Financial Inclusion for Women

This Slide Deck is a supplement to the official CGAP Blog "Which Kind of Microfinance Institutions Can Serve Women Best?” (May 2024). 

The blog argues that despite the significant strides that have been made in recent years toward greater gender equality in financial inclusion, women remain disadvantaged. The blog is based on an analysis undertaken by MFR and CGAP of over 300 institutions over the five-year period 2019 - 2023 (ATLAS database), and it explores trends, challenges, and successes in closing the gender credit gap for smaller borrowers. It asks important questions about optimal designs for institutional structures that can support more women clients more equitably and in more parts of the world. The data suggest a positive correlation between good gender outreach and institutions that tend to be smaller, organized as NGOs, and provide group loans. It also demonstrates that institutions with women on their boards exhibit significantly better outcomes for women borrowers.

The overall insights from this analysis shed light on the complex interplay between gender, financial practices and regional dynamics in the quest for financial inclusion. As stakeholders continue to push for gender equity, the blog argues that a more innovative and multifaceted approach—considering institutional size, type, geographic focus and, above all, the specific needs of women—is essential. The report highlights the areas where progress has been made but also underscores the persistent challenges that need addressing. 

Disclaimer

This work was commissioned by CGAP and funded in whole or in part by CGAP as part of its effort to monitor the state of the microfinance sector. Unlike CGAP’s official publications, the viewpoints and conclusions expressed are those of the authors and they may or may not reflect the views of CGAP staff.