Improving Economies for Stronger Communities (IESC)
2000 M Street NW
Suite 250
Washington, DC 20036
Tel: 202-589-2600
Email: iesc@iesc.org
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Finance for Food Security and Women Entrepreneurs
Approach
IESC took a two-pronged approach that support both parties of small business finance: the borrower and the lender. The program partnered with USAID’s Development Credit Authority loan guarantee program to help banks use it more effectively and put local wealth to work.
For prospective borrowers
The program identified potential borrowers, supported them in the loan process, and assisted with business planning and growth.
For banks and microfinance institutions
The program trained and coached bank staff in administering, managing, and structuring loans to the agricultural sector in five focus areas: sorghum, millet, rice, livestock, and agroforestry.
For loan recipients
IESC provided business development services to better grow and manage micro and small business activities and business associations, and provided support to access new markets.
Summary
This program expanded access to credit for enterprises in the agriculture sector and for women-owned businesses in Mali. Through training, coaching, and mentoring, IESC strengthened these businesses to become credit worthy borrowers and worked with banks and other financial institutions to grow their ability and willingness to lend to these groups.
Program details
- Funders: USAID and Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency
- Duration: 2015 to 2020
- Award: $2.8 million
Results
- $7 million in agricultural loans
- 10 new loan products
- 90,000 farmer and other enterprises received assistance