Title

Extension Demonstration: Grameen Microfinance Methods and Capital Access for Low-Income Female Entrepreneurs

Authors

Mark A. Edelman, Iowa State UniversityFollow

Publication Date

7-10-2020

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

G2, L26

Version History

Original Release Date: September 9, 2019

Revision: July 10, 2020

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" (2020). Economics Working Papers: Department of Economics, Iowa State University. 19012.
https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/econ_workingpapers/77