Microfinance

Microfinance, from the days of the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh, has now become a world-wide industry, with over 180 million borrowers world wide and billions of dollars channelled to micro and small enterprises. Despite the higher interest rates, the unsecured lending by thousands of micro finance institutions have prospered and are growing. In fact, they are becoming a powerful tool of finance for micro enterprises, tempting major banks to set up micro finance departments across the globe.

Target Group: Microfinance professionals, micro finance officers, commercial bankers, development banking and finance institutions. Microfinance donor community and officials, microfinance and micro enterprise organisations, graduates wishing to work for microfinance institutions, Non-Government Organisations, trainers and consultants in micro finance.

Planned Outcome: An understanding and appreciation of the history of micro finance, leading microfinance institutions and their operations, increasing importance of microfinance in empowering micro, small businesses, role of commercial banks in developing microfinance divisions and lending to micro and small businesses, micro finance products and options, microfinance operating systems and procedures, client development and client management, micro and small business development strategies, focus on women entrepreneur groups, donor funds and key donors in microfinance, accessing donor funds for microfinance, microfinance interest rates, profitability, default rates and mechanisms for strengthening microfinance institutions.

Admission Requirements: Proficiency in English, minimum 5 years of work experience, preferably in the public sector Finance.

Where do I study?

Courses are delivered in London but are also offered in other locations globally, either directly by EDCL or in association with partnering institutions. 

What will I achieve?

A Certificate of Achievement from EDCL and St Patricks International College in Microfinance.

How much will it cost?

Fees are £1,990. Donor-funded, government or corporate sponsorships of larger groups will have substantial discounts.