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Initiative France: A Pioneering, Different and Successful Way of Handling Microcredit

Publication Good practices

Initiative France is an NGO founded in 1985. This article looks at their approach to microcredit and their innovative approach to loan disbursement where loans are in fact trust-driven instead of return-driven. It must be emphasised that the gratuity of the loan does not represent a charitable act but an economic investment with the aim of mobilising the solidarity of members in the same local community to promote economic development. Consistent with its mission, it offers a personal microloan, “loan on trust”, with a zero per cent interest rate, unsecured and free of charge, complemented by human and technical assistance such as business elaboration, networking, coaching and monitoring.

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