Publication database

This brief article points out different aspects of innovation in low-income countries as well crucial impeding factors of innovations.

Is there a business case for microinsurance? Under what circumstances can insurance companies generate profits from microinsurance? These are important questions because insurers are increasingly interested to expand into the low-income market. To encourage this expansion, microinsurance initiatives need to demonstrate that they are commercially viable and sustainable over time. Briefing Note #9 assesses the business case for microinsurance through case studies of five microinsurance initiatives. 

This step-by-step guide provides information on linking informal savings groups to formal financial services. It includes key principles, recommended stages, examples and how-to advice.

This data summary provides a snapshot of more than 2,500 early-stage ventures that applied to over 50 acceleration programs in Sub-Saharan Africa, and includes regional insights for East and West Africa and country-specific information for Kenya, Uganda, and Nigeria.

This briefing document introduces the topic of value chains, the difference between traditional and modern markets and IFAD's work on value chains

Across the world, insurers have shifted away from traditional agents and brokers to partner with various alternative distribution channels – ranging from churches, trade unions and mobile network operators to banks, retailers and even civil service organizations - as a way of reaching critical mass at low cost. This brief examines two of these channels – banking and retail correspondents – studying four examples in four countries.

With 1.5 billion people worldwide getting access to financial services through a post office, postal networks are powerful tools to advance financial inclusion. Posts possess or can develop characteristics such as client understanding, product diversification, national outreach, rural advantage, and trust with clients that have the potential to transform postal networks into well-suited providers of insurance. Insurance is a relatively easy way for posts to diversify their sources of revenue.

The report outlines the data around INGOs’ current approaches to making investments, receiving investments, providing technical assistance, and building the impact investing ecosystem. It then delves into some of the most important issues for INGOs, including internal capacity, organizational culture, measurement, and partnerships. Each section is complemented by short sidebars that bring these topics into greater clarity through specific examples of how INGOs are engaging. These examples are then expanded into short profiles.

This document summarises four approaches for assessing social impact of companies: local livelihood assessment, poverty footprint/value chain mapping, economic contribution and tracking indicators. For each option, the purpose, strengths, constraints and relevant application of approach is discussed.

Background information on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations.