From the widespread (sometime raging) debates about the impact of microfinance, a mature perspective is emerging. While financial services on their own are not a magic bullet for poverty reduction, effective and continued access to affordable and appropriate financial services (not just microcredit) improve the ability of poor families to invest in economic opportunities, deal with household emergencies and external shocks and make better choices.

Since 2005, the Microfinance Club UK has provided an independent forum for all individuals interested in microfinance (irrespective of their skills, backgrounds and current role)  to hear, debate and influence the emerging issues in microfinance and achieve the club credo to learn, exchange, network and act.  While the club is based in the UK and most of its events are held in London, the club strives for wider impact. The club attracts leading voices from around the world who share their passion, achievements and insights with enthusiastic participants many of whom have subsequently taken up the challenge to improve financial services for the poor from their current or future role.  

However, the job is far from done. While many microfinance services providers have rapidly expanded their outreach and product offering and new providers have emerged, more than 2 billion adults still lack access to safe and appropriate financial services. How can these individuals and their households actively invest in a better economic future for themselves and their communities without access to better quality financial services?

We welcome you to the club and its future events.