New Partnerships for Innovation in Microfinance

Microfinance has experienced dynamic development. Today, microfinance providers reach close to 100 million clients worldwide and are growing fast. New partnerships expand the impact of microfinance even further. Three types of partnerships are examined in this book, each consisting of a thematic pillar. Pillar I focuses on equity investments in microfinance, especially the possibilities for engaging private investors through structured microfinance investment funds. Rating agencies are involved in providing more transparency in this emerging fund industry. Pillar II focuses on collaboration among microfinance providers, governments, private investors and technology companies which help microfinance institutions to integrate new technologies into their business models, reducing cost and increasing outreach to clients. Pillar III covers micropensions, microinsurance and the role of securitisation for the future of microfinance. From the reviews: "The book presents valuable information with a strong analytical tilt. ... targets economists and managers in banking and development finance organizations, as well as policy makers, international development organizations, and development agencies. Because it covers a range of issues related to funding microfinance, and is written in relatively simple language, yet intelligently argued, it can be used as a resource book for courses on microfinance funding and development. ... a useful read for practitioners in the sector." (Meryem E. Faris, Microfinance Insights, Issue 7, July, 2008)