Institute for Capacity Strengthening

CRS’ microfinance programs focus on delivering inclusive financial solutions to the poor, primarily women and vulnerable populations living in remote rural communities for whom the cost of accessing financial services is very high. CRS began its microfinance work in 1988 by building the capacity of local partners to own and manage credit-led microfinance institutions (MFI), and since 2006 has helped established MFIs continue to serve those most in need through promotion of a Responsible Inclusive Finance approach to their business. Today, CRS’ most impactful microfinance interventions are through Savings and Internal Lending Communities (SILC) programs also implement by building the capacity of local partners. SILC groups serve as a platform for the introduction and delivery of complementary products and services including financial education, business training, agricultural finance, microinsurance, couples dialogue training, and last-mile product distribution.

For some of the tools and capacity strengthening materials used in increasing Microfinance technical capacity, see below.