NorCalUrban

- ME has both direct and indirect impact on the overall economy. - It also reduces the reliance on the social systems (welfare, food stamps..) - Positive effects on families. Children see their parents succeeding (dignity building). Has inter generational affects. - Micro finance enables creativity on a local and personal level - 'Micro Equity' products are now emerging - ME lending is a 'wrap around' process including basic financial literacy training, etc... - Hear beyond the need for a loan. - "Grow' loans. Start small with clients, help them step up to larger loans. - Develop network of business owners. This can protect the investments by mutually growing businesses. Micro Equity Product: VC usually don't go down to ME lending Identify individually already in portfolio who have potently Specifically picking individuals Education about VC is part of the process pros and cons of VC money Accion NM founded LLC to capitalize loan fund: EQ2 products end up a...

I'm currently at the Summit on Micro finance in the U.S. hosted by Accion Texas in San Antonio. Micro finance is one of the next issues I'm interested in, since there is such a need in our community for developing small businesses. Micro enterprise (ME) in the US - Robert Annibale, Citi Much opportunity in the US immigrant communities Micro finance (MF) institution - one that brings financial services to the unbanked. Many types of institutions. Most are not empowered to take deposits. Mexico - 75% of families don't have access to financial services 12% of individuals in U.K. don't have bank account 12% of US adults are 'unbanked' - lack of financial services designed for their needs Low income Hispanic Small businesses, 'Mom and Pop' Needs are more than credit - it's about capacity building and providing access to other services Book: "Fortune at the Bottom of the Pyramid" Community focused banks are best positioned to play a role Supplie...