Our Work

IESC strengthens and encourages microenterprise lending through a competitive, annual grant program to microfinance institutions, or MFIs, who then “on-lend” to borrowers in the key sectors.

IESC also provides relevant technical assistance to MFIs to better understand risk and manage their portfolio of microenterprise loans. MFIs receive training on industry best practices, new product development, and outreach to women and youth entrepreneurs. Finally, the program trains and mentors microenterprises that receive financing, in order to ensure their success.

In 2014, the program received additional funding from Feed the Future to help MFIs reach Lebanese agribusinesses that have been  affected by the influx of refugees from Syria.