Microfinance Working Group

Gathering and exchanging information about microfinance as a tool for poverty reduction.

Learning today, leading tomorrow

“The MFWG came together in response a tremendous wave of interest within the Columbia community in microfinance as a tool for poverty alleviation. Since its creation, the Group has provided students a forum to explore the many ways in which their studies at SIPA intersect with issues in microfinance and to learn about opportunities to apply their skills in the field " Anthony Gooch and Susan L. Grove, Co-Founders
 

CREATING MICROFINANCE LEADERS

The student-led Microfinance Working Group organizes lectures, panel discussions, mentoring services, networking events and access to career resources. Our goals are:

  • To promote the practice of microfinance to future policy makers, donors and practitioners
  • To serve as a vehicle for members to gather and exchange information about microfinance
  • To open access to experts that increases knowledge of best practices in microfinance
     
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    GETTING INVOLVED IN THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

    There are several organizations both within the Columbia system and in the NYC community that provide opportunities to learn more about microfinance. The MFWG cooperates with many of these groups. For example, NIFWG members at SIPA may become involved in the Managers for International Development Initiative at Columbia Business School, which participates in international economic development work and has sent students to field work assignments in Africa and Latin America.

    Events sponsored by the Microfinance Club of New York provide further opportunities for members to interface with microfinance practitioners and others with interests in the sector.

    Community organizations offer opportunities to gain hands-on microfinance experience:

  • ACCION
  • FINCA
  • Grameen Bank and Project Enterprise
     
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    INTEGRATING ACADEMIA WITH THE REAL WORLD

    Learning inside, but also outside of the classroom, is essential for anyone aspiring to become a practitioner of microfinance. This is why the MFWG provides ample opportunities for its members to engage not just in the theory, but also in the hands-on aspects of microfinance. This is accomplished through extracurricular activities that provide direct exposure to microfinance experts and alumni. The microfinance network of experts and alumni regularly attend events and interact with students. Many students have participated in events and succeeded in securing exciting summer internships in the microfinance field through exploring these networking opportunities.

    HOW CAN I JOIN?

    To become a member of the MFWG, simply contact an officer at any of the events on campus or subscribe to our online forum at microfinanceworkinggroup-subscribe@yahoogroups.com to receive information about upcoming MFWG events.