Microfinance

The Economic and Business Development Program (EBD) supports rural and urban projects that finance small- and medium-sized businesses or non-profit organizations. Support is made through direct investment as a grant or loan, education and training, policy and industry development or promotion.

The EBD believes that by providing the means for businesses to grow or people to create self-employment, societies remain economically active, grow exponentially, and allow equal opportunities at all levels of society. The EBD's microfinance focus area may be divided into the four sub-categories outlined below: investments, education and training, policy and regulation, and microfinance industry development.

NOTE: The EBD does not award grants on a tender basis, but does accept innovative proposals for potential consideration as related to its focus areas. The EBD does not accept proposals for programs within the United States.

Investments

The EBD helps finance programs for SMEs (small- and medium enterprises) and financially un-serviced sectors of society. View a list of organizations supported by the EBD under this sub-category.

Education and Training

The EBD seeks to further the development of the microfinance industry by emphasizing the proper development and understanding of microfinance activities. View a list of organizations supported by the EBD under this sub-category.

Policy and Regulation

Microfinance Industry Development

The EBD is committed to making a substantial contribution to the growth and sustainability of the microfinance industry by leveraging its positioning and skills. View a list of organizations supported by the EBD under this sub-category.