Market Assessment
Microfinance market assessments precede the product design phase and shed important light on: the nature of existing financial services, potential demand for financial products, the market size, and the repayment capacity of potential clientele.
Product Design
Designing a microfinance product properly from the outset may be the most critical step in the startup of a microfinance institution (MFI). DIG experts provide tailored training and advisory services in the areas of business planning, product design and pricing, operational methodologies, and monitoring and evaluation
Systems & Tools Development
Establishing proper systems and procedures is the next step towards ensuring the successful execution and sustainability of a microfinance operation. DIG works with MFIs, commercial banks and NGOs to develop the full array of institutional systems and management tools, from loan applications and approval systems to operating manuals, employee incentive schemes, and MIS requirements design.
Training for MFIs, NGOs & Banks
One of the greatest obstacles to mainstreaming microfinance is the lack of adequate human capital. DIG helps MFIs, NGOs and commercial banks equip their managers, supervisors and field staff with the skills necessary to manage the myriad of challenges associated with running an efficient microfinance operation.
Supporting Regulators & Policy Makers
To a great extent, an economy’s regulatory framework determines the degree of access the poor have to finance. Therefore, in addition to providing institutional support for ensuring compliance with international best practice regulations, DIG actively researches and proposes pro-poor financial policies.
Linking Microfinance to Banks
DIG helps banks structure, train, and operationalize microfinance divisions. DIG also links commercial banks with MFIs through comprehensive servicing arrangements.
Youth Entrepreneurship
DIG helps create successful young entrepreneurs through innovative youth-focused microfinance and income generation programs. Through access to entrepreneurship training and credit, DIG provides youth with the resources and skills needed to start micro-enterprises and small businesses. Building these sustainable, demand-driven businesses is key to fostering economic growth and job creation.