Become an Ambassador

Accion's Ambassadors Program is a volunteer program whose goal is to send dedicated individuals to the field to document the impact of microfinance on the lives of microentrepreneurs. It is a unique experience that offers participants rare exposure to the work of our partners in the field of microfinance. Since piloting the program in 2010, we have sent more than 40 volunteers to the field to work alongside 10 partner institutions.

How the Program Works

• Ambassador placements are made to fit the unique skills and interests of qualified candidates, as well as the needs of our partners.

• Ambassadors attend an intensive training session at Accion’s headquarters in Boston, MA that covers essentials as to what to expect in the field, an introduction to microfinance and Accion’s work, and how to document field experiences through blogs and photographs.

• Ambassadors travel to an Accion partner institution for a minimum of eight weeks.

• Once in the field, Ambassadors work independently or as part of a team. Responsibilities can include accompanying loan officers on client visits to record the stories of microentrepreneurs, conducting social impact assessments, or contributing to special projects within the host institution. There is no standard or "typical" Ambassadors assignment.

Benefits to Ambassadors

• Customized training from microfinance industry pioneer Accion from May 20-22, 2013;

• Field experience working closely with partner staff in a developing country; and

• Career development and networking opportunities through Accion Ambassadors alumni.

Questions?

E-mail ambassadors@accion.org with questions or to request more information about the program.

Read the Eligibility and Application Requirements >>

The Accion Ambassadors Program application is closed for 2013 and will open again in January for 2014 placement opportunities.