Practical Microfinance

Modern' or 'new paradigm' microfinancial services are reaching perhaps as many as twenty million people worldwide. These services are being provided by existing banks which have added microfinance to their product portfolio, by specialized microfinance institutions (MFIs) and by non-governmental organization (NGOs) which offer microfinance along with other services. This training manual is designed to meet the needs of those who train staff for banks, MFIs and NGOs. It will enable them to provide effective training for those who work, or may in the future work, in the field of microfinance. Practical Microfinance provides detailed step-by-step descriptions for twenty-two sessions which together offer a complete 5 to 10 day course on microfinance. The sessions cover a wide range of topics including: introduction to financial accounts; undertaking field visits; analysis of MFIs; group and individual lending; micro-insurance and micro-savings; and measuring the impact of microfinance. An introductory chapter includes advice on how to use the material in the book and a list of recommended resources and full index are provided for ease of reference.