Client Education
We believe client education is integral to the long-term success and sustainability of the microfinance industry.
Since 1995, we have been working on this key non-financial component of economic development through two major initiatives: Financial Literacy and Business Training. We partner with a wide range of organizations to deliver these programs including microfinance institutions, nonprofits, banks, governments and universities. Our partners deliver these unique training courses throughout the world – in local languages and in a culturally appropriate way.
Financial Literacy
Accion’s financial literacy program helps clients improve their ability to manage their personal and household finances and become informed and effective consumer of financial services. The core financial management skills provided in our programs allow low-income clients to move beyond credit to be able to access and effectively use important asset-building tools, such as savings and insurance. Financial literacy is also a critical component of consumer protection, creating knowledgeable clients that can more effectively use financial services and avoid the risks of over-indebtedness. Accion's program is targeted at low-income household members with low levels of education and includes courses on financial planning, cash flow, budget, investment, insurance, savings and debt.
In India, we have partnered with 33 microfinance institutions across the country. With the generous support of institutions like the Aga Khan Foundation in Bihar, we have been able to train more than 38,000 individuals in basic financial planning.
Business Training
Building on the skills introduced in our Financial Literacy program, we offer "Dialogue on Business," an award-winning set of business training courses for microentrepreneurs.
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