Economics Working Papers
Publication Date
9-9-2019
Number
19012
Abstract
A nonprofit community development financial institution and Extension collaborated to conduct a demonstration project to evaluate efficacy of Grameen peer-group microfinance methodology in addressing barriers faced by lowincome women entrepreneurs in a small metro area. Program performance metrics achieved by 284 low-income, culturally diverse, primarily women entrepreneurs over five years included: a loan repayment rate of 99+ percent, increased average client income, savings accumulation at a local bank, and increased opportunities to improve average credit scores. Client surveys indicated peer-group methods, program structure, incentives for individual behaviors and group responsibilities provided opportunity to develop confidence, leadership skills, and teamwork.
JEL Classification
I3
Version History
Original Release Date: September 9, 2019
Departments
Department of Economics, Iowa State University
File Format
application/pdf
Length
13 pages
Recommended Citation
Edelman, Mark A., "Extension Demonstration: Grameen Microfinance Methods and Capital Access for Low-Income Female Entrepreneurs" (2019). Economics Working Papers: Department of Economics, Iowa State University. 19012.
https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/econ_workingpapers/77
Included in
Economics Commons, Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations Commons, Inequality and Stratification Commons, University Extension Commons
