Demand Analysis for the Creation of a Microfinance Resource Center in Western Europe

This document presents the results of the consultation undertaken in April 2002 with the objectives of:

• Identifying the need and potential demand for a Microfinance Resource Center (MRC) in Western Europe;
• Evaluating this demand (quantitatively and qualitatively).

The paper presents information about:

• The methodology;
• The microfinance institutions (MFIs) that took part;
• The questionnaire and its responses;
• The content of training programs;
• Financing the training.

The paper finds that:

• There is a need for:
  • Networking and exchange of information among microfinance operators in Western Europe;
  • A MRC in Western Europe;
  • Training.
• The existing technical support is unsatisfactory.

The paper lists the following objectives of the future MRC:

• Mutual learning;
• Dissemination of best practices;
• Diffusion of information.

It states that the MRC would offer:

• Practical and specialized services;
• Training and workshops;
• Personalized technical support.

It identifies a strategy for sustainable development for the MRC as follows:

• Development of volume;
• Diversification of services.

It concludes by presenting the following plan of action:

• Phase 1: A light and decentralized structure;
• Phase 2: Capacity building;
• Phase 3: Consolidation.