information into meaningful insights to support their product design and rollout, distribution strategies and more. Learn more in the webinar recording.

e-MFP launches Financial Inclusion Compass 2022 survey, with new trends and priority areas

May 11, 2022

Financial Inclusion Compass survey 2022 - share your views on the future of the sector. This fifth edition of the e-MFP Compass survey builds on last year’s survey with new questions, trends and priority areas, based on research and feedback from e-MFP’s amazing network. So, there are new trends and priority areas to evaluate - on financial health, strategic responses to climate change, impact evaluation and new financial technologies such as machine learning, cryptocurrencies and blockchain, among others. We hope you’ll take the time to participate. The survey is open from 11th May and will close at 23:59 CEST on 7th June.

Webinar: ESG tools and platforms to implement SFDR and EU Taxonomy, 2 June

May 06, 2022

e-MFP member LuxFLAG, in partnership with FactSet and Greenomy, will discuss during the webinar ESG tools to implement SFDR and the EU Taxonomy as well as current trends and events that have spurred the development of ESG solutions and how those solutions can help.

Luxembourg Pledges Continued Support to e-MFP

May 03, 2022

We're delighted to announce that on 2nd May, the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) signed a new agreement with the Luxembourg Government for the period 2022 – 2026, which guarantees the financial support required for implementing our new Strategic Plan. Since its foundation in 2006, e-MFP has grown a strong base of 130 members from across the microfinance and financial inclusion sector. Anchored by the support and commitment of the Luxembourgish government, e-MFP is recognised as a leading player in the Europe-based financial inclusion and microfinance space that provides valuable networking and thought leadership opportunities for members and the broader sector.

Webinar 21 April: 'Microfinanzas verdes, ¿cómo estamos hoy? Creando espacios de conocimiento y oportunidades'

Apr 15, 2022

Join the e-MFP Green Inclusive and Climate-Smart Finance Action Group webinar in Spanish on 21 April.

European Microfinance Award 2022 Receives Unprecedented Response

Apr 14, 2022

A record 88 organisations from 47 countries applied to Round 1 of the European Microfinance Award 2022 on ‘Financial Inclusion that Works for Women’, this unprecedented response illustrates the enormous importance the sector places on this topic – and the diversity of initiatives underway. Thank you to all applicants!

Keynote Speakers - 7th European Research Conference on Microfinance, 20-22 June

Apr 07, 2022

Excited to see the impressive line-up of Keynote Speakers for the 7th European Research Conference on Microfinance, supported by European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) which will be held on 20th-22nd June, 2022 in person at the Yunus Centre for Social Business and Health at Glasgow Caledonian University: Professor Muhammad Yunus; Professor Robert Lensink; Dr Caroline Shenaz Hossein; Professor Mario L. Small.

Webinar Recording: Scaling Informal Small Savings Groups in the World’s Poorest Communities: The Next Financial Inclusion Revolution

Apr 07, 2022

What if the most transparent and community minded leaders of informal savings groups were provided with a financial nudge to train more groups? The organizers of these groups, with over half a billion members, are the experts. Watch the recording of our webinar - the panelists from Ghana, Yemen, Nepal, Mexico, India, and Korea have a wealth of practical experience on how to achieve what we consider the revolutionary next step in financial inclusion.

Nigerian Microfinance Platform annual symposium, 28 April

Apr 06, 2022

e-MFP member the Nigerian Microfinance Platform (NMP) holds its annual symposium with this year's theme “Expanding the Frontiers of Financial Inclusion Through Innovation: The MicroFintech Tools”, on 28th April in Wuse Abuja, Nigeria.

Catch up on the EMA2022 Application Guidance sessions in EN/SP/FR

Mar 23, 2022

Missed the Application Guidance sessions (EN/FR/SP) for the €100,000 European Microfinance Award 2022 ‘Financial Inclusion that Works for Women’? You can watch the recordings now.

Webinar 6 April: CP Pathway Implementation Series #5 from SPTF-CERISE

Mar 21, 2022

Governance helps to set the culture and strategy of an organisation. Therefore, the understanding and buy-in of the board on client protection is vital to its effective implantation. This webinar hosted by SPTF-CERISE, will review the role of the board and senior management in ensuring that strong client protection practices are incorporated and sustained in a financial institution

Check out our March 2022 Newsletter

Mar 17, 2022

Catch up on the latest #financialinclusion news from e-MFP in our newsletter out now!

Block your calendar for #EMW2022

Mar 15, 2022

Join us for European Microfinance Week during 16 - 18 November, further information will be available in the coming months.

Apply/Postulez/Postular - European Microfinance Award 2022

Mar 14, 2022

The European Microfinance Award 2022 'Financial Inclusion that Works for Women' is now open to organisations working in financial inclusion that aim to understand and meet women's challenges and aspirations in order to go beyond traditional gender outreach strategies.

[Job offer] Programme Coordinator (maternity cover – 12 months)

Mar 09, 2022

To support the organization of the European Microfinance Week, manage the European Microfinance Award, assist e-MFP’s research projects, and contribute to the objectives of the e-MFP.

EMW2021 discussions and recordings on women’s financial inclusion

Mar 07, 2022

In the run up to International Women's Day 2022, #IWD22, delve into the #EMW2021 discussions and recordings on women’s financial inclusion

New Report: Outcomes Management for Financial Service Providers: A proposed standard framework aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals

Mar 03, 2022

e-MFP is pleased to launch the report "Outcomes Management for Financial Service Providers: A proposed standard framework aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals". With this report, e-MFP and its partners CERISE and SPTF aim to contribute to building a framework of actionable indicators based on the SDG targets that can answer the need for a simple, credible methodology to monitor outcomes: one that is built on a well-defined social strategy and theory of change, and that is assessed regularly through internal data management systems.

Research project on 'COVID-19 and the Financial Inclusion Value Chain' [Full report release]

Mar 02, 2022

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic severely affected many countries worldwide. As a result, the financial inclusion value chain has been exposed to unprecedented challenges and risks, whose effects are likely to be long-lasting. The e-MFP 'From Research to Practice and Back Again' Action Group conducted a research project seeking to analyse comprehensively these challenges and risks faced by the financial inclusion value chain actors during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research explores the point of view of clients, Financial Service Provider (FSPs), investors, policymakers, and regulators to identify new arising opportunities and lessons learned that can be generally applied to crises with a global reach, such as the climate change.

European Microfinance Award 2022 / Prix européen de la Microfinance 2022 / Premio Europeo de las Microfinanzas 2022

Mar 01, 2022

Mark your calendar - call for applications opens on 14th March. Application guidance sessions in EN, FR or SP during 21-23 March.

Discover the EMW2021 Conference Report

Feb 23, 2022

Delve into the extensive summaries plus full recordings of the EMW2021 sessions covering key topics such as climate change and green finance, social performance, digital financial inclusion, access to health care, impact of and response to covid-19, women's financial inclusion, client protection and more….

Webinar 28 Feb: How Can FSPs Ensure Access to Affordable Health Care?

Feb 16, 2022

The Financial Inclusion Forum UK (FIF UK) and the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) are pleased to invite you to join us for a webinar discussion on how financial service providers can increase access to affordable health care for low-income and vulnerable communities.

Digital Technology at the Heart of the Strategic Orientation of MFIs

Feb 10, 2022

The 8th survey in the joint series by e-MFP members ADA, Inpulse Investment Manager and the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation on the effects of the Covid-19 crisis on their partner microfinance institutions (MFIs) highlights the importance of digital in the strategic orientations of MFIs.

Gender-Aware Supervision Toolkit

Feb 04, 2022

In collaboration with USAID, e-MFP member Toronto Centre designed this toolkit to assist financial supervisors from emerging markets with integrating gender dimensions into their supervisory practices. It is a practical, hands-on resource intended to highlight the relevance of gender inclusion and awareness to supervisory authorities and support them in taking their next steps towards more gender-aware supervision.

Release of the Spanish & French versions of the publication "The First Wealth is Health"

Feb 02, 2022

¡Comparte! /Partagez! /Share around! EMA2021 publication on 'Inclusive Finance & Health Care' now available in EN, SP & FR

Webinar 27 Jan: Barriers, Bias, and Banking: Balancing needs and risks related to gender and unintended consequences of financial services

Jan 24, 2022

Join this English/Spanish webinar to learn about “Barriers, Bias & Banking: Balancing needs & risks related to gender and unintended consequences of financial services,” hosted by e-MFP members SPTF & Grameen Foundation.

WSBI is hiring - Advisor for the African region

Jan 16, 2022

The World Savings and Retail Banking Institute are looking for a 'Adviser for the African region'.

New case study explores the potential of digital platforms to serve the agricultural sector in Africa

Dec 21, 2021

The World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI) programme for financial inclusion, Scale2Save, has launched ‘A case study on digital platforms serving the agricultural sector’, the fifth of its State of the Savings and Retail Banking Sector in Africa research series.

7th European Research Conference on Microfinance, Glasgow, June 2022 - Call for papers now open

Dec 16, 2021

The 7th European Conference on Microfinance will be held on 20th-22nd June, 2022 at the Yunus Centre for Social Business & Health, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, United Kingdom. For more information about how to submit an abstract and the ERCM conference please visit the website: https://www.ercm2022.com/

Season's Greetings from e-MFP

Dec 16, 2021

Season's Greetings and warmest wishes for 2022 from e-MFP!

#EMW2021 Plenaries replay

Dec 16, 2021

Thank you to the 500+ participants, our stellar speakers, e-MFP members, generous sponsors and supporters who joined us during 17-19 November for virtual #EMW2021. We are currently working on the extensive conference report but in the meantime, re-visit our plenary session recordings:

Check out our December Newsletter

Dec 16, 2021

Catch up on the latest #financialinclusion news from European Microfinance Platform, e-MFP in our newsletter out now! With: our 4 exciting #emw2021 plenary recordings; best practices & lessons learned from EMA2021; round up of e-MFP 2021 publications; our blog series on #HR development practices; our Action Group's recent #green #inclusivefinance webinars; introduction to our new board members, and more...

2021 publications round up

Dec 15, 2021

e-MFP has had a busy and productive 2021 and this is especially true for publications. A big thank you to all those involved and in case some passed you by, see the complete list

New faces on the e-MFP Board

Dec 10, 2021

During the e-MFP General Meeting of Members held online on the 2nd December, several new board members were elected. We would like to wecome and introduce Alain Lévy from BNP Paribas, Lucia Spaggiari from MFR and Laura Viganò from University of Bergamo

e-MFP Activity Report 2021 Out Now!

Dec 03, 2021

If 2020 was the most challenging year in e-MFP's history, 2021 comes a close second. This annual activity report provides a summary to our members of what we have been doing this year – from Covid-specific workstreams to Action Groups, publications and new communications models – and to put these activities in the context of what e-MFP has planned for the future, always ensuring that everything we do is responsive to the concerns, ideas and priorities of our members and the financial inclusion sector at large.

Call for Advisor - European Microfinance Award 2022

Nov 30, 2021

e-MFP is looking for an Advisor to support the European Microfinance Award 2022 which will focus on financial inclusion for women and its aim is to highlight financial inclusion initiatives that go beyond traditional outreach metrics and instead focus on women's needs, hopes and challenges - and respond accordingly. Deadline to apply is 13th December 2021.

e-MFP publishes The First Wealth is Health: Lessons and Best Practices from the European Microfinance Award 2021 on ‘Inclusive Finance & Health Care’

Nov 29, 2021

The European Microfinance Platform is delighted to announce the publication of 'The First Wealth is Health', the latest in its annual series of publications that condense the themes and pull together the outstanding cases and factors for success from that year’s European Microfinance Award (EMA). For almost everyone in the world this year, health care has been at the forefront of their minds. Covid-19 has put all countries’ health care systems under a microscope, and one legacy of the pandemic will undoubtedly be a re-thinking of how all societies take care of their most vulnerable people. 'The First Wealth is Health' condenses the themes, pulls together the outstanding cases and factors for success from the 2021 European Microfinance Award on Inclusive Finance and Health Care.

e-MFP’s online European Microfinance Week 2021 closes – with climate change, impact measurement, health care, and financial inclusion for women top of the sector’s agenda

Nov 22, 2021

European Microfinance Week (#EMW2021), online for the second consecutive year, concluded Friday with a plenary entitled Crisis and opportunity – where do we go from here?’ in which a panel of senior speakers representing different stakeholder groups looked back over the period of the pandemic and discussed what changes – better or worse – will endure.

EMW2021 - What the press are saying

Nov 22, 2021

Many thanks to our media partners and the Luxembourg press for the excellent coverage of EMW 2021

Fonkoze has won the €100,000 prize awarded by the Directorate for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs of the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs

Nov 19, 2021

Three financial service providers from the South were in the running to receive the 2021 European Microfinance Award, which focused this year on projects that promote access for vulnerable populations to high-quality healthcare at an affordable price.

Online #EMW2021 Opens, with Call to Action on Climate Change and Women’s Empowerment

Nov 17, 2021

For the second straight year, European Microfinance Week 2021 is online. Opening today, the annual conference typically welcomes over 500 professionals to Luxembourg from around the world leading global experts, opinion-leaders, policy-makers and investors from the financial inclusion sector.

Webinar on 11 Nov: 'Transforming MFIs for a greener and more inclusive finance'

Nov 10, 2021

The Heads of the e-MFP Green Inclusive and Climate-Smart Finance Action Group, Natalia Realpe Carrillo and Davide Forcella, are pleased to invite you to a webinar series this Thursday, November 11, at 4 pm CET. Agustín Vitórica, founder and Co-CEO of GAWA Capital will share his experience on the role of social impact funds in promoting green strategies in the microfinance sector.

LANZAMIENTO DE LA VERSIÓN ESPAÑOLA DEL FINANCIAL INCLUSION COMPASS 2021

Nov 09, 2021

Nos complace anunciar la publicación de la versión española del Financial Inclusion Compass 2021, la cuarta edición de una serie diseñada para recoger las opiniones de la industria sobre las nuevas tendencias a corto, medio y largo plazo en el sector de la inclusión financiera.

GREEN INDEX 3.0: CURSOS DE FORMACIÓN Y RECOPILACIÓN DE DATOS PARA LOS PSF

Oct 26, 2021

El Grupo de Acción para las Finanzas Verdes Inclusivas y Climáticamente Inteligentes de la Plataforma Europea de las Microfinanzas (GICSF AG) está organizando cursos de formación en línea sobre el Green Index 3.0 para los proveedores de servicios financieros (PSF) interesados en saber más sobre la evaluación y la gestión del rendimiento de las finanzas verdes inclusivas. La formación incluirá la recopilación de datos sobre el rendimiento medioambiental de los PSF y se impartirá en tres idiomas (en inglés el 8 de noviembre, en español el 10 de noviembre y en francés el 12 de noviembre).

GREEN INDEX 3.0: FORMATIONS ET COLLECTE DE DONNÉES POUR LES PSF

Oct 26, 2021

Le Groupe d'Action de l’e-MFP « Finance verte inclusive et intelligente face au climat » (GICSF AG) organise des formations en ligne sur le Green Index 3.0 pour les prestataires de services financiers (PSF) désireux d'en savoir plus sur l'évaluation et la gestion de la performance de la finance verte inclusive. La formation inclura la collecte de données sur la performance environnementale des PSF et se déroulera en trois langues (en anglais le 8 Nov, en espagnol le 10 novembre et en français le 12 novembre).

The Client Protection Pathway Implementation Series Webinar #1- Overview of the new CP Pathway and CP Certification

Oct 25, 2021

Get updated on the latest client protection developments in the industry! A lot has happened since the closure of the Smart Campaign in late 2020--in particular, the launch of the CERISE + SPTF Client Protection Pathway. The CP Pathway, the new Client Protection Certification program, and the resources available to support financial service providers will be explained.

Pilot initiative: EMW2021 Training Days

Oct 19, 2021

e-MFP is pleased to announce the launch of the first EMW 2021 Training Days, conducted within the framework of European Microfinance Week 2021. Taking place on the 15th and 16th of November, this is an online training programme, hosted and convened by e-MFP, aiming to bring our members and other financial inclusion actors together to build capacity, reduce knowledge and skills gaps, and learn from some of the world's best training providers in the digital and financial inclusion sector.

Green Index 3.0: Trainings and Data collection for FSPs

Oct 19, 2021

The Green Inclusive and Climate-Smart Finance Action Group (GICSF AG) is organizing online trainings on the Green Index 3.0 for FSPs interested to know more about the assessment and management of green inclusive finance performance. The training will include data gathering on FSPs environmental performance.

Lancement de la version française du Financial Inclusion Compass 2021

Oct 14, 2021

C’est avec plaisir que nous vous annonçons la publication de la version française du Financial Inclusion Compass 2021 - le quatrième d'une série visant à recueillir les opinions du secteur sur les tendances émergentes à court, moyen et long terme dans le secteur de l'inclusion financière.

What's in store at European Microfinance Week 2021?

Oct 13, 2021

Connect with the key players of the sector and discover the insights and innovations that are shaping the future of inclusive finance.

Save the date - 7th European Research Conference on Microfinance

Oct 11, 2021

We are pleased to announce that the 7th European Research Conference on Microfinance will take place on 20-22 June 2022 at Glasgow Caledonian University, Scotland, UK. The conference is organised by the Glasgow Caledonian University in collaboration with the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP).

New case study on digitalisation financial service providers to serve low-income customers

Oct 11, 2021

Digitalisation is revolutionising the way financial service providers conduct their business. This new publication explores the answers to a question that many executives are asking: How best to digitalise a financial institution? The case study draws upon management consulting literature to assess digitalisation strategies in a pragmatic way. It also assesses three leading African financial organisations against this framework: Al Barid Bank, Morocco; Equity Bank, Kenya; and Consolidated Bank, Ghana.

Finalists for the European Microfinance Award 2021 on 'Inclusive Finance & Health Care' announced

Sep 28, 2021

Crecer IFD from Bolivia; Dreamlopments Ltd. from Thailand; and Fonkoze from Haiti announced as finalists

EMW 2021: registration now open!

Sep 23, 2021

We’re excited for you to join us from wherever you are in the world and connect for three days of knowledge exchange, peer to peer learning and the chance to engage with thought leaders from the financial inclusion sector.

INVITATION: 'Digital climate risk management: the case of Fundación Génesis Empresarial' - Webinar on September 23, 4 pm CEST

Sep 20, 2021

The Heads of the e-MFP's Green Inclusive and Climate-Smart Finance Action Group, Natalia Realpe Carrillo and Davide Forcella, are pleased to invite you to the webinar series this Thursday, September 23, at 16:00 CEST with Christoph Jungfleisch from YAPU Solutions and Ricardo Romero from Fundación Génesis Empresarial.

Webinar: Lifting the Fog: ATLAS Data for Financial Inclusion, 30th September

Sep 10, 2021

This webinar introduces ATLAS, a data platform which provides an all-in-one approach to data management in financial inclusion, from data reporting to analytics and benchmarking. Launched in 2020, ATLAS centralizes data from financial service providers on pricing, client protection, social and financial performance, providing a solution that helps make the financial inclusion industry accountable.

Launch of new inititiative 'Scale for Resilience', 14th September

Sep 09, 2021

Join e-MFP member Yapu and other members of the e-MFP Green Inclusive & Climate Smart Finance Action Group in the launch of the new initiative 'Scale for Resilience' happening on 14th September (in Spanish)

WEBINAR: Identifying vulnerabilities - Insights from the IMPACT-R project assessing microfinance customers’ access to basic services

Sep 07, 2021

The heads of the Green Inclusive and Climate Smart Finance Action Group are pleased to invite you to our webinar series this Thursday, September 9th, at 4 pm CET. We will be presenting the insights from the Impact-Driven and Action-Based Research project, IMPACT-R, identifying and assessing customers' vulnerabilities in regard to covered basic needs at household level. In particular, we will be sharing about the methods used, the role of digital tools, the experiences in field work, and most importantly, the “why” of this project.

Launch of 'Human Resource Development practices in the microfinance sector' by e-MFP HR AG

Aug 31, 2021

e-MFP's Human Resources (HR) Action Group has published the report 'Human Resource Development practices in the microfinance sector'. This publication, prepared by Cheryl Frankiewicz, is the result of the HR Action Group's research journey to map out the current landscape of Human Resource Development (HRD) practices among microfinance institutions (MFIs), and to shed some light on the relationship between HR practices and MFI performance.

MFC’s Social Finance Vibe Conference, 14-16 September online

Aug 30, 2021

The 23rd MFC Annual Conference – MFC’s first-ever fully virtual networking event – is a perfect opportunity for social finance professionals to network, share ideas, learn from an impressive line-up of guests and lay the groundwork for successful future partnerships.

Passing away of Sachin Vankalas

Jul 19, 2021

It is with great sadness that the Board and the Secretariat of the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) have to inform you that our Board member Sachin Vankalas passed away on 15 July 2021. Sachin had been ill for several weeks due to complications associated with Covid. He was only 38 and leaves a young family. We are all deeply shocked and we are, of course, thinking first and foremost of his family.

Public Feedback round Green Index 3.0 & Dim 7 USSPM

Jul 15, 2021

The Green Index is the main tool for FSPs’ environmental performance assessment. It was developed in 2014 by the e-MFP Green Inclusive and Climate Smart Finance Action Group (GICSF-AG) and updated to the 2.0 version in 2016. This year the GICSF AG is updating the Green Index to Green Index 3.0 and SPTF, CERISE and e-MFP’s GICSF AG have joined forces to develop the Environmental Management Dimension (i.e. Dim 7) of the Universal Standards for Social Performance Management (USSPM). After almost one year of joint work, more than 250 stakeholders, more than 40 reviewers involved and above 3000 inputs received, we are pleased to present you the current status of the Green Index 3.0 & Dim 7 USSPM.

Webinar: 'How FinTech regulation drives financial inclusion?' - 20 July, 2021

Jul 13, 2021

Financial Innovations are disrupting the financial services industry bringing tangible benefits to the end users. However, new technologies pose new risks that need to be addressed in order to provide a secure framework so that financial entities and users can interact. FinTech regulation aims to create this framework, more than being a tight set of rules, modern regulation is based on principles such as financial inclusion or the promotion of fair competence. This webinar will take a look at practical uses to show how the regulation can be implemented to create a better financial services environment that is inclusive and efficient.

Check out our July Newsletter

Jul 12, 2021

Our latest Newsletter is now out - check out our recent news & activities: 'The First Wealth is Health' - webinar recording on inclusive finance and health care presenting the current health care landscape; Guest blog 'Hospital Cash: A Game-Changer for Enabling Financial Inclusion in the Post-COVID Economy' from Gilles Renouil, Women's World Banking; Joint publication from e-MFP and CFI 'Weathering the Storm II: Tales of Survival from Microfinance Crises Past'; 'Using Past Crises to Prepare for the Post-Covid Recovery' - Webinar recording exploring lessons learned from past crisis experience help face the COVID-19 crisis and prepare for the coming recovery; 'Financial Inclusion Compass 2021' - new publication and webinar launch; Update on e-MFP and SPTF collaboration on EU sustainable finance regulations; The most recent webinars from our Green Inclusive and Climate Smart Action Group; New e-MFP Action Groups launched - on savings and on WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene).

Where do we go now? Webinar launch of e-MFP’s Financial Inclusion Compass 2021 publication

Jul 07, 2021

On 7 July a webinar hosted by the European Microfinance Platform in partnership with FinDev Gateway explored findings from the survey. The Financial Inclusion Compass 2021 will be published in English, Spanish, and French, and we are pleased to kick off the launch with this English-language webinar.

Financial Inclusion Compass 2021 publication launched

Jul 07, 2021

e-MFP’s English-language Financial Inclusion Compass 2021 publication is launched, examining current trends, future focus areas, challenges, role changes – and how to ‘build back better’.

e-MFP and SPTF collaborate on EU sustainable finance regulations

Jul 06, 2021

With the recent rapid growth of impact investing and the accompanying concerns over "green-washing" and "impact-washing," the European Commission has been working on a package of regulations to ensure that impact and sustainable finance investments are carried out within a standardized reporting framework. This includes, among others, the recently published Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) and associated publications.

New e-MFP Action Groups launched - on savings and on WASH

Jul 05, 2021

Action Groups (AG) are an important part of e-MFP activities allowing members to join forces and work together on specific projects and activities in areas of common interest. e-MFP is delighted to announce the launch of 2 new AGs - the 'Better Metrics for Effective Savings’ and the WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) Action Group.

STUDY ON WASH AND FINANCIAL INCLUSION - Terms of Reference

Jul 01, 2021

The e-MFP WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene) Action Group aims to tackle key information/knowledge gaps in the water and sanitation sector, and to map and define water and sanitation indicators that can be widely used by different stakeholders in the financial inclusion sector, particularly by the investors in their decisions.

Recording: 'Weathering the Storm II: Using past crises to prepare for the post-covid recovery'

Jun 30, 2021

Weathering the Storm II synthesizes the experiences and lessons from 16 institutions in 14 countries on four continents that faced a variety of crises over 15-year period. Its aim is to use these lessons to inform those facing future crises, including the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch the fascinating discussion from our webinar which draws on the recent publication.

Oikocredit is looking for a new Managing Director

Jun 25, 2021

Oikocredit is looking for an inspirational and visionary Managing Director to lead the impact into the future. The deadline for application is 26 July 2021.

TC Webinar series: Building Back Better, June/July

Jun 22, 2021

This Toronto Centre webinar series will examine the challenging role central bankers and supervisors play in supporting a sustainable, inclusive economic recovery while maintaining financial stability. Distinguished panelists will explore the opportunities and challenges arising from increasing digitization and climate change for financial stability and inclusion.

Environmental performance assessment, what the sector says - Use, simplicity and relevance of indicators for environmental performance assessment

Jun 22, 2021

Five years after the implementation of the Green Index 2.0, as one of the preparation activities of the Green Index 3.0, the GICSF AG has launched a series of surveys and conducted interviews with different stakeholders in order to understand the needs related to environmental performance, and the relevance of the different indicators of the tool.

Call for PhD Applications on Savings Groups, CERSEM University of Agder

Jun 21, 2021

CERSEM - Center for Research on Social Enterprises and Microfinance, University of Agder (UiA) is searching for two highly motivated and talented candidates for PhD studies at one of Europe's leading PhD programs.

EMW2021 is online 17 - 19 November!

Jun 11, 2021

While it is difficult to predict the progression of the pandemic, it remains likely that travel restrictions will still apply in the coming months and that participants from the global South will be unable to come to Luxembourg during the conference period. In order to ensure an international conference with the participation of stakeholders from all around the world, e-MFP has therefore decided to organise European Microfinance Week 2021 virtually, 17 to 19 November, building on the excellent experience from the 2020 edition.

Recording: Webinar on Financing Climate Change Adaptation and Nature-Based Solutions - Opportunities and Learning from Global Environment Facility Investments

Jun 11, 2021

There is growing awareness that ‘nature-based solutions' (NbS) can help to protect the planet from climate change impacts while slowing further warming, supporting biodiversity and securing ecosystem services. The Green Inclusive and Climate Smart Finance Action Group hosted a webinar on 10th June during which Jason Spensley, specialist from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), shared key lessons learned for the green inclusive sector.

Persistent credit risk: A threat to the solvency of microfinance institutions?

Jun 09, 2021

The 6th survey in the series conducted by e-MFP members Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation, ADA and Inpulse Investment Manager on the impact of the COVID19 crisis in the microfinance sector focuses on the threat that credit risk may pose to the solvency of MFIs.

Call for Interest: European Research Conference on Microfinance

Jun 02, 2021

Every two years since 2009, the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) and the Centre for European Research in Microfinance (CERMi), in partnership with a broad group of European Universities, organise the European Research Conference on Microfinance. e-MFP is launching this call for interest to host the 7th edition of the conference.

e-MFP and CFI release a major new publication - Weathering the Storm II: Tales of Survival from Microfinance Crises Past

Jun 01, 2021

Weathering the Storm II (WTS), a joint publication of European Microfinance Platform and the Center for Financial Inclusion, supported by the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, brings together the experience of 16 different institutions that dealt with crisis and makes it available to all. These case studies come from 14 countries on four continents, including nearly every type of institution — from NGO to bank.

Recording: ‘The First Wealth is Health’: An e-MFP Webinar on Inclusive Finance and Health Care

May 28, 2021

Watch the recording of the e-MFP webinar with an outstanding panel of experts presenting the current health care landscape, including the needs of low-income households and the costs they must bear to access health care, the role of different financial products such as insurance as well as crucial non-financial support, the particular health care needs of women, and the roles that financial services providers can play to address this enormous challenge.

Last chance to share your insights in the Financial Inclusion Compass 2021 survey

May 10, 2021

Share your forecasts for the future of the financial inclusion sector - survey closes 31st May

The third snapshot in the Covid-19 CGAP-Symbiotics series is available

May 03, 2021

This latest update confirms that the microfinance sector remains resilient and on its way to a cautious and gradual recovery, but the pace depends on type of institution, region, and capital buffers.

Webinar recording: Improving lives with water & sanitation loans

Apr 30, 2021

Aware of the need for construction and improvement of sanitation services in some areas of the country, MiCrédito has a special line of credit that finances the construction and improvement of sanitation services in those areas that do not have adequate sanitation systems. Veronica Herrera, CEO of MiCrédito, shares their experience as a microfinance institution providing WASH loans in rural and peri-urban areas of Nicaragua.

Weathering the Storm II - portfolio chart

Apr 29, 2021

Weathering the Storm II - portfolio chart

Check out the April e-MFP Newsletter

Apr 22, 2021

Our latest Newsletter is now out - check out our recent news & activities: Update on the European Microfinance Award 2021 on Inclusive Finance and Health Care; guest blog 'Five to thrive! Embedding health in financial services' from Craig Churchill & Lisa Morgan, ILO; interview with Muktinath Bikas Bank of Nepal on their savings products and; the most recent webinars from our Green Inclusive and Climate Smart Action Group.

43 Organisations apply to Round 1 of EMA 2021 on ‘Inclusive Finance and Health Care’

Apr 15, 2021

Round 1 of the European Microfinance Award 2021 on ‘Inclusive Finance and Health Care’ has closed, and we received a fantastic response from organisations working in the financial inclusion sector around the world who are increasing access to affordable and quality health care for low-income communities.

Can energy and financial access be brought at once? Research results and experiences from BrightLife and future plans of Penda Capital in Uganda

Apr 07, 2021

To kick off our second quarter webinar series, we eagerly discussed the challenges, opportunities, and learnings encountered by BrightLife and Penda Capital on its journeys to boost financing for clean energy technologies in rural areas in Uganda.

Transitioning to a Green Economy: Financial Stability Implications, April 7th

Apr 01, 2021

Toronto Centre is hosting a Virtual Executive Panel featuring Mark Carney, United Nations Special Envoy for Climate Action and Finance, and Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Minister of Finance Indonesia on April 7th.

Call for Consultant for e-MFP's 5 year Strategic Plan

Mar 29, 2021

e-MFP is looking for a consultant to support the development of a five year strategic plan, for the period 2022-2026. Deadline to apply is 12th April, proposals from e-MFP members are encouraged.

Catch up on the EMA2021 Application Guidance sessions in EN/ FR/SP

Mar 26, 2021

Missed the Application Guidance sessions (EN/FR/SP) for the €100,000 European Microfinance Award 2021 ‘Inclusive Finance and Health Care’? You can watch the recordings now.

Call for Consultant - "Better Metrics for Effective Savings" Action Group

Mar 19, 2021

The e-MFP "Better Metrics for Effective Savings" Action Group is currently looking for a financial inclusion consultant to support a study on savings metrics and reporting standards. Deadline to apply is 11th April 2021.

BlueOrchard celebrates 20th anniversary

Mar 16, 2021

BlueOrchard Finance Ltd (BlueOrchard) has reached an exciting milestone. The impact investing pioneer celebrates 20 years of generating lasting positive impact for communities and the environment, while providing attractive returns to investors. Through BlueOrchard’s investments, millions of people with low income in emerging and frontier markets received access to financial and related services. Some of these are portrayed in BlueOrchard’s anniversary book “This Is My Story”.

Apply/Postulez/Postular - European Microfinance Award 2021

Mar 15, 2021

Is your organisation active in the financial inclusion sector and does it facilitate access to quality and affordable health care for low-income communities? Applications are now open (in EN, FR or SP) for the €100,000 European Microfinance Award.

Call for Consultant - “From Research to Practice and Back Again” Action Group

Mar 10, 2021

The e-MFP Action Group ‘From Research to Practice and Back Again’ is currently looking for a financial inclusion consultant to support specific activities. Deadline to apply is 9th April 2021.

Check out the e-MFP Newsletter

Mar 04, 2021

Our latest Newsletter is now out - check out our recent news & activities: release of the EMW 2020 conference report; recent webinars on savings and green inclusive finance; French & Spanish editions of our publication "Encouraging Effective & Inclusive Savings"; guest blog from Jeff Ashe on "Looking Backwards to Move Forward: What Traditional Ways of Saving in Groups Can Teach Us About Financial Inclusion" and our collaboration with CFI at Accion on buidling knowledge to guide a long-term Covid response in the Weathering the Storm II project.

INVITACIÓN: webinar 'Finanzas verdes inclusivas para pequeños productores en Perú: experiencias y oportunidades'

Mar 02, 2021

Los directores del Grupo de Acción de Finanzas Verdes Inclusivas y Climáticamente Inteligentes de la e-MFP (GICSF AG) se complacen en invitarle a este webinar sobre experiencias de finanzas verdes inclusivas en Perú. El webinar tendrá lugar en español. Invitamos a todas las partes interesadas en las microfinanzas de la región o bien que operan en América Latina a participar.

AFC is hiring - Junior Project Manager/Consultant

Mar 01, 2021

As part of the continuing expansion of the financial sector development segment, AFC is looking for a Junior Project Manager/Consultant.

Financing Young Entrepreneurs Differently, 10 March

Feb 26, 2021

On March 10th, e-MFP member ADA hosts an online Midi Microfinance (in Spanish with English translation) focusing on innovative solutions for young entrepreneurs in Central America

Discover the EMW2020 conference report

Feb 23, 2021

Delve into the extensive summaries plus full recordings of the EMW2020 sessions covering key topics such as the impact of & response to covid-19, effective & inclusive savings, digital finance, climate change, client protection and more....

MSC is hiring - Senior Manager, Francophone Africa

Feb 17, 2021

Are you a bilingual go-getter/Vous êtes un fonceur bilingue ? Keen to play a catalytic role in the development of financial services and agriculture in Francophone Africa? MSC is looking for a team leader who can nurture, grow and realize the full potential of its Francophone Africa team.

Block your calendar for #EMW2021!

Feb 15, 2021

Join us 17 - 19 November, further information will be available in the coming months.

Webinar: 'ESG: One Size Fits Nobody' - 4 February, 2021

Feb 02, 2021

Webinar series organised by the e-MFP's Green Inclusive & Climate Smart Finance Action Group Since 2009 a number of tools are available for FSPs to support social and/or environmental governance (ESG) implementation. Two of these tools were developed by Enclude (now Palladium): for HIVOS: the Green Performance Agenda (GPA, 2015), for IFAD: a Climate, Environmental and Social Toolbox (2019). Palladium’s Geert Schuite will present both tools in short. Participants are invited to discuss the relevance of such applications in their daily practice.

Lancement de la version française de la publication "Encourager une épargne efficace et inclusive"

Feb 01, 2021

Nous sommes heureux de vous partager la publication du Prix 2020 sur le thème "Encourager une épargne efficace et inclusive", pour la première fois en français et en espagnol ! Cette publication rassemble les innovations et les facteurs de réussite des dix meilleurs candidats, tout en soulignant l'importance durable (et particulièrement pertinente aujourd'hui) de l'accès à l'épargne pour renforcer la résilience des ménages à faible revenu.

Lanzamiento de la version española de la publicación "Fomento del ahorro eficaz e inclusivo"

Feb 01, 2021

Es para la e-MFP un placer presentarles la publicación del Premio Europeo de las Microfinanzas 2020 "Fomento del ahorro eficaz e inclusivo", que se publica por primera vez en español. Esta publicación reúne las innovaciones y los factores de éxito de los diez semifinalistas (y, entre ellos, los tres finalistas), al tiempo que destaca la importancia permanente (y especialmente relevante hoy en día) del acceso al ahorro para fortalecer la resiliencia de los hogares de bajos ingresos.

Building knowledge to guide a long-term COVID response: Weathering the Storm II

Jan 26, 2021

Over the past six months, e-MFP has been collaborating with the Center for Financial Inclusion on Weathering the Storm II, a project that explores FSPs whose experience with crisis during the past decade is particularly relevant to the challenges of today. Thus far the project has produced four case studies, with one more to be published.

IFAD - Vacancy announcement: Lead Regional Technical Specialist- Rural Finance, Markets and Value Chains

Jan 14, 2021

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is an international financial institution and a specialized United Nations agency dedicated to eradicating rural poverty and hunger. It does so by investing in rural people. IFAD finances programmes and projects that increase agricultural productivity and raise rural incomes, and advocates at the local, national and international level for policies that contribute to rural transformation.

Webinar 12 Jan: 'Neither a Borrower Nor a Lender Be…'

Jan 05, 2021

The Financial Inclusion Forum UK (FIF UK) and the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) are pleased to invite you to join us for an open-to-all expert discussion on the state-of-the-art in savings behaviour and what different financial services providers are doing to innovate in the design and delivery of savings to low-income households and businesses.

Webinars on Inclusive green finance for MFIs: Evaluation and support for improvement - The Green Index

Jan 01, 2021

This webinar (which will be held in Spanish, English, and French on different dates) aims to guide participants on the tool, its axes of evaluation, the concepts of environmental performance reviewed to update the tool, and the introduction of a fifth dimension in an interactive modality. Participants will be invited to discuss the ways forward to assess environmental performance of MFIs. This webinar is relevant for financial service providers, investors, academia and consultants.

Season's Greetings from e-MFP!

Dec 21, 2020

Season's Greetings and warmest wishes for 2021.

Video: The impact of the Covid-19 crisis on the financial inclusion value chain

Dec 18, 2020

We're delighted to share a short creative video presenting the preliminary findings of research on the impact of the Covid-19 crisis on the financial inclusion value chain conducted by the e-MFP Action Group 'From Research to Practice'.

New sector initiative to strengthen Human Resources development in microfinance

Dec 16, 2020

The e-MFP Human Resources Action Group has developed a survey for financial service providers (FSPs) to understand their current state of HR practice and gain insight into alternative approaches that contribute to social and financial performance. This survey is for all institutions aiming at cultivating talent and protecting and benefiting their employees.

e-MFP Activity Report 2020 out now

Dec 09, 2020

2020 has been a very challenging year in which the Covid-19 pandemic has posed a critical threat to the financial inclusion sector. e-MFP responded quickly to this change in circumstances, and re-configured a lot of the planned activities for 2020 to assist in the sector-wide response to the pandemic while continuing our typical activities alongside. Therefore our challenging year has also been a very busy, productive and rewarding year for the European Microfinance Platform. We're delighted to share with you in this annual report our many activities and achievements.

INVITATION: webinar on 'Microfinance & Climate Change' - 17 December, 2020

Dec 09, 2020

The Heads of the e-MFP Green Inclusive & Climate Smart Finance Action Group are pleased to invite you to this webinar on Microfinance and Climate Change. We are confident the results of this study will be useful for the industry.

Call for Consultant - European Microfinance Award 2021

Dec 03, 2020

The European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) is looking for a consultant to support the European Microfinance Award 2021. The deadline to apply is 14th December 2020.

Webinar: 'Financing Off-Grid Solar Energy Access: Hypotheses on COVID-19 Long Term Impacts'

Dec 02, 2020

The Heads of the e-MFP Green Inclusive & Climate Smart Finance Action Group are pleased to invite you to this webinar on the long-term changes that COVID-19 will bring to the off-grid solar energy sector. We are confident the results of this research will be useful for the industry.

CGAP has launched the final wave of the Global Pulse Survey of Microfinance Institution

Nov 27, 2020

Calling all MFIs - CGAP has launched the final wave of the Global Pulse Survey of Microfinance Institutions. Participate before December 15 and help produce a detailed analysis of how this crisis evolved from the spring through the end of the year that will be useful to industry stakeholders in this and future crises.

EMW 2020 - What the press are saying

Nov 24, 2020

Many thanks to our media partners and the Luxembourg press for the excellent coverage of EMW 2020.

Virtual European Microfinance Week 2020 Wraps Up - Taking Stock of the Impact of 2020 and Discussing How to ‘Build Back Better’

Nov 23, 2020

European Microfinance Week (#EMW2020), for the first time entirely online, concluded Friday with a fireside-style conversation on the implications of the events of 2020 for the future of financial inclusion. Dina Pons from Incofin Investment Management and Claudio González-Vega of Ohio State University and the BBVA Microfinance Foundation argued that 2020 has revealed several key trends, risks and opportunities – from the outsized impact that smaller MFIs will face from liquidity challenges to staff retrenchment, to the clear acceleration of digitalisation and more active intervention – including populist measures – by governments in financial inclusion. This was followed by closing words to end EMW2020 by e-MFP’s chairwoman Laura Hemrika, who summarised some of the major takeaways from the many debates, presentations and discussions over the conference: among them the enduring uncertainty over the impact of the Covid crisis on clients; the emerging need to overcome the challenges of providing TA and conducting research in this new context; the continued and clear desire for new linkages between stakeholders that for too long have remained siloed; the particular importance of savings to increase client resilience; and the welcomingly nuanced debate over how digitisation can be made to work for the benefit of everyone.

Muktinath Bikas Bank Ltd., Winner of the European Microfinance Award 2020

Nov 20, 2020

Muktinath Bikas Bank Ltd. has received this year’s European Microfinance Award for encouraging savings in Nepal. This prestigious annual award rewards inclusive finance initiatives.

“Past Imperfect; Future Tense”: Online European Microfinance Week 2020 Begins, for a Financial Inclusion Sector with Much to Discuss…

Nov 18, 2020

The online European Microfinance Week (#EMW2020) conference, hosted by the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) opened today, prefacing three days of virtual debate and discussion on the critical challenges and opportunities facing the financial inclusion sector. #EMW2020 may be fully online – with new streams, session formats and networking models on a new dedicated platform – but it retains many of its core characteristics as a member-driven conference, supported by the Luxembourg government. Among one of the most important annual events in the financial inclusion sector, EMW brings together all branches of the industry, including e-MFP’s own members, to discuss trends, innovations, challenges and opportunities in inclusive finance in developing countries.

e-MFP publishes its first book: Taking Shelter: Housing Finance for the World's Poor

Nov 14, 2020

In partnership with Practical Action Publishinge-MFP is publishing its first book: "Taking Shelter: Housing Finance for the World's Poor." Co-edited by Patrick McAllister and e-MFP's Daniel Rozas and generously funded by Calmeadow, Credit Suisse, Habitat for Humanity, Triple Jump and the Agence Française de Développement, the new volume explores the full spectrum of housing finance practice, from the perspective of the household, the FSP, investors, and regulators and policymakers.

e-MFP publishes Encouraging Effective & Inclusive Savings: Lessons and Best Practices from the European Microfinance Award 2020

Nov 12, 2020

The European Microfinance Platform is delighted to announce the publication of Encouraging Effective & Inclusive Savings, the latest in an annual series of papers that condense the themes and pull together the outstanding cases and factors for success from that year’s European Microfinance Award. Despite the incredible challenges faced by financial service providers throughout 2020, this year’s Award on Encouraging Effective & Inclusive Savings received a record number of applicants from all regions of the world, innovating in different ways in the design, delivery and encouragement of savings among vulnerable, low-income populations.

BlueOrchard announces the launch of a Covid-19 support fund that aims to support more than 200 million jobs in emerging and frontier markets

Nov 11, 2020

BlueOrchard Finance Ltd (BlueOrchard), a leading impact investment manager and member of the Schroders Group, is pleased to announce the launch of the “BlueOrchard Covid-19 Emerging and Frontier Markets MSME Support Fund”. The Fund is backed by prominent public and private investors who will jointly support its launch with around USD 140 million.

See our #EMW2020 teaser video

Nov 09, 2020

Don't miss virtual European Microfinance Week 2020, 18-20 November, Over 40 sessions at EMW2020 on #microfinance #financialinclusion #impinv #savings #housing #clientprotection #digitalfinance and more...

Join us at #EMW2020, 18-20th November, for over 40 sessions on the critical issues & innovations in the financial inclusion sector

Nov 02, 2020

European Microfinance Week (EMW) 2020 is virtual! We’re excited for you to join us from wherever you are in the world and connect for three days of knowledge exchange, peer to peer learning and the chance to engage with thought leaders from the financial inclusion sector

Assessing environmental performance of MFIs - Take the Survey!

Oct 26, 2020

e-MFP's Green Inclusive and Climate Smart Finance Action Group developed the Green Index in 2014. The AG is planning to launch a 3rd version by 2021 and, to this end, has designed a survey for investors to help understand the needs towards environmental performance and relevance of indicators for upgrading the Green Index.

MEbA Biodiversity Platform: Call for Participation

Oct 20, 2020

Biodiversity is a key factor for Agriculture Finance. But it is threatened globally and lacks representation in credit decisions in general, which results in its further decline. To counteract this issue, the Microfinance for Ecosystem-based Adaptation (MEbA) project is launching a dedicated online platform to foster the inclusion of biodiversity considerations in agricultural lending decisions.

Registration for virtual European Microfinance Week 2020, 18-20 Nov, is now open!

Oct 19, 2020

e-MFP Members' Spotlight on Encouraging Inclusive and Effective Savings

Oct 14, 2020

Learn how e-MFP members are encouraging effective & inclusive savings, focus of the European Microfinance Award 2020, in our Members’ Spotlight out now.

Financial Inclusion Week Session with Daniel Rozas: 'Past, Present, Future: What Previous Crises Can Teach Us About the Road Ahead (Oct 16, 3:30 pm CET)

Oct 13, 2020

This session will feature lessons from a series of case studies jointly published by CFI and e-MFP. These cases studies examine the experience of MFIs following previous crises, and steps taken by investors, board members, and leadership to set them on the path to recovery and future success. The session will provide lessons and recommendations for stakeholders navigating their way through the current pandemic, to similarly steer organizations toward future success as they emerge from the crisis.

Finalists for European Microfinance Award 2020 on 'Encouraging Effective & Inclusive Savings' announced

Oct 06, 2020

Buusaa Gonofaa Microfinance, Muktinath Bikas Bank and RENACA-Bénin announced as finalists for the €100,000 EMA 2020, representing a diverse landscape of approaches to encouraging savings usage.

Launch of the AFI European Representative Office co-hosted with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg

Sep 22, 2020

The Alliance of Financial Inclusion (AFI) is organizing a virtual launch of its European Representative Office (ERO), co-hosted in the City of Luxembourg by the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. The ERO office launch will be conducted virtually and will include a news conference and a discussion with the honorable Minister of Finance of Luxembourg, Mr. Pierre Gramegna, the honorable Minister for Development Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs of Luxembourg Mr. Franz Fayot, and AFI Executive Director Dr. Alfred Hannig.

Grabación disponible: Webinar en español para presentar las conclusiones del Covid-19 Financial Inclusion Compass

Sep 22, 2020

Tras varios meses inmersos en una crisis mundial con enormes implicaciones para el sector de la inclusión financiera, e-MFP lanzó una edición especial de su encuesta anual “Financial Inclusion Compass” en inglés, francés y español con el objetivo de proporcionar una mirada transversal sobre los desafíos que el COVID-19 plantea a las distintas partes interesadas, lo que dichas partes consideran que deben ser las prioridades a medio plazo para salir de la crisis y cómo será el sector en la era post-COVID.

Spanish language webinar, 21 Sept: para presentar las conclusiones de la encuesta Covid-19 Financial Inclusion Compass

Sep 11, 2020

La Plataforma Europea de Microfinanzas (e-MFP) se complace en invitarle a un webinar en español para presentar las conclusiones de la tercera encuesta de la e-MFP Compass, una edición especial que examina específicamente los desafíos que el Covid-19 plantea al sector de la inclusión financiera.

Spanish and French language versions of ‘Covid-19 Financial Inclusion Compass’ published

Sep 10, 2020

Several months into a global crisis with enormous implications for the financial inclusion sector, e-MFP launched a special Covid-19 edition of the Financial Inclusion Compass survey in English, French and Spanish - a genuinely cross-sector look at what challenges different stakeholder groups are facing, what they see as the medium-term priorities to transition out of the crisis, and what a post-Covid sector will look like. The Covid-19 Financial Inclusion Compass was published in English in July, and e-MFP is now delighted to announce the first-ever publication of the paper in Spanish and French.

Digital Cash Transfers in Times of COVID-19: Opportunities and Considerations for Women's Inclusion and Empowerment

Aug 25, 2020

e-MFP members CGAP and Women's World Banking together with The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the World Bank Group, have developed a joint white paper on gender intentional digital cash transfers in the time of COVID-19, offering guidance and considerations for policymakers to support women's inclusion and empowerment.

e-MFP Members' Responses to the COVID-19 pandemic crisis

Aug 07, 2020

Catch up on the latest news on how e-MFP members are addressing the COVID-19 pandemic in the blogs, guides, studies and webinar recordings listed on our dedicated page which is regularly updated.

The Belgian FSMA granted Inpulse full license as Alternative Investment Fund Manager (AIFM)

Jul 24, 2020

We are very pleased to announce that Inpulse Investment Manager has been added to the list of authorized AIFMs by the Belgian #FSMA (Financial Services and Market Authority).

Check out our Summer Newsletter

Jul 23, 2020

Our Summer Newsletter is now out - check out our recent news & activities: updates on EMW 2020 & the European Microfinance Award; our latest publications the 'Covid-19 Financial Inclusion Compass' & 'Adapting to a New Normal'; our blog series 'Perspectives from the Frontline' and valuable Covid-19 resources.

From a record field of 70 applicants, 19 proceed to European Microfinance Award 2020 Selection Committee

Jul 22, 2020

Amidst the various challenges all sector stakeholders have been facing these past months due to the Covid-19 pandemic, one thing is abundantly clear: savings matter more than ever. This is as true in developed as in emerging economies, and the benefits of savings – cash-flow smoothing, convenience, shock mitigation among many – are crucial to how vulnerable populations can weather crises.

Special Edition Covid-19 Financial Inclusion Compass published, revealing a sector with fear and (tentative) hope for the future

Jul 15, 2020

The Covid-19 Financial Inclusion Compass is a special edition of the Compass series specifically focused on the current challenges, medium-term priorities, concerns, opportunities and forecasts for a sector facing probably the greatest crisis in its modern history. It reveals a sector that is highly anxious about the consequences of the pandemic and especially the economic downturn – on liquidity-starved providers, on investors, but most of all on clients.

Ask BFC Digitization Webinar Series starts 30 July

Jul 15, 2020

Are you ready for Digitization? During the current Covid-19 crisis BFC Consulting are pleased to provide free Q&A sessions with our expert consultants online to respond to any relevant questions you may have every second Thursday of the month.

European Microfinance Week 2020 goes online 16 - 20 November!

Jul 14, 2020

It has been a difficult few months and during this time we at e-MFP have engaged with our members and friends to mobilize resources and adapt our activities to best mitigate the effects this pandemic brings to our sector and the vulnerable people we as a community serve. One of our flagship activities is European Microfinance Week held annually in November and with it in mind, we have been closely monitoring the public health situation globally. Now more than ever it's vital to connect and gather together the inclusive finance world to find solutions to the most pressing issues of the sector. However in the face of the current situation with the Covid-19 pandemic we've taken the decision to gather responsibly and this year EMW 2020 will go online 16th – 20th November.

The Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation publishes its 1st Impact Report

Jul 02, 2020

In order to better understand and share the results of its action, the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation publishes its first Impact Report based on the activity data for 2019. This in-depth work was carried out with methodological support from CERISE, an international firm that specializes in impact and social performance measurement. The purpose of this report is to provide an objective overview of the Foundation’s contribution to the fight against poverty by analysing the effects of its commitment to impact entrepreneurship.

Webinar invitation: The ‘Covid-19 Financial Inclusion Compass’

Jul 01, 2020

The European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) is pleased to invite you to a webinar to present the preliminary and pre-publication findings from the third e-MFP Compass survey - a special edition of the survey specifically looking at the challenges Covid-19 is posing to sector stakeholders, and what they prioritise going forward.

New publication: Adapting to a New Normal

Jun 30, 2020

Read our latest publication "Adapting to a New Normal" which presents the outcomes of the European Microfinance Award 2019 on 'Strengthening Resilience to Climate Change' and summarises the Award process, profiling the Award semi-finalists and their relevant initiatives, and extracts factors for success that distinguish these programmes. More than ever, the lessons from the 2019 Award on how to protect clients, staff and institutions from external crises are especially relevant as a Covid-threatened sector seeks to adapt today to not just one, but two 'new normals'.

UNCDF: webinaire sur l'impact du Covid et la résilience du secteur de l'inclusion financière en UEMOA

Jun 18, 2020

Dans le contexte de la crise du Covid-19, les microentreprises de l'économie informelle et les petites entreprises forment une pièce maîtresse dans la reprise économique et sociale. Soutenir les institutions de microfinance dans ce contexte revêt dès lors une importance capitale pour protéger leurs emprunteurs les plus vulnérables et continuer ainsi à jouer pleinement leur rôle dans les économies africaines.

Covid-19 Financial Inclusion Compass (update)

Jun 14, 2020

GIIN Launches the 2020 Annual Impact Investor Survey Report

Jun 12, 2020

The 2020 Annual Impact Investor Survey is the most comprehensive overview of impact investing market to date. In its 10th edition, the report captures data and insights from 294 of the world’s leading impact investors—the largest group of Annual Survey respondents ever—who collectively manage USD 404 billion of impact investing assets. These respondents, representing an important subset of the broader USD 715 billion global impact investing market, reported on their investment activity during 2019 and their plans for 2020.

Complete the Special Covid-19 Edition of Financial Inclusion Compass survey

Jun 09, 2020

The e-MFP third survey of financial inclusion trends is underway and this special edition focuses solely on the challenges and priorities facing the sector as a result of the Covid-19 public health and economic crisis. Share your view on how Covid will shape the future of the sector- complete the survey before 23:59 CEST on Tuesday 23rd June.

CGAP Launches Global Microfinance Survey to Inform COVID-19 Response

Jun 02, 2020

CGAP has launched a biweekly survey of microfinance institutions (MFIs) around the world. The survey is intended to gather data that MFI management teams, funders and policy makers all need to help these institutions and their low-income clients weather the COVID-19 crisis.

Financial Inclusion Conversations: e-MFP's Sam Mendelson & Kashf Foundation's Roshaneh Zafar

May 27, 2020

In the first of the new 'Financial Inclusion Conversations' video series with institutions that have successfully weathered past crises, e-MFP's Sam Mendelson sat down with Roshaneh Zafar of Kashf Foundation in Pakistan to talk about the past, present and future.

Webinar: Voices from the Ground - focus on Peru, 28 May

May 19, 2020

LMDF presents a series of interviews on the impact of COVID-19 in the countries where they operate. The pandemic has certainly changed the way we live but what is happening in countries where poverty rates are higher and where the informal economy dominates? The series of interviews examines how micro-entrepreneurs are coping in this changing world - this edition focuses on Peru.

Join the social investor community by committing to coordinated action during the COVID-19 crisis

May 19, 2020

Investors in the inclusive finance industry as well as the larger impact investing markets are facing a burning question: how do we balance our social promises while maintaining the financial sustainability of our portfolio? This is not an easy question to answer in good times - and is even more difficult during a global crisis.

Watch "Are We Managing?" An e-MFP/FIF UK Cross-Sector Panel Discussion on Covid Responses

May 15, 2020

Catch up on the joint e-MFP/ FIF UK cross-sector discussion panel held on 13 May where six outstanding speakers discuss how the financial inclusion sector is responding to the Covid-19 pandemic. Are we managing? Just how much trouble are we in?

ADA’s Annual Report 2019 - Innovation for Inclusion

May 11, 2020

With this Annual Report, ADA celebrates its 25 years of commitment to the development of inclusive finance and illustrates this engagement through the presentation of some of the most important projects our organization is currently working on.

SEEP Webinar: Savings Groups in the Age of COVID, 20 May

May 11, 2020

As mobility is restricted and markets falter, the COVID-19 pandemic poses crucial health and economic risks for Savings Groups. On May 20th join SEEP together with CARE, Catholic Relief Services and the International Rescue Committee for the webinar to explore their response and recovery efforts related to Savings Groups, including health messaging, the integration of new technologies, cash and voucher assistance, new and potential partnerships, and more.

Round 1 of EMA 2020 on Savings Receives Record 70 Applications from 37 Countries

May 06, 2020

Round 1 of the European Microfinance Award 2020 on ‘Encouraging Effective and Inclusive Savings” has closed with a record number and range of applicants — an astonishing and welcome result considering the pressures financial services providers around the world are facing right now. More than ever, vulnerable populations’ access to quality savings products is going to be critical in mitigating the consequences of Covid-19 on households and businesses, and we are delighted to not only see so many applications, but to see specifically how these organisations are ensuring their innovative savings initiatives are helping clients.

SPTF Webinar 7th May - Overview of the COVID-19 Client Interview Tool

May 04, 2020

Join this webinar to learn more about the COVID-19 Client Interview Tool -- a free client survey tool that can help financial service providers better understand how COVID-19 is affecting clients.

Comic books to educate clients and MFI staff on COVID-19

May 04, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought upon us the responsibility to create awareness, influence precautionary behavior, and drive safety of the weak and the vulnerable. MSC has developed a series conversational comics that can help microfinance institutions (MFIs) inform their frontline staff members and also their customers and the wider community on such issues as workplace safety, safe cash handling, customer etiquette, and personal safety measures.

e-MFP Endorses Investor MOU on Coordinated COVID-19 Response

Apr 30, 2020

On Friday 24th April, a group of nine inclusive finance fund managers (BlueOrchard, DWM, Incofin, Microvest, Oikocredit, responsAbility, Symbiotics, Triodos and Triple Jump - most of which are long-standing e-MFP members) issued a Memorandum of Understanding, entitled “Coordination among MIVs in response to Covid 19”. This is a complex and much-needed collective initiative, and will act as the foundation of the sector’s response to the challenges of Covid facing financial institutions and their clients around the world.

Apply for the European Microfinance Award 2020 before 5th May

Apr 21, 2020

The COVID pandemic is causing incredible pressures on households the world over. But the frontline in protecting one’s family from financial shocks is always savings - a safety net against the twin perils of collapsing income and increased expenses.

International microfinance institutions anticipate the first effects of a recession

Apr 16, 2020

The Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation, in permanent contact with its network of nearly 80 partner microfinance institutions (MFIs) present in 40 countries, continues its work of collecting information, analysing and sharing its observations. Over the past few days, we have focused our follow-up on the consequences of the crisis and the work of the MFIs to deal with it.

Launch of covid-finclusion.org – a new discussion forum and blog for the financial inclusion sector

Apr 16, 2020

e-MFP, with the Center for Financial Inclusion and the Social Performance Task Force, has today launched a new platform, www.covid-finclusion.org, for original essay content and a discussion forum where sector stakeholders can ask questions, initiate discussions and provide details of their own experiences, forecasts and concerns.

NpM members issue Investor Statement on Covid-19

Apr 10, 2020

Dutch emerging market impact investors, under the banner of NpM, are joining forces to speak out and provide support to bolster the resilience of those most affected by the Covid-19 outbreak in emerging markets across the globe.

EMA2020- Deadline extended! / Date limite reportée ! / ¡Ampliado el plazo!

Apr 08, 2020

Financial services providers in the financial inclusion sector across the world are facing immense challenges ahead due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Clients will need different types of support to maintain their livelihoods, protect their families and businesses. Among these, access to savings services will be some of the most critical. Now, more than ever, clients need the resilience that inclusive savings offer.

The microfinance sector is organising itself in the face of the effects of the health crisis

Apr 07, 2020

Following its enquiry launched two weeks ago, the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation has established an observatory to constantly update the information collected through daily exchanges with its partner microfinance Institutions (MFIs). The goal is to better understand how to support them, but also to share its analysis with other financial players in the inclusive finance and development aid sector.

VIDEO AFRICA by Verdant Capital - May 5 to May 7

Apr 06, 2020

Over the last five years, Verdant Capital has arranged for clients each year in early May one-one-one investors meetings in London. In 2020, May 5 to May 7, Verdant Capital is hosting a virtual conference – Video Africa – with one-on-one investor meetings for selected microfinance banks, credit-only institutions and fintechs with the leading relevant investors globally.

Special meeting of the SPTF Social Investor Working Group - April 1, 10:30 EDT

Mar 31, 2020

With financial service providers and their customers suffering from the COVID crisis, how will investors be affected? How should social investors respond? While this crisis is unique in many ways, our community has experienced the value of social responsibility in tempering the effects of previous crises. Our focus is on collective action and coordination.

Fondation Grameen Crédit Agricole: How Coronavirus affects Microfinance sector

Mar 25, 2020

Grameen Credit Agricole Foundation's team launched a survey among its partners on March 11th in order to gather their first impressions and analysis, the impact on their clients' activity, on their institution and their potential needs. We also took advantage of our regular interactions with our partners to obtain as much information as possible. All further information in this document come from these resources. 56 Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs) responded to our survey, out of 75 reached partners (75% participation rate) with the last answers received on March 19.

Frankfurt School of Finance & Management: Online Master, Summer Academies and e-Learning Courses

Mar 18, 2020

Find out about Frankfurt School of Finance & Management's upcoming programmes!

CGAP - Call for Consultancy on Financial Sector Solutions for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation

Mar 12, 2020

CGAP recently published a TOR for a Short-Term-Consultancy on Financial Sector Solutions for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation.

Report: Making agricultural and climate risk insurance gender inclusive: How to improve access to insurance for rural women

Mar 11, 2020

IFAD’s technical assistance programme INSURED (Insurance for rural resilience and economic development) has been building knowledge about how to strengthen women producers’ access to climate risk insurance.

Apply for the European Microfinance Award 2020

Mar 09, 2020

Is your organisation active in the financial inclusion sector and does it play an integral role in encouraging and/or providing effective and inclusive savings within low income, vulnerable and excluded groups? Applications are now open for the €100,000 European Microfinance Award. Deadline is extended to May 5th.

Christoph Pausch on the €100k European Microfinance Award 2020: Encouraging Effective & Inclusive Savings – Application Period Opens March 9

Mar 06, 2020

The countdown is on for the launch of the €100,000 European Microfinance Award on March 9th - check out why 'Encouraging Effective & Inclusive Savings' is the focus for 2020 in this MicroCapital interview.

European Microfinance Week 2019 Conference Report Out Now!

Mar 04, 2020

European Microfinance Week 2019, #emw2019, gathered 450 leading experts from 62 countries to showcase the most exciting innovations advancing sustainable and responsible financial inclusion around the world. We are proud to present this extensive report which features all the sessions and brings together the important discussions, findings and presentations of the conference.

Why the European Microfinance Award - watch our video

Mar 02, 2020

See in our video why applying for the European Microfinance Award is a such good idea. This prestigious annual award with €100,000 for the winner and €10,000 for the two runners-up attracts applications from organisations active in financial service around the world that are innovating in a particular area of financial inclusion. Applications for the 2020 Award open on 9th March

In FinDev Gateway: Protecting Livestock and Livelihoods from Climate Change

Feb 11, 2020

FinDev interviews Sarfraz Shah of APA Insurance, European Microfinance Award 2019 winner, on their work with Kenyan smallholders to help them build resilience to the effects of climate change such as droughts and flooding.

SAVE THE DATE - EMW 2020!

Feb 03, 2020

Join top experts from the financial inclusion sector to address today's most pressing challenges. Engage with close to 500 leaders & influencers from all over the globe.

When investment, inclusion and innovation meet together! 27 Feb

Feb 01, 2020

Join e-MFP member ADA for their next Midi de la Microfinance 'When investment, inclusion and innovation meet together!' on 27 February from 12:00 to 14:00 in Luxembourg (in French)

Optimism, Confusion and Soul-Searching: The Financial Inclusion Compass 2019 Reveals a Sector at an Inflection Point

Jan 24, 2020

As a confusing and often frightening decade gives way to a new – hopefully more positive – one, it’s hard to avoid the sense that the world around us is getting ever more fiendishly complex. Increasingly, that complexity extends to the social impact sector: Just a look at NextBillion’s top 10 articles of 2019 is enough to make your head spin. From bullish forecasts on financial inclusion’s impact on the SDGs to alternative measurement frameworks that call these predictions into question, with similarly divergent takes on topics from behavioural economics to impact investing and off-grid energy, the sector has expanded beyond the grasp of any single generalist. It’s easy to feel hypnotized by the complexity of it all.

Check out our Winter Newsletter out now!

Jan 21, 2020

Our Winter 2019/2020 is now out with: some of highlights of EMW 2019 and the European Microfinance Award ceremony; Spotlight on APA Insurance Ltd., winner of the 2019 Award; a look at our new publications; anniversary celebrations of two of e-MFP's members, ADA and BNP Paribas; an interesting article from BlueOrchard on 'Rethinking Climate Finance'; we welcome our new member Yapu Solutions; plus all the latest news and activities from e-MFP and its members complete the edition.

Webinar: Expanding the cashbox: Linking Saving Groups to Financial Services

Jan 17, 2020

Join VisionFund's special webinar on 30th January to hear lessons learned from Linking Saving Groups to Financial Services - in Tanzania, Rwanda, Ghana and Zambia.

Microinsurance Network is hiring - Knowledge Manager

Jan 16, 2020

The Microinsurance Network (MiN) is seeking a dynamic self-starter to join their Executive Team as Knowledge Manager. The deadline for applying is 3 February 2020.

Strengthening Resilience to Climate Change - innovative solutions from the winner & finalists of the 2019 Award

Jan 13, 2020

In our new brochure learn how the winner and finalists of the European Microfinance Award 2019 on 'Strengthening Resilience to Climate Change' demonstrate a range of approaches to increase vulnerable populations’ resilience to climate change.

Where do we go from here? Trends, Focus Areas and Forecasts from the 'Financial Inclusion Compass 2019', Jan 21st Brussels

Jan 09, 2020

Join us on 21st January in Brussels to hear e-MFP's Sam Mendelson, author of the 'Financial Inclusion Compass 2019', present the trends, future areas of focus, challenges and opportunities for inclusive finance from the second e-MFP survey of financial inclusion trends in an event jointly held with the World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI) - the European Savings and Retail Banking Group (ESBG) and e-MFP.

Can microfinance provide economic and social empowerment to refugees ?

Jan 07, 2020

On 5th February at 12.00 in Brussels, e-MFP member BRS organises its Microfinance Lunch Break event, focusing on the economic and social empowerment of refugees.

CIDR and Pamiga merge to tackle tomorrow’s challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa

Jan 07, 2020

The boards and general assemblies of CIDR (Centre International de Développement et de Recherche) and Pamiga (Participatory Microfinance Group for Africa) agreed to merge and create a new entity: CIDR Pamiga. Shared values, complementarity of expertise, and a common vision of development in rural Africa motivated this merger. Together, CIDR Pamiga will provide a joint delivery of technical assistance and funding to build inclusive economic ecosystems based on digital platforms and customized business services. The new organization will also provide technical assistance for investors in impact monitoring and management.

Impact Study on “Outcomes of Microcredit Provision to Syrian Refugees in Lebanon”

Dec 18, 2019

The final report of the study on the impact of microcredit on Syrian refugees clients of Al Majmoua (MFI in Lebanon) is released. The main goal of the study was to detect the impact of microcredit provision on refugees’ households and see which are the changes in their living conditions.

Call for Consultant - European Microfinance Award 2020

Dec 16, 2019

The European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) is looking for a consultant to support the European Microfinance Award 2020. The deadline for proposals is 10th January 2020

Explore the EMW 2019 photo galleries

Dec 04, 2019

Thanks to the almost 450 participants from 62 countries who gathered at EMW 2019! See what made it special in our photo galleries:

New Scale2Save research on African youth

Dec 03, 2019

Banks that want to accelerate financial inclusion should focus on young people in Africa, understand their lives and needs better, and offer them appropriate and tailored products. These are among the key conclusions of a 45-page report by Scale2Save that looks at how younger sections of the population in three African countries manage their income, expenditure, and savings.

e-MFP's 2019 Activity Report out now!

Nov 28, 2019

It has been a very busy, productive and rewarding year for the European Microfinance Platform, with new initiatives and innovations on various fronts. We're delighted to share with you in this annual report of activities our many activities and achievements. Read all about our events, partnerships, sector engagement and knowledge exchange.

Catch up on EMW 2019 in our Plenary videos

Nov 26, 2019

Relive the European Microfinance Week ( #emw2019 ) plenary sessions on 'Strengthening resilience to climate change through financial inclusion'; 'Protecting the working poor in the 21st Century through responsible finance' and 'Responsible client choices in finance: Whose responsibility is it?' in the videos:

What the press is saying about EMW 2019

Nov 26, 2019

Many thanks to our media partners and the Luxembourg press for the excellent coverage of EMW 2019

Urgent call for action on climate change and debate on the philosophies of choice and responsibility wrap up EMW 2019

Nov 25, 2019

European Microfinance Week (#EMW2019), organised by the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP), concluded Friday in Luxembourg with an urgent call to action on climate change, and a debate on the limits of client choice, entitled ‘Responsible client choices in finance: whose responsibility is it?

APA Insurance Ltd receives the 10th European Microfinance Award in recognition of its response to “Strengthening Resilience to Climate Change”

Nov 22, 2019

At a ceremony held at the European Investment Bank in Luxembourg, Paulette Lenert, Luxembourg Minister for Cooperation and Humanitarian Affairs, presented the 10th European Microfinance Award to APA Insurance Ltd of Kenya.

In FinDev Gateway: More Data for a More Accountable Financial Inclusion Industry

Nov 17, 2019

Facts and figures tell us the full story of financial and social results and allow us to compare that story to those of our peers. The ATLAS data platform is a new initiative to help tell those stories, consolidating data on pricing, client protection, and social and financial performance. Read the FinDev Gateway blog.

Via MicroCapital: Climate-change Resilience Takes Centre Stage at European Microfinance Week 2019

Nov 07, 2019

As a proud co-organiser of the EUR 100,000 European Microfinance Award (EMA), e-MFP leverages European Microfinance Week to spot-light the theme of the Award each year. With EMA 2019 focused on Strengthening Resilience to Climate Change, the many ways that financial inclusion stakeholders are helping vulnerable populations adapt to climate change are at the forefront of the European Microfinance Week programme. If your work involves addressing climate change through financial inclusion, #EMW2019 is not to be missed!

Report - 6th European Research Conference on Microfinance

Oct 30, 2019

Montpellier Business School, the French National Research Institute for Development (IRD) and the University Paris Dauphine, in cooperation with e-MFP and CERMI, organised the 6th European Research Conference on Microfinance from 3rd to 5th June 2019 in Paris

BlueOrchard publishes Climate Finance study

Oct 21, 2019

BlueOrchard has released a new study on climate finance. The study, compiled in cooperation with the FINEXUS Center for Financial Networks and Sustainability of the University of Zurich, discusses climate-related risks and their impact, especially on less-developed countries as well as potential economic losses in the financial system.

Check out our Autumn 2019 Newsletter out now!

Oct 14, 2019

Our Autumn 2019 Newsletter is now out with: The three finalists of the €100,000 European Microfinance Award; our special supplement 'e-MFP Members' Spotlight on Climate Change'; a preview of what's in store at European Microfinance Week 2019; a look at the new publication 'A Research Agenda for Financial Inclusion and Microfinance' and an article Pragmatic Partnerships for Digital: Advice from the Field; we welcome our new member University of Paris-Dauphine plus all the latest news and activities from e-MFP and its members complete the edition.

African Facility II: The Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation and AFD together for microfinance in Africa

Oct 08, 2019

Launched in 2013 by the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation and the Agence Française de Développement (AFD), the “Take-off Facility for agricultural and rural microfinance in Africa” (African Facility) aims to support microfinance institutions in sub-Saharan Africa. After a successful first phase (2013-2016), with 16 funded partners and € 6 million in disbursed loans, the second phase of the program will support 25 rural microfinance institutions.

In MicroCapital: Laura Hemrika of Credit Suisse on European Microfinance Week 2019

Oct 03, 2019

In anticipation of European Microfinance Week, happening 20-22 November, our media partner MicroCapital caught up with e-MFP Chairwoman Laura Hemrika of Credit Suisse to see why EMW is the must-attend event of the financial inclusion sector this Autumn.

Webinar series: Digital Transformation - How MFIs can embrace technology

Oct 01, 2019

As technology transforms the world, microfinance institutions grapple with fundamental questions on how to adapt, what strategies to pursue, and how to best equip themselves to successfully digitize. FinDev Gateway explores all these aspects of digital transformation in a series of three webinars.

Finalists for European Microfinance Award 2019 are announced

Sep 22, 2019

On the 19th of September, the Selection Committee for the European Microfinance Award 2019 “Strengthening Resilience to Climate Change” chose the three finalists who will go on to compete for the €100,000 prize: APA, ASKI, and FDL. Through the initiatives these outstanding organisations have put in place to increase vulnerable populations’ resilience to climate change, they demonstrate the innovation and dynamism of this most critical area of financial inclusion.

e-MFP partner of the 2019 Microfinance Barometer - now out!

Sep 19, 2019

e-MFP is a proud partner and contributor of the 2019 Microfinance Barometer which to mark its 10th anniversary, looks back on the evolution of financial inclusion around the world. Read e-MFP's article "(Micro)finance for Resilience: Helping Clients Adapt to Climate Change" on page 14!

Register now for European Microfinance Week, 20th - 22nd Nov

Sep 17, 2019

Registration for #EMW2019 is now open - don't miss your opportunity to engage with 500 top industry professionals, hear presentations on the latest developments in the financial inclusion sector, and attend the ceremony for the European Microfinance Award!

Luxembourg signing will help bolster financial inclusion across the African continent

Sep 13, 2019

On 6 September 2019 the Ministry of Finance of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg signed a letter of understanding (LOU) with the Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI) to launch a new multi-donor collaboration framework that will help bolster financial inclusion across the African continent.

Complete the 2019 e-MFP Financial Inclusion Trends Survey!

Sep 02, 2019

The second annual e-MFP survey of financial inclusion trends is now open (and in 3 languages this year!), and the results will be published in the 'Financial Inclusion Compass 2019' in November. We hope you’ll take the time to participate, and feel free to either forward to contacts who we should hear from, or promote it on your own platforms.

LuxFLAG Sustainable Investment Week, 22-24 Oct

Aug 31, 2019

The first edition of the LuxFLAG Sustainable Investment Week (#LSIW19) organised by LuxFLAG will be held from 22 to 24 October 2019. A wide range of topics such as Climate Finance, ESG, Impact Investing, Sustainable Development Goals will be covered during fifteen standalone events at various locations around Luxembourg.

Making Finance Work for Women Summit, 22-23 Oct

Aug 22, 2019

Women’s World Banking will hold the next edition of the 'Making Finance Work for Women' Summit in Singapore on October 22-23, 2019, at the Pan Pacific Hotel.

Convergences World Forum, 5th - 6th September

Aug 05, 2019

Join e-MFP at the 12th edition of the Convergences World Forum which will take place on September 5th & 6th at the Palais Brongniart in Paris. More than 5,000 attendees and speakers from the business, solidarity, government, academic and media will gather to share ideas and build solutions around the theme "Inequalities – Transitions - Solutions".

Report: Emerging Evidence on Financial Inclusion

Aug 01, 2019

Research on the impact of financial services on the lives of low-income people provides valuable insights. However, these studies tend to focus on microcredit or a single financial product, such as savings or mobile money. As a result, an overly simplistic and product-focused story has emerged. Recognizing the need for a more nuanced and clearer impact narrative, this CGAP Focus Note 'Emerging Evidence on Financial Inclusion' synthesizes evidence since 2014 and highlights three overarching insights

5th Annual Boulder Rural and Agricultural Finance Program, July 2019

Jul 16, 2019

The 5th Edition of the Rural and Agricultural Finance Program (RAFP) in English will be held from 22 July 22 to 2 August 2019 in Turin, Italy and will bring together rural and agricultural finance specialists from around the world representing MFIs, Rural Banks, Central Banks, Ministries of Finance and Agriculture, Donor Agencies, Investors, Development Agencies, and more.

Check out the e-MFP Summer 2019 Newsletter

Jul 05, 2019

Our Summer 2019 Newsletter is now out with: update on the European Microfinance Award 2019 on 'Strengthening Resilience to Climate Change'; Highlights from our Offsite Session event in London on 'Financial Inclusion through Technology'; A look at the 6th European Research Conference on Microfinance held, 3rd - 5th June, in Paris; Article on a New Code for Consumer Protection in the Off-Grid Sector; Update on the SPI4 Audit Guide and take-aways from LuxFLAG's recent seminar on social investments; a warm welcome to our new members Banca Etica and MSC; plus all the latest news and activities from e-MFP and its members complete the edition.

Webinar: Agency Banking to Reach Customers in Remote Areas, 5 July 2019

Jul 03, 2019

Join Amarante Consulting and UNCDF, two members of e-MFP for a webinar (English) on "Agency Banking to Reach Customers in Remote Areas" on 05 July 2019 at 13h GMT. The webinar will also happen in French at 14h GMT. This webinar will present the lessons learnt from the implementation of agency banking that was done to financially and economically include the excluded population in Benin by Ecobank. Amarante Consulting will also present the technical and operational prerequisites to implement agency banking in a seamless manner.

Join MFC Webinar: What Digital Products and Services Are Microfinance Clients Ready for?

Jun 27, 2019

Join e-MFP member for a webinar 'What Digital Products and Services Are Microfinance Clients Ready for?' on 9th July at 11:00 CEST which will present the tools that will help understand clients' digital readiness

Webinar: Opportunities & Challenges in Serving Refugee Communities in West Nile, Uganda

Jun 13, 2019

With large numbers of vulnerable refugees fleeing unrest in their countries and settling in refugee camps, providing economic opportunities is essential for communities to survive. On 18 June at 9.00 (UK time), join Martina Crailsheim, Refugee Microfinance Manager of VisionFund International, as she presents the assessment results and business opportunities in West Nile

e-MFP at European Development Days

Jun 12, 2019

e-MFP is delighted to share expertise and insights during two Lab Debates at EDD 2019. Gabriela Erice joins the panel 'Financial Inclusion: A Catalyst for Reducing Inequalities' on June 18th and Daniel Rozas is a panelist on 'A Business Case for Housing Microfinance' session on June 19th. Meet the e-MFP team at EDD 2019!

New publication: Digital Pathways in Financial Inclusion

May 24, 2019

We're delighted to announce our new publication Digital Pathways in Financial Inclusion, which draws on the technology initiatives of the winners and semi-finalists of the 2018 European Microfinance Award on ‘Financial Inclusion through Technology’, paving the way for how advances in technology can be adopted by financial services providers who serve the excluded.

Report: What are savings groups?

May 23, 2019

The Center for Research on Social Enterprises and Microfinance (CERSEM) at the University of Agder in Norway has launched a new report on the content in the SAVIX database. The database covers 250 thousand groups worldwide. The report shows what savings groups are, how they are structured, how they perform and where they flourish

New CGAP Reports - FinTechs and Financial Inclusion

May 15, 2019

Check out CGAP's new report on "FinTechs and Financial Inclusion: Looking Past the Hype and Exploring Their Potential", plus a separate set of case studies "FinTechs and Financial Inclusion: Lessons Learned"

Research Meets Africa - Call for Papers

May 14, 2019

The call for papers for Research Meets Africa is open! June 15th is the deadline to submit research articles on the theme: "The impact and contribution of inclusive finance to the Sustainable Development Goals".

16th Consultative Forum on Climate and Disaster Risk, 12 - 13 June, South Africa

May 10, 2019

16th Consultative Forum on "Climate and disaster risk: building resilience, bridging the protection gap", coorganised by the Microinsurance Network on 12th – 13th June in Johannesburg, South Africa will explore how insurance providers, policymakers, insurance regulators and supervisors can collaborate to reduce the protection gap and help to build resilience in the face of climate risk and natural disasters.

Financial Inclusion Through Technology, 23rd May, London

May 09, 2019

The next e-MFP Offsite Session "Financial Inclusion through Technology: A presentation of the takeaways from the European Microfinance Award 2018", takes place on Thursday 23rd May 2019 in London. The event, jointly held by the Financial Inclusion Forum and e-MFP, and once again generously supported by Allen & Overy, will present the background to the 2018 Award and the emerging best practice in this area including through profiles of the finalists and semifinalists' programs, and also present "Digital Pathways in Financial Inclusion" – the upcoming e-MFP paper summarising the 2018 Award.

Contribute to the European Microfinance Week 2019 programme!

May 07, 2019

Preparations are underway for European Microfinance Week, 20th - 22nd November 2019 and e-MFP is launching a request for proposals from its members for sessions which will take place during this year's prestigious event. Deadline to submit is 27th May 2019.

Check out the e-MFP Spring 2019 Newsletter!

May 01, 2019

Our Spring 2019 Newsletter is now out with: update on the European Microfinance Award 2019 on Strengthening Resilience to Climate Change; Details of the upcoming 6th European Research Conference on Microfinance in Paris on 3rd - 5th June; celebration of the 100th anniversary of our member ILO; an article looking at MFIs and their missions based on the study "Do Social Enterprises Walk the Talk? Assessing Microfinance Performances with Mission Statements"; plus all the latest news and activities from e-MFP and its members complete the edition.

41 organisations from 27 countries compete for the European Microfinance Award 2019

Apr 11, 2019

The preliminary application round for the European Microfinance Award 2019 on "Strengthening Resilience to Climate Change" has now closed, and we are delighted to announce that 41 organisations from 27 countries have applied.

Register for the European Research Conference on Microfinance, 3 - 5 June

Apr 10, 2019

Register now for the 6th European Research Conference on Microfinance with the theme "New Tools, New Actors: Which aims, values and beneficiaries?" taking place 3rd - 5th June, in Paris. The conference is co-organised by the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Montpellier Business School and Paris Dauphine University in cooperation with CERMi and the European Microfinance Platform.

Webinar: Quelles rentabilités en microfinance ? Microfinance & Profitability

Apr 08, 2019

Join e-MFP's Gabriela Erice García together with Philippe Guichandut of the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation and Frédéric Mille of Advans International in the upcoming webinar (in French) on 9th April 11-12.30 (Paris time)

BlueOrchard's Impact Report 2019/2020 out now

Apr 04, 2019

BlueOrchard recently published its Impact Report 2019/2020. This year's report gives a comprehen¬sive overview of BlueOrchard's impact measurement and management expertise, explaining how its impact management know-how and tools have evolved over time to become to¬day's inclusive and holistic practice across multiple asset classes and impact themes, firmly aligned with industry best practices.

9th April deadline for the European Microfinance Award 2019!

Apr 03, 2019

The €100,000 European Microfinance Award 2019 "Strengthening Resilience to Climate Change" is open to all organisations active in the financial inclusion sector that provide products and services to help vulnerable communities become more resilient to the effects of climate change. Deadline is 9th April.

Official Launch Event of joint PARM/IFAD, FAO and NEPAD series of e-learning courses to bridge the knowledge gap on agricultural risk management - 4th of April 2019

Mar 25, 2019

The Platform for Agricultural Risk Management (PARM), a G7-G20 Initiative, hosted by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) are launching a series of e-learning courses on Agricultural Risk Management on Thursday 4th of April 2019 in FAO headquarters,

To develop rural economies, the EIB is strengthening microfinance in Africa, April 1st Paris

Mar 12, 2019

The Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation (GCAF) together with the European Investment Bank (EIB) are organising a conference on April 1st in Paris

European Microfinance Week 2018 conference report out now

Mar 07, 2019

Missed EMW 2018? Catch up now with our conference report which gives extensive coverage of all the sessions

Change Management: Business Opportunity in Customer Centricity, March 12

Mar 05, 2019

FinDev's webinar takes place March 12th in which CGAP's Gerhard Coetzee will discuss steps that management teams can take when shifting to a more customer-centric model

In NextBillion: Client Protection in the Age of Fintech: New Standards Promote Best Practices in Digital Finance

Mar 01, 2019

Technology has vast potential to improve lives, and financial inclusion is no exception. Yet with half a million digital borrowers blacklisted on Transunion Credit Reference Bureau in Kenya – many for defaulting on loans of just a few dollars – it’s clear that digital finance also has its downsides.

Registration open for MFC's Annual Conference, 29-31 May 2019

Mar 01, 2019

Check out the programme for e-MFP member MFC's Annual Conference in Istanbul 29-31, May 2019 - registration is now open

NpM and FMO Webinar: Technological Innovations to Enable Farmer Finance

Feb 15, 2019

NpM, Platform for Inclusive Finance and FMO will hold a webinar discussion on 'Technological Innovations to Enable Farmer Finance' on Tuesday, 19 February, at 10:30 AM CET

Webinar: What makes a FinTech Inclusive?

Feb 08, 2019

Join FinDev and Mix on 14th February for a webinar which aims to provide clarity into inclusive fintech and, specifically, how to determine what makes a fintech "inclusive

Submission deadline extended- call for papers: 6th European Research Conference on Microfinance

Feb 05, 2019

Extended abstracts or full papers (if available) submission deadline is 15th of February 2019.

Save the Date - EMW 2019!

Feb 04, 2019

Mark your calendar and join us for European Microfinance Week in Luxembourg, 20th - 22nd November.

Training in business plans and financial projections (Microvision, new Microfact tool)

Jan 24, 2019

Participate in the first Microvision training, 18 - 22 March! Microfact is a joint initiative of e-MFP members ADA and BRS to strengthen the financial and social performance capacities of microfinance and microinsurance institutions. To do this, Microfact offers a set of tools and will soon launch its new Microvision tool, which will allow MFIs to develop five-year financial projections.

European Microfinance Award 2018 Brochure out now

Jan 21, 2019

Read how the winner and finalists of the European Microfinance Award 2018 on Financial Inclusion through Technology have creatively used technology to improve the quality and efficiency of their services. This new brochure presents the background on the Award, outlines the selection process, the Award ceremony and showcases the Award winner (Advans Côte d'Ivoire, Ivory Coast) and the two finalists (ESAF Small Finance Bank, India and KMF, Kazakhstan).

Check out the e-MFP Winter 2018/2019 Newsletter

Jan 16, 2019

Our Winter 2018/2019 Newsletter is now out with: some of the EMW highlights and the European Microfinance Award ceremony; Spotlight on Advans Côte d'Ivoire, winner of the 2018 Award; an article on blended finance by BlueOrchard; update on 10 years of Grameen Credit Agricole Foundation, a look at the upcoming European Research Conference on Microfinance in June 2019, plus all the latest news, publications and activities from e-MFP and its members complete the edition.

Financial services for women: Agri-finance products for female farmers in Vietnam

Jan 14, 2019

NpM, Platform for Inclusive Finance (NpM), commissioned a study on suitable agri-finance products for female farmers in Vietnam as part of a broader study on the promotion of women entrepreneurship in agriculture through access to finance. This paper presents the results of the study aimed to analyse if and how women encounter constraints to effectively access financial services in agriculture and if they benefit effectively from accompanying non-financial services.

Register now for Frankfurt School's development finance courses

Jan 14, 2019

Registrations for the March 2019 intake of the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management development finance certification courses are open. New courses on Digital Finance, Agricultural Finance, Sustainable Finance and Blockchain!

In FinDev Gateway: Don’t Let Digitization Create More Inefficiencies

Dec 19, 2018

At this year's European Microfinance Week, Faisal Abdul Wahab participated in the panel called "Fintegration: Innovation Meets Legacy Systems." FinDev Gateway caught up with him afterwards to learn more about fintegration and how his company helps MFIs on their path to digitization.

In FinDev Gateway: How Did Advans Côte d'Ivoire Win the European Microfinance Award?

Dec 18, 2018

Advans Côte d’Ivoire has won this year’s European Microfinance Award, focused on “Financial Inclusion through Technology,” for its innovative digital savings and credit solution for cocoa farmers. Albert Sie Dah, Farm Operations Manager, sat down with FinDev to share more about their work.

Incofin’s Rural Finance Partnership technical assistance program promotes smallholder resilience to climate change through innovative agricultural insurance

Dec 06, 2018

Through its Rural Finance Partnership technical assistance program, Incofin IM is supporting two local microfinance institutions (MFIs) – Fundenuse and Micrédito – to implement the first ever meso-model agricultural index insurance product in Nicaragua.

MFC Webinar 19 Dec: Digital Presence of Microfinance Institutions – Opportunities and Enablers

Dec 04, 2018

Being present online is a must for microfinance institutions nowadays. However, a big question is how to do it effectively, so that the institution is visible to the customers they want to attract. This webinar organised by MFC, will present the ways MFIs can improve their visibility and positioning in the digital space in a cost effective way taking into account preferences of their clients and the digital capacity of MFI staff.

Call for consultant - European Microfinance Award 2019 on climate change resilience

Dec 04, 2018

The European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) is looking for a consultant to support the European Microfinance Award 2019 on climate change resilience, which is intended to highlight how the financial inclusion sector can help vulnerable populations adapt to climate change threats.

Explore the EMW 2018 photo galleries

Nov 30, 2018

Thanks to the more than 450 participants from 69 countries who gathered at EMW 2018! See what made it special in our photo galleries.

Catch up on EMW 2018 in our Plenary videos

Nov 28, 2018

Relive the European Microfinance Week plenary sessions on 'Financial Inclusion through Technology', 'Where next for microfinance: a view from The Founders' and 'Is there room left for the 'little guy'?: a debate on the relevance of Tier 2 & 3 MFIs' in the videos out now.

Save the date for the 2019 MFC Annual Conference: 29–31 May in Istanbul, Turkey

Nov 27, 2018

The MFC Annual Conference 2019 will be held from 29–31 May 2019 in Istanbul, Turkey

e-MFP launches 'Financial Inclusion Compass 2018' – first inaugural e-MFP Survey of Financial Inclusion Trends

Nov 26, 2018

The European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) has today launched the Financial Inclusion Compass 2018 – its new paper on emerging short, medium and long-term trends in the financial inclusion sector, based on a survey of e-MFP members and key industry stakeholders.

e-MFP's Activity Report Out Now

Nov 21, 2018

What our media partners are saying about EMW 2018

Nov 20, 2018

Many thanks to our media partners MicroCapital, FinDev Gateway, Le Portail FinDev, Accion and NextBillion for the excellent coverage of EMW 2018

Debating technology, partnerships, trends and institutions: EMW 2018 finishes with a look at past, present and future

Nov 19, 2018

European Microfinance Week (#EMW2018), organised by the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP), concluded Friday in Luxembourg, with an 'Oxford-style' plenary debate on the future relevance of Tier 2 & 3 MFIs, with Maria-Teresa Zappia from BlueOrchard Finance, Alex Silva from OMTRIX, Kaspar Wansleben from Luxembourg Microfinance Development Fund, and consultant Maude Massu debating the motion "This House Believes There's No Room Left for the Little Guy".

Advans Côte d’Ivoire, an Ivorian microfinance institution, wins the European Microfinance Award for “Financial Inclusion through Technology”

Nov 17, 2018

The €100,000 prize, awarded for the 9th time by the Luxembourg Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs, was given this year to Advans Côte d’Ivoire (CI) at a ceremony hosted by the European Investment Bank in Luxembourg.

Press Release: European Microfinance Week 2018 Opens with Focus on Potential – and Threats – of FinTech Revolution

Nov 15, 2018

The European Microfinance Week (#emw2018) conference was formally opened today in Luxembourg, hosted by the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP). A member-driven conference supported by the Luxembourg government, EMW continues to grow as one of the most important annual events in the financial inclusion sector, bringing together all branches of the industry, including e-MFP’s own members, to discuss trends, innovations, challenges and opportunities in inclusive finance in developing countries.

We'll be live from European Microfinance Week: Watch our Plenary Sessions 15 & 16 Nov

Nov 12, 2018

Can’t make it to European Microfinance Week? Don’t worry – you can watch our plenaries livestream on the e-MFP Facebook page. Mark your calendar and tune in!

NpM Innovator’s Challenge

Nov 09, 2018

Geospatial information technologies are available for smallholder farmers to boost agricultural production, however the link to finance is hardly ever made. In order to increase their yields, smallholder farmers need finance to buy inputs and fertilizers, to invest in storage facilities, among other things. The NpM Innovator’s Challenge incentivized technology companies to transform their geodata-based solutions for smallholder farmers and make them available for the financial sector.

Assessment of the Sustainable Performance of SME Finance Service Providers - new study

Nov 09, 2018

e-MFP together with the Social Performance Task Force (SPTF), is delighted to publish a study entitled "Assessment of the Sustainable Performance of SME Finance Service Providers". The study was drafted by Lucia Spaggiari, MFR, in collaboration with the e-MFP Investor Action Group and the Social Performance Task Force (SPTF) Social Investors Working Group and findings will be presented during European Microfinance Week.

DEG, AgRIF and Daiwa PI Partners promote mobility in Myanmar

Nov 09, 2018

Mobility is an important requirement for the economic development of a country, especially for rural regions. In Myanmar, for example, two thirds of all working persons live in the countryside. In order to improve mobility in the country, DEG – Deutsche Investitions- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft mbH, AgRIF – an impact focused fund which provides funding to financial intermediaries targeting smallholder farmers and rural population, managed by Incofin Investment Management and Daiwa PI Partners Co. Ltd. are investing into the firm Rent2Own, which makes motorcycles available in Myanmar. DEG, AgRIF and Daiwa PI Partners are supporting the growth of the company with equity to the amount of up to 9 million US dollars.

Now Out: The Universal Standards for Social Performance Management – Where do we go from here?

Nov 08, 2018

The Making Microfinance Investment Responsible (MIR) Action Group has published "The Universal Standards for Social Performance Management – Where do we go from here? " just in time for EMW! The new brief distills lessons from five years of promoting the Universal Standards as a framework for responsible microfinance by drawing on interviews and surveys with financial service providers, SPI4 social auditors, national networks, and investors from around the world.

In FinDev Gateway: What Is Crowdfunding and How Could It Help Financial Inclusion?

Nov 07, 2018

Crowdfunding is gaining in worldwide popularity. Some crowdfunding platforms specialize in impact investments. Who is crowdfunding for financial inclusion? Who is the crowd of these platforms and what deals do they fund? As part of this year’s European Microfinance Week, Marloes Noppen will participate in a panel on crowdfunding, together with representatives from Babyloan, Lendahand, LITA.co and Mekar. FinDev Gateway sat down with her ahead of this event to get a preview of some of the issues which will be discussed.

In FinDev Gateway: Go Big by Going Small: Serving the Needs of Smallholder Farmers

Oct 24, 2018

In the run up to European Microfinance Week, our media partner FinDev Gateway has published a blog from Hannah Seidek on the upcoming panel she is moderating "Go Big by Going Small: Serving the Needs of Smallholder Farmers".

3rd Inclusive and Sustainable Finance Research Conference in Luxembourg

Oct 24, 2018

The ADA Chair in Financial Law at the University of Luxembourg, Faculty of Law, Economics and Finance, is organising a conference on inclusive and sustainable financial research in Luxembourg on the eve of the European Microfinance Week, on Tuesday, November 13, 2018. All participants of the European Microfinance Week as well as all audiences interested in inclusive and sustainable finance are invited.

Incofin IM invests USD 10 million in Financiamiento Progresemos of Mexico

Oct 19, 2018

Leading impact investment manager Incofin Investment Management (Incofin IM) is pleased to announce the MXN 188 million (USD 10 million) investment in Financiamiento Progresemos, S.A. de C.V. SOFOM ENR (Progresemos), a leading rural Mexican non-bank financial institution serving micro and small entrepreneurs.

The State of Financial Inclusion: The Global Findex Nine Years on, 29th October in Paris

Oct 16, 2018

With the publication of the 2017 Global Findex database, we now have 9 years’ of trend data on financial inclusion. What have been the largest gains? What are the persistent gaps? Where should stakeholders working in financial inclusion focus their energies going forward? Join us in Paris on 29th October for this session co-organised by the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) and BNP Paribas.

Press release: MFC-EMN Annual Conference 2018

Oct 16, 2018

The Microfinance Centre (MFC) and the European Microfinance Network (EMN) organised their joint Annual Conference, in partnership with Seed Capital Bizkaia Micro, from 3-5 October 2018 in Bilbao, Spain. Focused on the implications of the digital revolution on financial and social inclusion, the event gathered about 650 participants – including representatives from European institutions, investors, microfinance institutions, NGOs and fintech experts – from 44 countries (East and West Europe, Central Asia, the Caucasus and beyond).

Save the Date - European Research Conference on Microfinance 2019

Oct 10, 2018

We are pleased to announce that the 6th European Research Conference on Microfinance will take place on June 3-5, 2019 at the Paris Dauphine University, France. This event is co-organised by the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Montpellier Business School and Paris Dauphine University in cooperation with the European Microfinance Platform.

Check out the e-MFP Autumn 2018 Newsletter

Oct 05, 2018

Our Autumn 2018 Newsletter is now out with: The three finalists of the €100,000 European Microfinance Award; Spotlight on e-MFP members and Financial Inclusion through Technology; Update on European Microfinance Week 2018; News from the Secretariat; articles on FinTech for Financial Inclusion: A framework for Digital Financial Transformation and Finance for Refugees: How do make it work plus all the latest news and activities from e-MFP and its members complete the edition.

Register now for European Microfinance Week, 14th - 16th November 2018

Sep 30, 2018

Registration is open for European Microfinance Week taking place 14th - 16th November, in Luxembourg. Every year e-MFP's top event gathers close to 500 professionals from all over the globe and offers excellent networking opportunities and the chance to learn from your peers.

Finalists for the 2018 European Microfinance Award are announced

Sep 24, 2018

On the 20th of September, the Selection Committee for the European Microfinance Award 2018 on “Financial Inclusion through Technology” chose the three finalists who will go on to compete for the €100,000 prize: Advans Côte d'Ivoire, ESAF Small Finance Bank of India, and KMF of Kazakhstan.

The CGAP Cross-Border Funder Survey on Financial Inclusion

Sep 21, 2018

The Funder Survey, which is driven by the participation of several funders, has become a reference for transparency and accountability. As CGAP marks the 10th anniversary of this initiative, the team would like to hear your thoughts on how the insights available from the Funder Survey can be improved.

New report - Finance for Refugees: The State of Play

Sep 11, 2018

'Finance for Refugees: The State of Play' provides an overview of the global potential market scope of refugees as well as a review of the sector's progress in the past few years. Remaining barriers are briefly described, including policy clarity, relevant information, legal barriers and funding.

The Impact Ecosystem, Luxembourg 24th September

Sep 10, 2018

Building on the successful event celebrating Luxembourg's Impact Ecosystem last summer, the Luxembourg Microfinance and Development Fund (LMDF) in partnership with the Ville de Luxembourg (VdL) will once again turn the spotlight on where business/finance converges with social/environmental.

Press release: The Shanghai Commercial and Savings Bank acquires an 80.01% stake in AMK Microfinance Institution Plc

Sep 04, 2018

Shareholders in AMK, one of Cambodia's largest deposit-taking microfinance institutions, have confirmed the sale of 80.01% of the Company's shares to SCSB. Current shareholders, Rural Impulse Fund II, Proparco, and the Cambodian Laos Development Fund (CLDF) have exited their shareholdings completely, while current majority shareholder, Agora Microfinance has divested part of its shareholding.

Press Release: Launch of the Microfinance Barometer 2018

Sep 03, 2018

The 2018 Microfinance Barometer will be released on 3rd September. Entitled 'Microfinance and Profitabilites', this 9th edition presents the key figures of the sector and explores the topic of profitability in its multiple aspects.

Convergences World Forum, 3rd - 4th September, Paris

Aug 27, 2018

Join e-MFP at the 11th edition of the Convergences World Forum taking place on September 3rd & 4th at the Palais Brongniart in Paris. More than 5,000 attendees and speakers from the business, solidarity, government, academic and media will gather to share ideas and build solutions around the theme “Make Society, Make Tomorrow”. See us at the launch of the 2018 Microfinance Barometer.

Report: Digital Transformation of Microfinance & Digitization of Microfinance Services to Deepen Financial Inclusion in Africa

Aug 24, 2018

Digital financial services (DFS) are spearheading greater financial inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa, with 338 million registered accounts in 2017 and a significant boost in penetration from 12 percent to 21 percent between 2014 and 2017.

Finance for All: Wedded to Fintech for Better or Worse

Aug 23, 2018

"Finance for All: Wedded to Fintech for Better or Worse", examines risks (or banana skins) in the provision of financial services to people in emerging markets who have little or no access to these services. Based on a survey of over 300 practitioners and close observers of the industry in 70 countries, the report finds that new technology is delivering considerable benefits to the financial inclusion market – but is also creating new risks that service providers need to manage if they are to succeed.

Delivering Futures Together: VisionFund's Annual Report

Aug 20, 2018

VisionFund International has released its Annual Report for the financial year ending 30 September 2017 registering strong growth and impact. With a gross loan portfolio of $601 million, representing growth of 18% year on year, VisionFund’s micro loans, financial services, expert advice and training helped more than 1.2 million entrepreneurial clients grow or improve their fledgling businesses to provide their families with nutritious food, health care, education and improved shelter. During 2017, more than 4.4 million children were positively impacted through this work.

Conference: Finance for Refugees; making it work, 7th September

Aug 08, 2018

The "Finance for Refugees; making it work" conference will take place 7th September in The Hague and brings together the donor and the investor community and provides them a platform to discuss this critical issue and work towards sustainable solutions for refugees.

Call for consultants - Project on Financial Health

Aug 03, 2018

The European Microfinance Network (EMN) is seeking to recruit one (1) consultant to coordinate and carry out research activities in the framework of a project on the financial health of micro-entrepreneurs. Deadline Monday 20 August 2018.

PRMIA & RIM announce Institution Assessment Training for Independent Assessors, 26-28 Sept.

Aug 01, 2018

RIM and PRMIA announce the RIM Institution Assessment Training for Independent Assessors taking place Sept. 26 – 28 in Luxembourg. This is an in-depth, 3-day training program designed for risk management experts, consultants, and consulting firms serving the microfinance industry.

Register now for Frankfurt School's development finance courses

Jul 31, 2018

Once again, Frankfurt School is offering development finance online courses starting on September 1st. Choose one of the 11 Certified Expert courses on Microfinance, Risk Management, Climate & Renewable Energy Finance, including two new courses on Digital Finance and Agricultural Finance.

VisionFund is hiring - International Global Insurance Director

Jul 26, 2018

VisionFund is looking for an experienced insurance professional who has the drive to build a business and a heart to serve the poor.

MFC-EMN Annual Conference, 3rd-5th October 2018

Jul 19, 2018

The Microfinance Centre (MFC) and the European Microfinance Network (EMN) are organising a joint annual conference “People and the Digital Revolution: Advancing Our Social Mission through Technology”, on 3-5 October in Bilbao, Spain.

Join ILO's Impact Insurance Academy, 10th - 14th September

Jul 16, 2018

ILO's Impact Insurance Academy, 10th – 14th September 2018 in Turin, Italy is a unique opportunity to learn from the ten years of experience and innovations in inclusive insurance facilitated by the ILO's Impact Insurance Facility

Oikocredit outperforms sector in microfinance outreach to women

Jul 12, 2018

Social impact investor Oikocredit continues to surpass the sector average for outreach to female microfinance clients, according to indicators published today in Oikocredit's Social and Environmental Performance Report 2017. In 2017 almost 90% of clients reached by the microfinance organisations in which Oikocredit invests are women. This compares to an average of 70% for the sector as reported in the latest Symbiotics MIV Survey, which presents sector data for 2016.

Where are we going? Complete the e-MFP Survey of Financial Inclusion Trends 2018

Jul 03, 2018

Today, e-MFP is pleased to have launched its inaugural Survey of Financial Inclusion Trends, giving e-MFP members, opinion leaders and sector stakeholders the chance to score and comment on the importance and direction of particular financial inclusion trends, as well as to express any opinions on what they think - or hope - will be the future of the sector.

e-MFP Summer 2018 Newsletter out now

Jul 02, 2018

Our Summer 2018 Newsletter is now out with: Update on the call for applications for the €100,000 European Microfinance Award on Financial Inclusion Through Technology; Past Awards revisited; Offsite Session - our joint event with the Financial Inclusion Forum UK; Preparations for the European Microfinance Week 2018; What Role can Microfinance Play in Increasing Access to Affordable Clean Energy?; Focus on the Responsible Inclusive Finance Faciilty in Southeast Asia (RIFF-SEA); 100 Smart Certifications - a Milestone for Responsible Inclusive Finance; a look at the new study 'Critical Capital for African Agri-food SMEs'

PRMIA and RIM Announce Merger

Jun 27, 2018

The Professional Risk Managers' International Association (PRMIA) and The Risk Management Initiative in Microfinance (RIM) today announce their merger to meet the growing needs of the risk management community and elevate their mission to set standards and serve the risk management profession.

Accelerating Financial Inclusion with New Data

Jun 22, 2018

This report examines how new types of data and new data tools offer an unprecedented opportunity for financial service providers to better understand and serve clients, especially credit-seeking "thin-file" clients who are otherwise excluded from the formal financial sector

Impact Insurance Academy, 10-14 September

Jun 15, 2018

ILO’s Impact Insurance Academy, 10th – 14th September 2018 in Turin Italy is a unique opportunity to learn from the ten years of experience and innovations in inclusive insurance facilitated by the ILO’s Impact Insurance Facility.

GIIN Annual Impact Investor Survey Shows Evidence Of Dynamic & Diverse Impact Investing Market

Jun 07, 2018

The Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN) today published the eighth edition of its Annual Impact Investor Survey, the most comprehensive collection and assessment of data on the global impact investing market. Respondents collectively manage over USD 228 billion in impact investing assets, a figure which serves as the latest best-available ‘floor’ for the size of the impact investing market.

“Microfinance for Housing: Is it Built to Last?”

Jun 05, 2018

When it comes to microfinance, people may automatically think of loans going towards businesses, yet, microfinance can also be used to support housing. Globally, people at the bottom spend around US $700 billion on housing. Lending in this sector is a relatively new area, starting out five years ago, and currently over 20 percent of micro-loans are used on housing. Although there has been an increase in demand for loans in this sector, it remains a niche.

European Microfinance Award 2018 - thanks to the applicants

Jun 01, 2018

The application period for the European Microfinance Award 2018 on Financial Inclusion through Technology has now closed. Thank you to the 27 institutions from 22 countries, representing nearly every geographical region, who have applied.

Contribute to the European Microfinance Week 2018 programme!

May 31, 2018

Preparations are underway for European Microfinance Week, 14th - 16th November 2018 and e-MFP is launching a request for proposals from its members for sessions which will take place during this year's prestigious event.

The Foundation Grameen Crédit Agricole publishes its Annual Report 2017

May 30, 2018

With €49.3 million granted in 2017, the Foundation expanded its activities to 32 countries. It supported 69 microfinance institutions and social businesses who accompany 3.2 million clients, of which 77% are women and 75% live in rural areas.

SPTF Social Investor Working Group meeting, 18-19 June

May 23, 2018

The next SPTF Social Investor Working Group meeting will take place in Luxembourg on June 18-19, 2018 and will be hosted by the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs (MAEE) in partnership with the Inclusive Finance Network Luxembourg (InFiNe.lu). This meeting is open to investors only.

Financial offers play dominant role in microfinance exits

May 22, 2018

A report that provides a framework to microfinance investors seeking a responsible exit reveals that financial offers have a greater influence on decisions than social goals.Entitled Caveat Venditor: Towards a Conceptual Framework for Buyer Selection in Responsible Microfinance Exits, the report, written by microfinance experts Sam Mendelson and Daniel Rozas, shows only a minority of investors hold the congruence of a buyer’s offer with a seller’s social mission as crucial to deciding whether or when to exit a project

ILO's Annual Report 2017

May 18, 2018

In 2017 ILO intensified its engagement with policy-makers and financial institutions - banks and credit unions, insurance companies and investment funds - to contribute to decent work through sustainable and equitable economic growth.

Client’s journey into microinsurance: Nicaragua & the Philippines experience, 7 June

May 14, 2018

The 44th Midi de la Microfinance becomes the Midi de la Microassurance (Microinsurance) with international experts invited to discuss the innovations in Nicaragua and the Philippines regarding the development of these essential services to protect the microfinance clients

24 May Webinar: Making the Case for Digital Learning

May 14, 2018

Join this webinar to hear from experts at FSD Africa, Kenya Commercial Bank and CGAP's Gateway Academy on how to strengthen the value proposition of digital learning sector-wide.

In MicroCapital: Q & A on the $120k European Microfinance Award for Financial Inclusion through Technology

May 07, 2018

MicroCapital: Each year, the European Microfinance Award covers a different theme. Why technology and why now? Christoph Pausch: We are at a fascinating time in the evolution of financial inclusion. A whole new range of technology-enabled solutions has the potential to reduce costs, improve efficiencies, facilitate communication and remove artificial borders for people who have been excluded from the formal economy. These solutions include credit, insurance, savings, payments and transfer services. As a strengthening alternative to cash, mobile money can have special benefits for women, rural communities and the very poor. Among the Award applicants, we hope and expect to see a real diversity of financial services providers beyond traditional MFIs, such as mobile network operators and money transfer organisations.

Helping microfinance investors responsibly select a buyer

May 02, 2018

"Caveat Venditor: Towards a Conceptual Framework for Buyer Selection in Responsible Microfinance Exits" - new research commissioned by NpM, in partnership with the e-MFP Investor Action Group and the Financial Inclusion Equity Council (FIEC). This new paper written by Sam Mendelson and Daniel Rozas goes beyond raising questions, and seeks to provide a template to help investors navigate the complex terrain of "responsible exits."

'Why the European Microfinance Award?' - watch our video

Apr 24, 2018

See why applying for the European Microfinance Award is a good idea in our video below. This prestigious annual award with €100,000 for the winner attracts applications from financial service providers around the world that are innovating in a particular area of financial inclusion.

Financial Inclusion on the Rise, But Gaps Remain, Global Findex Database Shows

Apr 23, 2018

Financial inclusion is on the rise globally, accelerated by mobile phones and the internet, but gains have been uneven across countries. A new World Bank report on the use of financial services also finds that men remain more likely than women to have an account. Globally, 69 percent of adults – 3.8 billion people – now have an account at a bank or mobile money provider, a crucial step in escaping poverty. This is up from 62 percent in 2014 and just 51 percent in 2011. From 2014 to 2017, 515 million adults obtained an account, and 1.2 billion have done so since 2011, according to the Global Findex database.

May 8th Webinar: Illuminated by Data: New Tools to Develop Financial Solutions for Smallholder Families

Apr 23, 2018

There are an estimated 500 million smallholder families - representing about 2 billion people - around the world. Together, they make up one of the largest potential markets for financial services in many developing countries. Yet, reliable data on their financial lives and options is scarce. New tools from CGAP, MIX, One Acre Fund, and i2i shed light on this important client group by putting demand- and supply-side data at your fingertips.

Check out the e-MFP Spring 2018 Newsletter

Apr 20, 2018

Our Spring 2018 Newsletter is now out with: Launch of the European Microfinance Award 2018 Financial Inclusion through Technology - details of how to apply for the €100,000 prize; Publication of our latest European Dialogue, Microfinance for Housing: Building New Foundations in Housing Finance; "Microfinance in the Americas from the Point of View of an Investor", an article from our member BNP Paribas; BlueOrchard looks at "SMEs and SDGs: Supporting Small and Medium Enterprises to Achieve the Sustainable Development Goals"; Social performance pioneer CERISE celebrates its 20th anniversary; Insights from the recent 2018 SPTF Annual Meeting/Customer Centricity Learning event; Updates from our Action Groups plus all the latest news and activities from e-MFP and its members complete the edition.

The Sustainable Finance Forum Luxembourg, 30th May

Apr 19, 2018

The Sustainable Finance Forum Luxembourg brings together the European sustainable finance community: policy makers, practitioners, public stakeholders and corporate and retail investors. The high-level conference, featuring business and political leaders, will address key regulatory and market challenges, the asset management industry’s role in sustainable investment, as well as how capital markets can contribute to a sustainable low-carbon economy

“Microfinance for Housing: Is it Built to Last?” - May 9th, London

Apr 13, 2018

The next Offsite Session is a joint event joint event between the Financial Inclusion Forum UK and e-MFP, and is generously hosted by Allen & Overy. The panel discussion will be on access to finance for affordable housing

New publication: Microfinance for Housing: Building New Foundations in Housing Microfinance

Apr 12, 2018

'Building New Foundations in Housing Microfinance' draws on the fascinating and diverse housing programmes of the 2017 Award winner and semi-finalists and distills the varied initiatives into seven factors for success.

European Microfinance Week 2017 conference report out now

Mar 22, 2018

Missed EMW 2017? Catch up now with our conference report which gives extensive coverage of all the sessions

Report: Financial Inclusion in the Digital Age

Mar 21, 2018

This report highlights some of the central frictions that prevent greater financial inclusion and financial well-being, and associated technological innovations that are fostering creative new approaches to mitigating these frictions for individuals and small businesses globally.

Sharing financial expertise in risk management: exchange between a coach and a coachee, April 18

Mar 20, 2018

This Midi will rely on a concrete example of coaching that took place between a financial consultant specialized in risk management with recognized expertise in banking in Europe and worldwide, and a Togolese microfinance institution

ICA European Research Conference, July 2018

Mar 19, 2018

In 2018, the International Cooperative Alliance (ICA) European Research Conference will be held in The Netherlands. At this conference, scholars, representatives of cooperatives and policy makers will exchange the state of the art on building and strengthening cooperatives in different sectors and different countries.

Seminar - The World of SMEs: Investors’ Perspective

Mar 15, 2018

On 19th April, InFiNe.lu in association with the Frankfurt School of Finance and Management, is holding "The World of SMEs: Investors’ Perspective" - a SMEs finance seminar which will focus on the investors' perspective.

Webinar: Can Financial Institutions Improve Employee Development and Retention Through Online Learning?

Mar 15, 2018

In an increasingly competitive space, employee development and retention are two key challenges for financial institutions in developing countries. One way they are addressing these challenges is by turning to online learning platforms such as CGAP's Gateway Academy

CGAP Smallholder Families Data Hub

Mar 13, 2018

Check out CGAP's new research tool for financial services providers who are looking to serve smallholders.

IWD: Serving women clients better

Mar 08, 2018

This week with International Women's Day, there's a lot of discussion on how to serve women clients better. During EMW we took at look at understanding women and their needs within the environment in which they live

New study challenges funds and governments to invest in African agrifood SMEs

Mar 07, 2018

The study from Rabobank Foundation, AgriProFocus, Food & Business Knowledge Platform and ICCO Cooperation, focuses on agrifood SMEs that form the 'missing middle': too large for micro-finance and too small for mainstream banks and private equity firms. A major conclusion is that there are very few investment funds that meet the financing needs of agrifood SMEs.

Latest GSMA report highlights success of mobile money with over 690 million accounts worldwide

Mar 02, 2018

The GSMA unveiled its seventh annual 'State of the Industry Report on Mobile Money', offering a current snapshot of the mobile money landscape and highlighting the impact that greater financial inclusion has on lives, economies and innovation. The report provides the only comprehensive picture of mobile money around the globe. Today, with more than 690 million registered accounts in over 90 countries, mobile money has evolved into the leading payment platform for the digital economy in many emerging markets. The report shows that, in 2017, the mobile money industry processed transactions worth a billion dollars a day, generating direct revenues of over $2.4 billion.

Save the Date EMW 2018 !

Feb 21, 2018

Mark your calendar now and join us for European Microfinance Week in Luxembourg, 14th – 16th November !

MIMOSA launches in India

Feb 20, 2018

We're excited that the newest MIMOSA findings will be presented first-hand by Daniel Rozas, with input from long-time India microfinance expert Sanjay Sinha and credit data expert Parijat Garg, on 21 and 23 February 2018, in both Bangalore and Mamallapuram.

Report: Protecting Savings Groups Reached Through High-Tech Channels

Feb 20, 2018

This MicroLead case study aims to highlight experiences of integrating client protection principles – the minimum standards microfinance clients should expect – into the initial design and roll-out of a digital savings product designed for savings groups

Customer Centricity: Enabling Financial Choices and Positive Outcomes for Low-Income Customers, February 2018

Feb 16, 2018

Meet e-MFP at the Customer Centricity Learning Event and SPTF Annual Meeting in Mamallapuram, India, February 19 - 22, 2018. This year's learning event - entitled Customer Centricity: Enabling Financial Choices and Positive Outcomes for Low-Income Customers - is an event jointly organized by SPTF, CGAP, Dvara and LeapFrog Investments

24th Annual Boulder Microfinance Training (MFT) Programs

Feb 15, 2018

Registration is now open for the 2018 Boulder MFT - with more than 30 courses offered by world-renowned experts in English and French, the Boulder MFT is considered an industry standard in microfinance training.

Register now for Frankfurt School's development finance courses

Feb 13, 2018

Once again, Frankfurt School is offering development finance online courses starting on March 1st. Choose one of the 10 Certified Expert courses on Microfinance, Risk Management, Climate & Renewable Energy Finance, and more

From Microfinance Gateway: More Than Just a House: Building Sustainable Homes for Rural Communities in Mexico

Jan 31, 2018

The Cooperativa de Ahorro y Préstamo Tosepantomin, which means "everyone's money" in Nahuatl, won the European Microfinance Award 2017 for its support to marginalized rural communities through housing construction projects, which include savings products, mortgages, and technical assistance. Álvaro Aguilar Ayón, Chair of the cooperative's Board of Directors, spoke with Portal de Microfinanzas about the cooperative's launch, their clients, sustainable housing product development, and the lessons learned along the way.

Free online course on the commercialization of microfinance

Jan 30, 2018

'Commercialization of social enterprises: Stemming the tide of mission drift'. Find out how to avoid mission drift when transitioning a social enterprise or microfinance venture into a for-profit organisation

New publication: European Microfinance Award 2017 Brochure

Jan 26, 2018

This new brochure presents the background on the Award, outlines the selection process, the Award ceremony and showcases the Award winner (Cooperative Tosepantomin, Mexico) and the two finalists (Mibanco, Peru and The First MicroFinance Bank – Afghanistan).

Certificate of Advanced Studies in Sustainable Finance (CAS SF) – University of Zurich

Jan 25, 2018

The CAS in Sustainable Finance covers the areas of Sustainable Investing, Sustainable Banking and Insurance, Microfinance, Microinsurance, and Emerging Market Finance. The courses combine academic training and research with current business practices, while promoting technical, methodological and social skills.

Check out the e-MFP Winter 2017/2018 Newsletter

Jan 22, 2018

Our Winter Newsletter is out now with: highlights of European Microfinance Week (EMW) and the European Microfinance Award; spotlight on Cooperativa Tosepantomin, winner of the 2017 Award plus an interview with Alavaro Aguilar Ayon from Tosepantomin; an outline of the e-MFP General Meeting of Members with an introduction to our new e-MFP Chair and Board members; an article on the new research center at University of Agder in Norway - CERSEM; a look at Making Microfinance Investment Responsible and EMW 2017 updates from our other Action Groups. All the latest news and activities from e-MFP and its members completes the edition.

Largest Non-Governmental Climate Insurance Programme Launches for African & Asian Smallholder Farmers

Jan 19, 2018

Over 690,000 families totalling up to four million people living in six low-income countries stand to benefit from a new climate insurance programme launched by VisionFund International, World Vision's microfinance arm and Global Parametrics, a new venture funded by the United Kingdom's Department for International Development (DFID) and by the InsuResilience Investment Fund, set up by German development bank KfW and managed by Swiss-based impact investment manager BlueOrchard Finance.

Call: European Research Conference on Microfinance 2019

Jan 17, 2018

Every two years since 2009, e-MFP organizes the European Research Conference on Microfinance in collaboration with European universities. The Research Conference is a unique event that gathers together high level researchers, academics, professionals and students ensuring that the latest research is disseminated to the whole microfinance community. e-MFP is launching this call for interest to find a host and organiser for the 6th edition of the conference in 2019.

New GIIN report- Lasting Impact: The Need for Responsible Exits

Jan 16, 2018

A report published by GIIN reveals a range of available strategies used by investors to strengthen their ability to exit in a way that meets liquidity objectives while also ensuring sustainable impact.

Call for consultant to support the European Microfinance Award 2018

Jan 10, 2018

e-MFP is looking for a consultant to support the European Microfinance Award 2018 on “Financial Inclusion through Technology”

Midi de la Microfinance: Client protection, MFI sustainability & interest rates: how to square the circle? 24th Jan

Jan 08, 2018

How can MFIs reduce interest rates whilst ensuring their sustainability? During this Midi, organised by ADA and InFiNe.lu, the audience will have the chance to hear and interact with experts coming both from the regulatory and the MFI sectors, from Africa and Latin America.

Video of "Financial Inclusion Regulation: Challenges for Emerging Market Economies and Developing Countries"

Jan 02, 2018

In case you missed the session at EMW 2017, catch up with the video of "Financial Inclusion Regulation: Challenges for Emerging Market Economies and Developing Countries"

From NextBillion: New Products, New Markets – New Risks? Microfinance Shifts its Gaze to Housing

Dec 22, 2017

Critics have landed plenty of punches over the long years of debate around microfinance's true impact on the poor. But to my mind, the industry's best response to these critiques has been to point to its singular success: Microfinance is "the only social innovation to: (1) reach global scale, (2) build a complete industry infrastructure, (3) tap into commercial capital on multiple continents, and (4) 'produce enough profit to generate actual controversy over the returns to social investments,'" as Grameen Foundation founder Alex Counts put it (paraphrasing a paper by Financial Access Initiative Managing Director Tim Odgen).

Photos & Snapshot Video from European Microfinance Week 2017

Dec 18, 2017

Over 490 participants from 66 countries gathered at EMW 2017 - see why in our photo galleries:

Digital and customer-centric solutions: a TED-style session - from EMW 2017

Dec 18, 2017

If you missed the TED-style session at EMW 2017, here's your chance to catch up on the entertaining session

From Microfinance Gateway: Microfinance for Housing: State of Play

Dec 15, 2017

During European Microfinance Week our media partner The Gateway sat down with Christoph Pausch e-MFP Executive Secretary, to discuss this year's conference theme: housing finance

From Accion: Customer Needs Should Drive Design and Evolution of Financial Services

Dec 14, 2017

A refugee settling in a new land, a family buying a home, a farmer nurturing her crops — every person has different financial needs — and loans, savings, and payment services should help them solve the challenges in their everyday lives. This year, European Microfinance Week focused on the heart of inclusive finance — understanding and interpreting customer needs.

From Microfinance Gateway: The Transformative Role of Insurance in African Agriculture

Dec 13, 2017

Katharine Pulvermacher and Stewart McCulloch spoke at the session, "The transformative role of insurance in African agriculture." In this interview, they provide insights on some of the discussions around this issue and the challenges in scaling up agricultural insurance for smallholder farmers.

From NextBillion: Will Microfinance Still Exist 10 Years From Now? Thoughts from European Microfinance Week

Dec 11, 2017

NextBillion's post from Paul DiLeo, Grassroots Capital Management:Last week, I moderated the closing plenary of European Microfinance Week, exploring the question of where microfinance – and MFIs – would be in five or 10 years. Panelists came from different organizations with varying perspectives of the industry

From MicroCapital: Clients Come Clean on Sneaking Contraception, Practitioners Move from Serving Women to Empowering Households

Dec 11, 2017

During the closing day of European Microfinance Week, Imran Matin of the US-based nonprofit Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA) stressed the importance of not just whether women will use financial services, but "what account ownership will translate into in terms of achievement." Foreshadowing a theme of the session, he added that "intra-household dynamics is very important and also particularly difficult to measure.

What's the media saying about European Microfinance Week 2017?

Dec 06, 2017

Many thanks to our media partners MicroCapital, Microfinance Gateway, Le Portail Microfinance, NextBillion, Development Finance and Accion for the excellent coverage of EMW 2017

Both Optimism & Cautionary Tales As European Microfinance Week Wraps Up

Dec 04, 2017

European Microfinance Week (#EMW2017), organised by the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP), concluded Friday in Luxembourg, with a provocative plenary that asked where the sector is heading in the next five to ten years. The closing plenary followed two days of workshops and plenaries: one plenary profiling the three finalists of the European Microfinance Award 2017 on Microfinance for Housing and another that sought to critically examine one of the core orthodoxies of microfinance – that outreach to women clients necessary increases women’s empowerment. Entitled “Women clients ≠ women empowerment: beyond the numbers”,

Live from EMW 2017 - watch recordings of Friday's plenary sessions

Dec 04, 2017

If you weren't at EMW 2017, or missed the livestream on Facebook, you can catch the exciting plenaries recorded by NextBillion

Cooperativa de Ahorro y Préstamo Tosepantomin (Mexico), winner of the 2017 European Microfinance Award

Dec 01, 2017

The Cooperativa de Ahorro y Préstamo Tosepantomin helps marginalised rural Mexican communities with their residential housing building projects by offering savings and home loan products paired with technical support. The cooperative is also recognised for its promotion of eco-friendly building techniques.

Affordable Housing Headlines Day One of European Microfinance Week 2017

Nov 30, 2017

The European Microfinance Week (#emw2017) conference opened today in Luxembourg, hosted by the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP). A member-driven conference supported by the Luxembourg government, EMW continues to grow as one of the most important annual events in the microfinance industry, bringing together all branches of the microfinance sector, including e-MFP’s own members, to discuss trends, innovations, challenges and opportunities in inclusive finance in developing countries

SMEs and SDGs: Supporting small and medium enterprises to achieve the sustainable development goals – Insights from a BlueOrchard Survey

Nov 23, 2017

Blue Orchard has recently published a new study on SMEs and SDGs exploring how to support small and medium enterprises to achieve the sustainable development goals

From ACCION: Bridging the Financial Services Gap for Rural and Agricultural Customers

Nov 23, 2017

Rural finance is on the agenda during European Microfinance Week. Far from the bustling financial centers of the city, people in rural areas have long been underserved by traditional financial institutions. While this is a problem for all rural residents, the lack of access to financial services is particularly difficult for farmers since it bars them from growing their agricultural businesses. We talked to Jonathan Agwe of IFAD to get his opinions on the challenges that rural clients face in accessing financial services, as well as the solutions to help reach them.

In Microfinance Gateway: What Are the Funding Gaps in Housing Microfinance?

Nov 22, 2017

In the run up to European Microfinance Week our media partner Microfinance Gateway talks with Sandra Prieto from Habitat from Humanity's Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter and Laura Hemrika from Credit Suisse about the upcoming session "Strategic Funding for Housing Microfinance."

From Le Portail Microfinance: Financement de l'habitat - état des lieux

Nov 21, 2017

In this interview (in French) with Christoph Pausch, e-MFP, our media partner Le Portail Microfinance takes a look at housing finance - topic of the European Microfinance Award 2017 and a key focus at European Microfinance Week, 29 Nov - 1 Dec

European Microfinance Week - coming up fast!

Nov 20, 2017

Are you working in financial inclusion? Don’t miss European Microfinance Week taking place 29 Nov – 1 Dec, in Luxembourg. Every year e-MFP’s top event gathers close to 500 professionals from all over the globe and offers excellent networking opportunities and the chance to learn from your peers.

From Le Portail Microfinance: La technologie risque-t-elle d'être un facteur d’exclusion plutôt que d’inclusion financière ?

Nov 07, 2017

In the run up to European Microfinance Week 29 Nov - 1 Dec, our media partner Le Portail Microfinance features an article (in French) by Alexis Lebel, OpenCBS & Jacinta Maiyo, Pamiga on digital finance, one of the many themes explored at EMW 2017

Join the Rural Outreach and Innovation Talk on 9th November

Nov 07, 2017

Kashf Foundation, which is a pioneer in women centric urban microfinance, has undertaken a detailed scoping of women led sectors in the rural economy along with MEDA to create a suite of products and services which can work for rural women in Pakistan. In this talk Zainab will present facets of women centric product development and preliminary outcomes and challenges from the pilot.

FMO supporting women and young entrepreneurs in Jordan

Nov 06, 2017

Dutch development bank FMO has agreed to provide a long-term loan of JOD 5 million (approximately USD 7 million) to SME-lender SANADCOM, a spin-off company of Microfund for Women, Jordan's leading privately owned Microfinance institution.

In MicroCapital: HR Challenges Within MFIs at European Microfinance Week: “Banking Is People”

Nov 06, 2017

In anticipation of European Microfinance Week, 29 Nov - 1 Dec, MicroCapital takes a look at one of the upcoming sessions "Investing in MFIs: Importance of Human Resources to Achieve Impact" with Rüdiger Meister, ADG International

Microinsurance Master - A unique Microinsurance Leadership Program

Oct 27, 2017

Want to master microinsurance? Starting end of February 2018, Microinsurance Master is a comprehensive 10-week leadership programme in partnership with Pioneer Insurance, ILO's Impact Insurance Facility and MicroInsurance Centre. Participants 'learn by doing' from industry leaders through training and coaching.

Join the Rural Outreach and Innovation Talk on 26th October

Oct 24, 2017

In this Talk, Justin McAuley will detail a product that VisionFund has implemented to automate the application process for loan officers in the field. Drawing on data from over 80 sources, the technology uses an algorithm to create loan terms appropriate to the financial situation of individual clients.

UNCDF and VisionFund present: What's next for Microfinance in Myanmar? 1 Nov

Oct 22, 2017

Economically isolated for decades, Myanmar has only recently opened up to the global community. With this came a lot of discussion about this South East Asian country being the 'last frontier' of financial inclusion. Microfinance legislation was passed in late 2011, but what has happened since? And what does the future look like? As part of Financial Inclusion Week 2017, join speakers from the UNCDF and VisionFund Myanmar to discuss what's next for microfinance in Myanmar

Microfinance in Europe: a view from the South

Oct 20, 2017

Today, as our friends and colleagues across the continent mark European Microfinance Day, we would like to offer a view from the South. After all, e-MFP occupies a distinct place – we’re a platform for Europe-based microfinance actors who are specifically focused on working in the South as their core objective. Like an astronomer atop a lonely mountaintop, we find ourselves in the heart of Europe, yet our minds are focused on the world beyond. So what does European microfinance look like when seen from the South? Well, it is a bit like looking at the stars – the light shines bright yet comes from a distant past. Microfinance institutions (MFIs) in Europe look remarkably similar to the global MFIs of the 80s and 90s -- small, local organizations with a deep focus on lending to micro-enterprises while maintaining basic financial sustainability.

Opening Doors with Housing Finance

Oct 19, 2017

The unmet demand for finance for housing is massive. Read what some e-MFP members are doing to fill this gap

Webinar: ESAF Small Finance Bank - Pioneering a retail distribution network for financing clean energy, 25 Oct

Oct 18, 2017

In India, energy access is a huge challenge; 80 million households have little or no access to grid electricity due to the lack of grid access in certain geographies. Providing quality, safe and reliable alternatives to kerosene and other traditional fuels means addressing two main challenges: distribution and affordability.

Fostering social equality through microfinance in Nicaragua: interview with Veronica Herrera, CEO of MiCrédito

Oct 17, 2017

Veronica Herrera co-founded MiCrédito in 2004 with the support of the Canada-based development association MEDA (Mennonite Economic Development Associates). “Empowering youth is vital to see the change in Nicaragua that we seek” Mrs Herrera says. “I believe education, in addition to microfinance, is a powerful tool to […] empower youth” she adds.

Join the Rural Outreach and Innovation Talk on 19th October

Oct 16, 2017

Join Marina Kortenbusch has she explores the most effective ways to facilitate communication across cultures and nurture communities that support green development. Building on her experience of establishing the BFC Green learning and communication platform, Marina will share insights into building networks, suggestions for tapping into social media, and lessons for the future.

Check out the e-MFP Autumn 2017 Newsletter

Oct 11, 2017

Our Autumn Newsletter is now out with: The three finalists of the €100,000 European Microfinance Award Great and a look at how e-MFP members are supporting access to housing for low income people; Update on European Microfinance Week 2017; Offsite Sessions - our events in Zurich and Utrecht; The InsuResilience Investment Fund - a Public-Private Partnership; BRS celebrates 25 years; Luxembourg Inclusive Finance Research Conference; plus all the latest news and activities from e-MFP and its members completes the edition.

In MicroCapital: “Lessons from Micro-leasing” at European Microfinance Week

Oct 03, 2017

In anticipation of European Microfinance Week, 29 Nov - 1 Dec, MicroCapital takes a look at one of the upcoming sessions with Manuel Hörl, Credit Suisse

Finalists for the 2017 European Microfinance Award are announced

Oct 02, 2017

The First MicroFinance Bank Afghanistan; Mibanco of Peru; and Cooperative Tosepantomin of Mexico Announced as Finalists for European Microfinance Award on Microfinance for Housing

Luxembourg Inclusive Finance Research Conference, 28 November

Sep 29, 2017

The ADA Chair in Financial Law (Inclusive Finance) at the University of Luxembourg, Faculty of Law, Economics and Finance, organizes on the eve of the European Microfinance Week the first Luxembourg Inclusive Finance Research Conference

Join the Rural Outreach and Innovation Talk on 3rd October

Sep 28, 2017

Join Ndumiso Mpofu as he describes market solutions which were used to increase the speed of recovery for communities affected by El Nino. Ndumiso will also present a summary of findings from recovery lending in fragile African states from November 2015 to June 2017

Save the Date - 3rd European Microfinance Day, 20th October

Sep 27, 2017

The 3rd European Microfinance Day takes place on 20th October - The aim of this initiative is to raise awareness at European level of the existence and added-value of the microfinance sector in its fight against social exclusion and unemployment

Symbiotics 11th edition MIV Survey reports 10.4% annual growth of global microfinance funds

Sep 26, 2017

Symbiotics has just published its 11th annual edition of the Symbiotics Microfinance Investment Vehicles (MIV) Survey. This unique study provides asset managers, investors and academia alike with the latest information of most of the world’s microfinance fund activity in emerging markets

Inclusive Green Finance: Investor Training, 28th September, Utrecht

Sep 18, 2017

e-MFP & NpM are holding a one day training for investors on green inclusive finance, prepared and delivered by Enclude BV, organised by the e-MFP Microfinance & Environment Action Group and hosted by NpM.

Microfinance Gateway Webinar: Behavioral Research: The Secret Ingredient for Consumer Protection Policy

Sep 14, 2017

Join Microfinance Gateway on September 20th for a webinar featuring a conversation between a researcher from CGAP and a policymaker from the Central Bank of Brazil which will demystify behavioral research and show actionable measures for policymakers working on consumer protection policies

Join the Rural Outreach and Innovation Talk on September 19th

Sep 14, 2017

Rural Outreach and Innovation Talks provide an ideal opportunity to share experience on rural development projects. Each Talk lasts 30 minutes in total, consisting of a 15-minute presentation followed by a 15-minute discussion.

New paper: Finclusion to Fintech - Product Development for Low-Income Markets

Sep 12, 2017

The Helix Institute of Digital Finance has released a new paper by Mike McCaffery and Annabel Schiff, "Finclusion to Fintech" which is designed to help fintech innovators understand the unique money management strategies used by low-income people in the developing world.

Report - 5th European Research Conference on Microfinance

Sep 11, 2017

Over 150 delegates and speakers from more than 30 countries attended the 5th European Research Conference on Microfinance - if you missed the event, catch up on the main highlights in the conference report now out.

Train with e-MFP at African Microfinance Week, 9 & 13 October

Sep 08, 2017

Following the success and positive feedback on previous trainings, e-MFP is holding two new trainings at the upcoming African Microfinance Week (SAM) taking place in Addis Ababa, 9 - 13 October: ' Training for MFIs: The opportunity of Clean, Resilient business: training on green inclusive finance for MFIs', 9th of October & 'Training for investment officers: Due diligence for MFIs venturing into SME finance', 13th of October

BlueOrchard Breakfast Events September 2017: Impact Investing – The Next Frontiers

Sep 06, 2017

Twice a year BlueOrchard organises thematic breakfast meetings in Zurich and Geneva. The next events will take place on September 27th 2017 in Zurich and September 28th 2017 in Geneva. During these events insights into BlueOrchard’s recent developments and the latest trends in the impact investment space will be provided.

e-MFP - partner of the 8th Microfinance Barometer

Sep 04, 2017

e-MFP is delighted to partner the 8th Microfinance Barometer released today. Convergences presents, in partnership with the National Federation of French Saving Banks (FNCE), MasterCard Foundation, the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) and Oikocredit, the Microfinance Barometer 2017, Convergences' historical main subject.With 132 million clients and a loan portfolio worth 102 billion dollars, microfinance consolidates its role a key lever for financial inclusion of marginalized populations.

RIM's Institution Assessment Training for Independent Assessors, 21-23 March 2018

Aug 31, 2017

RIM's Institution Assessment Training for Independent Assessors is an in-depth, 3-day training program designed for risk management experts, consultants, and consulting firms serving the microfinance industry

The Alternative Finance Forum: Between Fintech and Social Finance

Aug 22, 2017

The Alternative Finance Forum: Between Fintech and Social Finance, takes place on 5 October 2017 at the Copernicus Conference Centre (Warsaw, Poland). Gathering alternative finance experts, practitioners, policy makers, regulators and researchers, the discussion will explore the opportunities for expanding access, equity and gender balance in support of social and economic progress.

Call for papers FMA conference - Microfinance special track

Aug 11, 2017

A special track on “Microfinance” will be included at the FMA 22nd European Conference taking place 13th to 15th June 2018 in Kristiansand, Norway. This is the first time a special track on microfinance is included at a FMA conference and is a unique opportunity to disseminate research among top finance scholars

Event: Access to education – why finance matters, 11th September in Zurich

Aug 02, 2017

Hosted by the e-MFP, SMP and Credit Suisse, this event will address the factors that matter in applying microfinance to ensure adequate, affordable quality education and how to effectively achieve scale in this area of financial inclusion. The panel will introduce the winner and one of the finalists of the 2016 European Microfinance Award which focused on Microfinance and Access to Education. It will also explore the perspective of investors and technical assistance providers who are key in growing the sector responsibly.

Report: How Financial Institutions and Fintechs Are Partnering for Inclusion: Lessons from the Frontlines

Aug 01, 2017

This new report from CFI and IIF examines how partnerships between mainstream financial institutions and fintechs are addressing financial inclusion challenges and expanding access to the formal financial economy for underserved segments of the global population, particularly in emerging markets

'Making Finance Work for Women' Summit, October 24- 25

Aug 01, 2017

Women’s World Banking is holding its biennial 'Making Finance Work for Women' Summit in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, October 24- 25. The Summit will convene 300 participants in a variety of innovative sessions addressing the most important issues in women’s financial inclusion.

BlueOrchard's Social Performance Report 2017-2018 published

Jul 28, 2017

BlueOrchard's Social Performance Report 2017/2018 highlights the common vision shared with the United Nations in creating a better future and shifting the world onto a sustainable path

Leading Agricultural Lenders Deploy $682 Million to Support Small Businesses and Farmer Livelihoods Globally

Jul 20, 2017

Members of the Council on Smallholder Agricultural Finance (CSAF), which includes several e-MFP members, today announced in their newly published State of the Sector report that they provided $682 million in loans to 765 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) during 2016

Register for CSAF "State of the Sector" webinar, July 19

Jul 18, 2017

Interested in the evolving credit market for agricultural SMEs and the millions of smallholder farmers they represent? Register for the Council on Smallholder Agricultural Finance's "State of the Sector" webinar, which will take place at 10:00 a.m. (EDT) / 4:00 p.m. (CEST) on Wednesday, July 19.

ADA is hiring: Investment Officer

Jul 13, 2017

ADA is an NGO which plays a leading role in the inclusive finance sector in Luxembourg and internationally. ADA is widely recognized for its work supporting the autonomous development of populations which are excluded from traditional financial services.

In MicroCapital: Who Is Responsible in a Microfinance Equity Exit?

Jul 13, 2017

Now that three years have passed since CGAP and the Center for Financial Inclusion (CFI) at Accion published “The Art of the Responsible Exit in Microfinance Equity Sales,” this subject deserves a re-visit and perhaps expansion of the paper’s general principles into industry guidelines. As the financial inclusion and impact investment industries mature and grow, so does the issue of how investors committed to advancing financial inclusion can “exit responsibly” from the institutions in which they invest equity

Check out the e-MFP Summer 2017 Newsletter

Jul 07, 2017

Our Summer 2017 Newsletter is now out with: Great news on Luxembourg Government's continued support to e-MFP with the signature of a new agreement; Update on the response to call for applications for the €100,000 European Microfinance Award on Microfinance for Housing; Preparations for European Microfinance Week 2017; Offsite Sessions - our events in Paris & London; The Microfinance Industry: Revolution or Footnote? Lessons for the Next Ten Years - reflections form the recent workshop hosted by Lehigh University's Martindale Centre

PHB Development to lead digital finance session of Boulder microfinance training in July

Jun 21, 2017

Philippe Breul, founder of PHB Development, will teach in the French language sessions of the Boulder Microfinance Training Program, which will be held from 17 July to 4 August 2017 in Turin, Italy. In 2 one-week courses, he will share his experience and strategies in implementing digital finance.

PAMIGA is looking for a consultant in Digital Finance

Jun 16, 2017

PAMIGA is implementing a project to support the use of digital finance solutions in partner Microfinance institutions (MFIs), to ensure a sustainable growth in the MFIs selected, by reaching new geographical areas and underserved clients.

Blog: Recipes for Inclusive, Sustainable Housing

Jun 16, 2017

At BSHF we were very interested to learn about the European Microfinance Awards and really keen to hear more about some of the great practice being identified. We have been running the World Habitat Awards since 1985. In searching for and sharing the best examples, we have a lot in common with e-MFP. Our objective is to identify and highlight approaches to housing across the world which make outstanding contributions to people's living conditions. As a minimum we believe everyone should be able to afford their home, have access to basic services, and be free from the threat of eviction or displacement. This might seem like stating the obvious, but it isn't something that can be taken for granted.

Enabling womEntrepreneurs in Africa - Midi de la Microfinance, 5 July

Jun 15, 2017

This Midi will be dedicated to the female entrepreneurs of Africa. In Lomé as in Abidjan and Kigali, in an Africa ever more dominated by men, these women’s entrepreneurial task is threefold: they are domestic entrepreneurs first, then entrepreneurs of their future, and finally business entrepreneurs in their own society.

EIB/GDN looking for researchers from ACP regions for fellowships

Jun 15, 2017

The European Development Bank (EIB) and the Global Development Network (GDN) are looking to recruit 10 researchers for one year fellowships under a joint programme in applied development finance. The fellows should be nationals of countries in Africa, the Caribbean or Pacific regions

Best PhD Paper Award at the 5th European Research Conference on Microfinance

Jun 14, 2017

Congratulations to the winners of the Best PhD Paper Award at the 5th European Research Conference on Microfinance!

CGAP Webinar: Financial Services and Humanitarian Crisis, 20th June

Jun 13, 2017

Humanitarian crises pose a formidable development challenge. While the nature and incidences of these crises vary significantly, they affect tens of millions of people, particularly the most vulnerable

Unlocking the Potential of Youth Entrepreneurship in Developing Countries

Jun 12, 2017

Demographic pressure and the youth bulge in the developing world pose a major employment challenge. This situation is exacerbated by insufficient job creation, scarce formal wage employment opportunities and vulnerability in the workplace. For these reasons, fostering youth entrepreneurship has gained importance in the global and national development policy agenda.

UNCDF/MICROLEAD releases third DFS toolkit and case study

Jun 08, 2017

UGAFODE, one of Uganda's five deposit-taking microfinance institutions (MFIs), is now featured in UNCDF MicroLead's third digital finance toolkit: "Leverage an Existing Agent Network"

Reminder: Call for a Consultant: Training for Investment Officers - Due diligence for MFIs venturing into SME finance

Jun 08, 2017

e-MFP is looking for a consultant to conduct a one day training for Investment Officers on ‘Due diligence for MFIs venturing into SME finance’ which will take place on Friday13th of October 2017, in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) in the framework of the African Microfinance Week

Symbiotics’ latest white paper: “Why Microfinance Matters to Investors" now out

Jun 01, 2017

The white papers explores different factors that will contribute to a new investment paradigm over the coming decades, namely demographics, credit markets, and the global internet connectivity.

New Energy for Africa: Co-operative – Decentralized – Renewable, 27 June 2017

May 31, 2017

Can the know-how of German cooperatives – particularly in the field of renewable energy – be used for cooperation with our African partners? Can positive experiences with the decentralized energy transition be shared with African partner countries? How can cooperatives, municipalities and other decentralized actors get involved in a common effort with Africa?

Assisting social start-ups: From launch to impact measurement, 20th June

May 30, 2017

Convergences and BNP Paribas are holding a morning event (in French) 'Assisting social start-ups' 20th June. This event is aimed at social entrepreneurs who are launching or developing their projects

RIM's Institution Assessment Training for Independent Assessors, 20-22 September

May 30, 2017

Webinar - What’s next for Blockchain and Microfinance? 20th June

May 26, 2017

Blockchain, Bitcoin, Cryptocurrency. In the financial inclusion community, we have been excited by the potential of new technology and its ability to increase access in the markets we serve. But what is this technology? How will it benefit the poor?

European Microfinance Award 2017 - application period closed

May 24, 2017

The application period for the European Microfinance Award 2017 on Microfinance for Housing has now closed. Thank you to the 37 institutions from 23 countries which applied

GIIN’s 2017 Annual Impact Investor Survey now out

May 19, 2017

The GIIN’s 2017 Annual Impact Investor Survey is based on an analysis of the activities of 209 of the world’s leading impact investing organizations. Survey respondents collectively manage nearly USD 114 billion in impact assets

Interview in MicroCapital: Housing Finance and the 2017 European Microfinance Award

May 18, 2017

Read MicroCapital 's great nterview with Christoph Pausch, e-MFP Executive Secretary on Housing Finance and the 2017 European Microfinance Award on why was housing selected as the theme of this year's European Microfinance Award

Contribute to the European Microfinance Week 2017 programme!

May 17, 2017

Preparations are underway for European Microfinance Week, 29th November - 1st December 2017 and e-MFP is launching a request for proposals from its members for sessions which will take place during this year's prestigious event.

1 week to apply for the European Microfinance Award 2017 on Microfinance for Housing

May 15, 2017

There's only one week left to apply for the European Microfinance Award 2017 on Microfinance for Housing. The European Microfinance Award is a prestigious €100,000 award which attracts applications from financial institutions around the world that are innovating in a particular area of financial inclusion. Presented annually, it serves two parallel goals: rewarding excellence, and collecting and disseminating the most relevant practices for replication by others.

Gateway Webinar | Integrating Risk Management into Business Strategy: Tools for MFIs

May 15, 2017

Register now for great webinar on 17 May 2017 9:00 AM ET (U.S.) from Microfinance Gateway and RIM which features a practical methodology and a toolkit for microfinance institutions (MFIs) interested in developing a best practice risk management system

Blog: Building a market for Housing Microfinance in Sub-Saharan Africa

May 11, 2017

Housing plays an important role in household asset building – providing both a place of protection from vulnerabilities as well as a base from which to be economically productive. Even low-income people prioritize investment in improving their living conditions. The base of the pyramid is estimated to spend over $330bn annually on shelter. The question is why we lack financing for housing?

Register for the 5th European Research Conference on Microfinance, 12-14 June

May 08, 2017

Time is running out to register for the 5th European Research Conference on Microfinance - one of the primary meeting places for academic researchers working on microfinance. Organized by the Portsmouth Business School, in cooperation with the European Microfinance Platform and CERMi, the conference will draw together ideas from Europe and beyond which tackle the inclusion problem

New Study: Leveraging digital to unlock the base of the pyramid market in Africa

May 04, 2017

Deloitte and Mastercard have released a joint report titled ‘Leveraging digital to unlock the base of the pyramid market in Africa’, with focus on the waves of digital innovation in financial services. The report, released during the World Economic Forum on Africa (WEF), reinforces that digital technology is financially empowering more Africans

Luxembourg Government pledges continued support to e-MFP

May 03, 2017

We're delighted to announce that on 2nd May e-MFP signed a new agreement with the Luxembourg Government for the period 2017 – 2021, which guarantees the financial support required for implementing our new Strategic Plan. This firm commitment will enable us to build on our achievements and further develop our activities.

Call for papers: ITEM 8 - Financial Inclusion: A Sustainable Mission from Microfinance to Alternative Finance

Apr 19, 2017

The Burgundy School of Business will organize the 8th edition of its annual conference “Institutional and Technological Environments of Microfinance” (ITEM) on "financial inclusion" in Dijon, France on 7th and 8th December 2017

Global Symposium on Microfinance: Revolutionizing Microfinance - Insight, Innovation, Inclusion

Apr 12, 2017

The Global Symposium on Microfinance will be held May 22-23, 2017 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Check out the e-MFP Spring 2017 Newsletter

Apr 10, 2017

Our Spring 2017 Newsletter is now out with: Launch of the European Microfinance Award 2017 Microfinance for Housing - details of how to apply for the €100,000 prize

“Small Money – Big Impact”

Apr 10, 2017

Drawing on BlueOrchard’s expertise, "Small Money, Big Impact" explains how microfinance works and why. It illustrates through the experience of individuals, facts and figures the worldwide impact of microfinance

'Luxembourg in microfinance & inclusive finance' - new brochure out now

Apr 10, 2017

Over the past two decades, Luxembourg has actively supported the development of microfinance and inclusive finance as tools for fostering development and eradicating poverty

Oikocredit is hiring - Chief Risk Officer

Apr 05, 2017

Oikocredit is looking for a Chief Risk Officer (CRO) to join the team in Amersfoort, the Netherlands, to enable risk-informed strategic decision making

Publication of European Dialogue: Microfinance & Access to Education: Investing in Tomorrow

Mar 30, 2017

We're delighted to announce the release of the latest European Dialogue entitled Investing in Tomorrow, presenting the outcomes of the European Microfinance Award 2016, on Microfinance and Access to Education

Call for Papers - Research Meets Africa

Mar 29, 2017

ADA is pleased to invite you to submit research paper for the conference Research Meets Africa that will take place on 9th of October 2017 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

LMDF is hiring - Assistant Investment Manager

Mar 29, 2017

LMDF is looking for an Assistant Investment Manager, who can take responsibility for many of the investment and control processes in the microfinance and other Sub-Funds

PhD opportunity in International Management at University of Agder

Mar 27, 2017

The School of Business and Law at the University of Agder in Norway invites applications for up to seven full-time fixed-term appointments as PhD Research Fellows in International Management, including issues in Microfinance

Registration Open - Fifth European Research Conference on Microfinance, 12-14 June

Mar 21, 2017

The conference is being organised by the University of Portsmouth, UK in cooperation with e-MFP and the Centre for European Research in Microfinance (CERMi) with an overall theme of “Microfinance and Financial Inclusion”

Webinar Series on Risk Management for Financial Inclusion

Mar 16, 2017

Join the webinar series on Risk Management for Financial Inclusion hosted by Microfinance Gateway and Risk Management Initiative in Microfinance (RIM) to discuss effective strategies and share practical tools

Masterclass in Investing and Climate Change, Luxembourg 11 April

Mar 15, 2017

InFiNe.lu, in co-operation with VBDO (The Dutch Association of Investors for Sustainable Development) organises a masterclass on investing and climate change to share insights and best-practices and discuss the next steps institutional investors can take on this topic

e-MFP launches its Offsite Sessions - April events

Mar 14, 2017

We're delighted to announce our Off-site Sessions, a new activity developed under our Strategic Plan 2017-2021 that provides e-MFP with opportunities for more frequent touchpoints with its members and external stakeholders besides the European Microfinance Week.

BlueOrchard Breakfast Events March 2017 - The Rise of Private Equity in Impact Investing

Mar 10, 2017

Twice a year BlueOrchard organises thematic breakfast meetings in Zurich and Geneva. The next two events will take place on March 29th 2017 in Zurich and March 30th 2017 in Geneva

MFC Annual Conference, 24 - 26 May 2017

Mar 03, 2017

Registration is open for the 20th anniversary MFC Annual Conference “Horizon 2037: Fair Finance for All” which takes place 24-26 May 2017, in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

European Microfinance Week 2016 conference report out now

Mar 02, 2017

Missed EMW 2016? Now you can catch up with our conference report which gives extensive coverage of all the sessions

Housing Microfinance: An opportunity for vast impact

Mar 02, 2017

I could not have been happier when I heard that this year the European Microfinance Platform is focusing on housing microfinance. As a microfinance specialist for the last 21 years—and the last 9 exclusively dedicated to microfinance products for housing—I have witnessed the growth potential of this sub-sector of microfinance, as well as the constraints and limitations to the expansion of housing finance portfolios, amongst which the most important include lack of adequate capital and insufficient knowledge on how to develop differentiated housing finance products. When we hear that: at least 1.6 billion of the global population lives in substandard housing; at least half of the global population—3.5 billion people—currently lives in cities; and 828 million people live in slums (according to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals), both funders and financial institutions alike should take note and pay close attention.

Cordaid is hiring: Risk Manager

Mar 01, 2017

Cordaid Investment Management B.V. (CIMBV) is the subsidiary of Stichting Cordaid that manages all investments. CIMBV is an Alternative Investment Fund Manager registered at the Authority for the Financial Markets (AFM). We combine the unique ability to finance partners with grants, equity and debt instruments in selected countries across three continents. We have EUR 80 million of assets under management, predominantly investments in microfinance institutions (MFI's), small and medium enterprises (SME's) and funds with a social mission. Over 70 investees are being served worldwide

ALFI Impact Investing Conference, 26 April 2017

Feb 24, 2017

Climate Finance and the Social Development Goals will be the focus of this year's annual Impact Investing Conference organized by the Association of the Luxembourg Fund Industry (ALFI) in collaboration with the Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN), the European Microfinance Platform (e-MFP) and the Luxembourg Fund Labelling Agency LuxFLAG

European Social Enterprise Law Association Annual Conference, 28 April

Feb 15, 2017

ESELA, an international network of law firms, legal experts, academics and others specialising in the law as it relates to social enterprise holds its annual conference on the theme of 'Teaming Up in the Middle: How Business and Not for Profits Jointly Create Social Impact', 28th April in Brussels

The Women Effect - Invest Differently, 8th March

Feb 14, 2017

Save the Date for LMDF's event on 8th March 2017, Luxembourg

ADB/MicroSave Report: Accelerating Financial Inclusion in South-East Asia with Digital Finance

Feb 13, 2017

A recent report from the Asian Development Bank, Oliver Wyman and Microsave looks at the role that digital finance can play in accelerating financial inclusion, focusing on four Southeast Asian markets – Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Myanmar

Protected: Major Agricultural Lenders Adopt Shared Social and Environmental Principles

Feb 06, 2017

Members of the Council on Smallholder Agricultural Finance (CSAF) announced at their regional meeting that they have formally adopted a set of jointly developed environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. These principles apply across the nine members’ loan portfolios, which in 2015 encompassed $597 million to 672 businesses purchasing crops and providing services to two million smallholder farmers in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Blog: Why 2017 is our Year of Housing

Feb 03, 2017

Financial Inclusion. Housing. How often have you seen the two concepts appear together? If you think rarely – you’re not alone. Housing finance is that mysterious niche that crops up from time to time, but rarely makes headlines in our sector. And that’s both a conundrum and a shame.

Cordaid is hiring: Compliance Officer

Feb 02, 2017

Cordaid Investment Management B.V. (CIM B.V.) is the subsidiary of Cordaid that manages all investments. CIM B.V. combines the unique ability to finance partners with grants, equity and debt instruments in selected countries across three continents. CIM B.V. has EUR 80 million of assets under management, predominantly investments in microfinance institutions (MFI's) and small and medium enterprise (SME) funds with a social mission and serves over 100 investees worldwide. CIM B.V. is looking for a Compliance Officer (32-36 hours per week)

IPOs in Microfinance: NextBillion's #MFICHAT on Twitter

Feb 01, 2017

Initial Public Offerings in microfinance tend to inspire heated opinions: Does investment boost the industry's growth, or compromise its social focus? NextBillion discussed the topic in a Twitter chat on January 30, 2017

7th European Microfinance Award Brochure

Jan 27, 2017

This new brochure presents the background on the Award, outlines the selection process, the Award ceremony and showcases the Award winner (Kashf Foundation, Pakistan) and the two finalists (Fundación Génesis Empresarial, Guatemala and Opportunity Bank Uganda Limited)

Daniel Rozas, e-MFP & Anna Kanze, Grassroots Capital Management discuss microfinance IPOs in NextBillion's podcast - a warm-up for Monday's Twitter chat

Jan 26, 2017

Listen to the NextBillion podcast and on Monday, Jan. 30, these topics will be discussed in more depth in NextBillion’s first Twitter chat, featuring Kanze, Rozas and Microfinance Transparency founder Chuck Waterfield – join us at 10:00 AM EST at #MFICHAT

Save the Date for NextBillion’s 1st-Ever Twitter Chat! The Subject: IPOs in Microfinance – 10:00 AM EST on Jan. 30

Jan 24, 2017

Don't miss Daniel Rozas in NextBillion's inaugural Twitter chat, which will take place at 10:00 AM EST on Jan. 30. You can follow the conversation at #MFICHAT.

DGGF Bidding Opportunity entrepreneurial ecosystems Mekong region

Jan 24, 2017

The objective of this assignment is to provide a better understanding of key challenges and obstacles faced by entrepreneurs, notably in accessing adequate finance to grow their businesses, in the following countries: Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam

An evening to discover "Microcredit in 4L", 1st March, Luxembourg

Jan 18, 2017

Take 25.000€ crowdfunded, 150 selected micro entrepreneurs, a Renault 4L car and 2 dreamers. Mix it all and discover an around the world trip supporting micro and small businesses through microcredit! Come and meet the team on 1st March in Luxembourg

European Microfinance Programme intake 2017-2018

Jan 17, 2017

The European Microfinance Programme (EMP) recruitment campaign for academic year 2017-2018 has started. Launched in 2005, the EMP is co-organized by three universities: Université libre de Bruxelles, Université de Mons and Université Paris-Dauphine and five NGO partners: ADA, BRS, CERISE, Positive Planet and SOS Faim. Courses are held in Brussels, on the premises of the Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management.

e-MFP Winter 2016/2017 Newsletter out now!

Jan 16, 2017

Check out the e-MFP Winter 2016/2017 Newsletter for highlights of European Microfinance Week (EMW); an interview with Ms. Roshaneh Zafar, Kashf Foundation, winner of the 2016 European Microfinance Award on Microfinance and Access to Education

NextBillion's Q&A on microfinance and fintech with Graham Wright, Microsave at EMW

Jan 13, 2017

NextBillion took the opportunity of European Microfinance Week to talk with Graham Wright, MicroSave about fintech - How can microfinance institutions go about leveraging fintech in their products and practices?

Blog: Microfinance Funds as catalysts for foreign private investments in emerging microfinance markets: evidence from a decade of data and analysis

Jan 12, 2017

Microfinance, a lead sector within the larger impact investing spectrum, has gained prominence from development-minded investors over the past decades. Initially, international funding into microfinance was generated largely from donor organizations, including public development agencies and private foundations. As the market gained traction, the role of private capital grew in importance as not only a means for microfinance institutions (MFIs) to reach scale, but also to increase their social outreach beyond what was possible with donor money.

Webinar: What's next for microinsurance?

Jan 11, 2017

VisionFund International is hosting an online discussion on 8th February about why the microfinance industry needs to fundamentally alter the way it thinks about insurance

Save the date EMW 2017!

Jan 11, 2017

Following last year's extremely successful event, e-MFP is pleased to announce that European Microfinance Week will take place 29th November - 1st December 2017, in Luxembourg.

From ADB: Financial Inclusion in the Digital Age

Jan 09, 2017

Key issues and policy suggestions for promoting financial inclusion are discussed in this new policy brief from ADB

Digital Financial Services: Are we realising their full potential? 19th January, London

Dec 22, 2016

Financial Inclusion Forum UK is excited to invite you to what promises to be a stirring and thought provoking evening “Digital Financial Services: Are we realising their full potential?” featuring Graham Wright, Founder of MicroSave and Anant Nautiyal of GSMA hosted by Citi on 19th January in London.

Top in 2016 - 'Guidelines on Outcomes Management for Investors'

Dec 22, 2016

The 'Guidelines on Outcomes Management for Investors' from e-MFP's Social Performance Outcomes Action Group is one of the top 2016 publications featured in the Microfinance Gateway's 'Year in Review: Top Ten Publications of 2016'.

Certificate in Law and Regulation of Inclusive Finance

Dec 20, 2016

The ADA Chair is launching the first edition of its Certificate in Law and Regulation of Inclusive Finance from 16th of 27th january 2017. This two weeks of executive training aims to deepen the students’ specific knowledge and skills in the field of inclusive finance law and regulation, with a focus on developing countries ensuring awareness of the topic of law and regulation in the inclusive finance scene for regulators, intermediaries and other inclusive finance organisations

Reminder: 5th European Research Conference on Microfinance - call for papers

Dec 15, 2016

The European Microfinance Research Conference is one of the primary meeting places for academic researchers working on microfinance. Since the first conference in Brussels, Belgium, in 2009, and its successors in Groningen, Netherlands (2011), Kristiansand, Norway (2013), and Geneva, Switzerland (2015), the conference has been a unique platform for academics to exchange ideas, build and consolidate networks, give visibility to their projects and to identify gaps and different paths for new research

Frankfurt School of Finance & Management 2017 courses

Dec 15, 2016

Frankfurt School of Finance & Management offers different programmes on Development Finance, which will help you to systematically and successfully develop your qualifications and to build your career while recognizing the social function of education

Empowering today’s women for the women of tomorrow, 31st January

Dec 14, 2016

Join VisionFund International's next private dinner 'Empowering today's women for the women of tomorrow' with VisionFund International's Social Performance Director, Johanna Ryan, on 31st January in London.

Geodata for Inclusive Finance and Food, 16 February 2017

Dec 14, 2016

Together with the the Netherlands Space Office and the Rabobank Foundation, NpM is organising its annual conference on the theme of Geodata for Inclusive Finance and Food

Symbiotics and CGAP publish report: “Microfinance Funds – 10 years of Research and Practice”

Dec 13, 2016

The market size of investments in the microfinance sector by specialized financing vehicles has increased over five-fold in the last decade. This is one of the many high-level findings coming out of the recently released white paper co-written by Symbiotics and CGAP about the 10-year landscape of microfinance off-shore investments.

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