ICICI

Universal financial inclusion requires a systematic understanding of the markets, people and the local economies. This knowledge can then be utilised for the creation of a distribution network that facilitates flow of goods and services from and to these hitherto untouched markets. A few specialised groups within ICICI Bank are working to build this critical understanding and subsequently launch several initiatives which can deliver access to finance for all.

MFSIG - the Microfinance division in Social Initiatives Group is a sectoral entity that aims to address the needs of the poorest of the poor and vulnerable populations across the country. It provides funding support to institutions that address critical resource gaps within the microfinance sector. Over the past six years, this group has initiated several initiatives including the most successful of them all - ICICI Bank's Partnership Model. This group also concentrates on the most vulnerable geographies and sections of society that get excluded by other initiatives through the Centre for Universal Financial Inclusion (CUFI).

Universal Financial Inclusion also entails incubation and support of newer Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) across the country so that they can provide financial services to marginalised people and reach remote parts of the country as well. An Emerging MFIs Team within ICICI Bank is working on creating an eco system that can facilitate the creation of new MFIs and growth of existing small MFIs. This integrated support structure called The MFI Incubator in IFMR, Chennai will provide all possible support structures for incubation of new MFIs while also supporting existing small MFIs.

Case Study: Why does Satyamma smile
Case Study: The making of an MFI
Case Study: FINO, a shared technology platform