MFC Member Bailyk Finance Renews Gold-Level Client Protection Certification

We are pleased to share that MFC member Bailyk Finance from Kyrgyzstan has successfully renewed its Gold Level Certification in Client Protection, once again demonstrating their strong commitment to the highest standards of client care and responsible financial services.

This updated certification confirms the progress they have made since previous assessment and reaffirms their dedication to fair treatment, transparency, and continuous improvement for the benefit of their clients.

Join the SIFTA Webinar on AI powered services for microentrepreneurs and social enterprises: Innovative AI tools for business

Unlock the Power of AI: Practical Applications for Microfinance and Social Enterprise Finance

Discover how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way microfinance institutions and social enterprise finance providers operate. This hands-on webinar explores real-world applications of cutting-edge AI tools, designed to boost efficiency, enhance client service, and support smarter decision-making—no coding skills required.

Led by an expert in the field, the session will feature live demonstrations and case studies to show how you can seamlessly integrate AI into your daily work.

You’ll learn :

✅ The evolution of AI solutions in business processes – analysis of the latest trends and their implications for the microfinance sector

✅ Process automation and implementation of AI agents – case studies on improving operational efficiency

✅ Microsoft 365 ecosystem with Copilot – practical applications in analytics and client documentation management

✅ No-code development – creating dedicated financial tools without programming skills

✅ Advanced research using large language models – optimizing decision-making and information retrieval processes

This webinar is ideal for:

❇️ Microfinance and social finance professionals
❇️ Innovation and digital transformation leads
❇️ Development practitioners focused on financial inclusion

📣 Don’t miss this opportunity to explore how AI can drive smarter, more effective operations in the finance sector!

⚡Expert’s profile:

Mikołaj Tajchman is an AI trainer and consultant with extensive experience in business applications of artificial intelligence. He has delivered over 250 hours of workshops and trainings, working with companies like GE Healthcare, mBank, and Skanska. He specializes in making complex AI concepts accessible, with a strong background in logic, philosophy, and data science. Mikołaj also brings over 10 years of experience in project management and academic communication.

MFC Annual Conference: Last Chance to Register!

Registration is still open – late and on-site tickets are now available. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry leaders, peers and partners from across the sector. Secure your spot today and make the most of this unique networking and learning experience.

The conference kicks off on the afternoon of 27 May with an exclusive Pre-Conference CEO Forum: Navigating Geopolitical Shifts, Climate Imperatives & the Future of Finance (separate registration and payment required). Review AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS.

On 28–29 May, participants will explore a wide range of critical topics shaping the future of inclusive finance:

Strategic Outlook: Global perspectives on geopolitical shifts and their impact on microfinance
Navigating ESG Risks: From global trends to local resilience
Fair Green Transition and Microfinance
Inclusive Finance and the Path to ESG Excellence: Practical insights on ESG implementation
Securing Capital in Uncertain Times: Practical funding strategies for MFIs
Investing in Climate-Smart Agriculture: Solutions for MFIs and farmers
AI and Digital Transformation in Microfinance: Innovation, infrastructure, and regulation
Microfinance in Georgia: A resilience model in a changing region
Ensuring a Stable Regulatory Framework
Cambodia’s Microfinance Journey: Lessons from boom and bust
Annual Microfinance Associations’ Meeting

What’s New This Year?

Expanded Networking
2.5 days of meaningful connections and peer exchange
Pre-Conference CEO Forum
An exclusive space for visionary CEOs to explore the future of finance and climate action
More Sessions
Deeper exploration of how geopolitics and climate challenges are impacting microfinance and vulnerable communities
New Investors
Fresh partnership opportunities and pathways to scale
Real-World MFI Case Studies
Insights from successful microfinance institutions across Europe and Central Asia
Pre-Conference Study Tours to Armenia
Firsthand learning from leading Armenian MFIs (separate registration required)
MFC Mobile & Web App
Network, plan your schedule and access all conference details at your fingertips
Georgian Hospitality
Discover Tbilisi’s vibrant culture, traditions and scenic beauty
Wine, Food & Music
A taste of Georgia’s best – all included
Unforgettable Social Events
Cocktail receptions and a spectacular Gala Dinner at the iconic Funicular Restaurant

Venue & Travel

The conference will be held at the Paragraph Freedom Square, a Luxury Collection Hotel in the heart of Tbilisi – just steps from the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

🏨 Take advantage of our exclusive hotel rates — check the accommodation options on the website.

Plan Your Participation

🗓 Dates: 27–29 May 2025
📍 Location: Tbilisi, Georgia
🔗 Register Now: https://2025.mfc.org.pl
📩 Questions? Contact the Conference Secretariat: mfc2025@pavgroup.cz

New Microcredit Fund Withdrawal Service – A Convenient Solution for MFC Clients in Bosnia and Herzegovina

MFC member Partner Microcredit Foundation (MKF) from Bosnia and Herzegovina has partnered with ASA Banka d.d. Sarajevo and Bamcard d.d. to introduce a new and convenient service for withdrawing microcredit funds. This collaboration allows Partner MKF clients to withdraw their approved microloans directly from a broad network of ASA Bank ATMs, without needing a physical card.

This service brings several key benefits to clients:

Accessibility: Clients can easily withdraw funds from ASA Bank ATMs at any time, day or night, at locations that are most convenient for them.
Simplicity: The process is straightforward and does not require a physical card, making it quick and easy to access funds.
Security: The system is designed with a strong focus on security, ensuring all transactions are safe and protected.

This new service aims to provide Partner MKF clients with a more accessible, simple, and secure way to manage their microcredit funds, reinforcing the foundation’s commitment to innovative financial solutions.

MFC Congratulates Aspekt on Being Named Most Trusted Partner in Financial Technology – Republic of North Macedonia 2025!

MFC would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Aspekt, our esteemed member from North Macedonia, for being named Most Trusted Partner in Financial Technology – Republic of North Macedonia 2025 by Global Excellence Chronicle Magazine!

This prestigious recognition is a testament to Aspekt’s unwavering commitment to innovation, excellence, and transformative solutions in the financial technology sector. Their work continues to make a significant and positive impact on the banking industry, pushing boundaries and setting new standards for what’s possible.

We are proud to be part of Aspekt’s journey and look forward to even more success and innovation from this incredible team.

Join an exclusive MFC assembly of visionary CEOs

MFC CEO Forum: Navigating Geopolitical Shifts, Climate Imperatives & the Future of Finance

27 May @ 14:00 – 17:30 (Limited Seats – Separate Registration Required)

Join an exclusive assembly of visionary CEOs to tackle the critical forces reshaping the future of inclusive finance. This dynamic forum will move beyond conventional discussions, offering strategic insights into geopolitical turbulence, the urgent climate agenda, and the ongoing financial revolution.

The meeting will commence with a networking reception, fostering connections among leaders. Following the forum, a CEO networking dinner will provide a further opportunity for in-depth conversation.

Part I: Decoding Geopolitical Risk & its Impact on Inclusive Finance (Expert Insights by Manas Chawla, Founder & CEO, London Politica)

Engage in a high-level discussion led by renowned geopolitical risk expert Manas Chawla. Drawing on his experience advising global leaders and institutions, Manas will illuminate the current geopolitical landscape and its direct implications for the inclusive finance sector. This session will explore how global instability and emerging crises can influence financial markets and the operational environment for MFIs, setting the stage for proactive risk management and strategic adaptation.

Part II: Climate Action: Leading Sustainable Transformation (Moderated by Jarek Dmowski, MFC’s Climate Finance Expert)

In an era of evolving global priorities, this session will address the critical role of leadership in driving climate action within microfinance. We will explore the findings of MFC’s latest research on climate initiatives within the sector, identify opportunities for greater engagement, and discuss the potential of new global climate finance initiatives to empower MFIs as catalysts for a sustainable future.

Part III: Key Tech Trends in Finance to Watch Out For (Insights from Petr Paklin, Moody’s Analyst)

Gain crucial insights into the transformative forces reshaping the financial landscape, drawing on analysis from Moody’s. This session will provide a strategic overview of key trends in emerging markets, the evolving digital banking scene in Europe, and the impact of artificial intelligence. Understand how these shifts present both challenges and opportunities for MFIs, enabling you to strategically position your institution for resilient and impactful growth.

This forum is your exclusive opportunity to connect with peers, engage with leading experts and gain actionable insights to navigate interconnected global developments, ultimately leading your MFI towards a resilient and impactful future.

Archil Bakuradze warmly invites you to join us for the 27th MFC Annual Conference

Archil Bakuradze, Chair of MFC Council and Chair of the Supervisory Board at Bank Crystal (MFC member and Georgia’s premier non-banking financial institution), warmly invites you to join us on May 27-29 in Georgia for the 27th MFC Annual Conference “Shifts, Shocks and Solutions: Microfinance in the Shadow of Geopolitics”. Registration is now open!

This year edition is under the Honorary Patronage of the National Bank of Georgia.

Explore the full agenda and plan your schedule to make the most of your experience.

Learn more and register today: https://2025.mfc.org.pl

For any questions, please contact the Conference Secretariat via e-mail: mfc2025@pavgroup.cz

SIFTA Training Program 2025: Practical Learning for a Changing World

The Microfinance Centre (MFC) is extending the SIFTA training program into 2025, continuing its mission to support the growth, sustainability and innovation of Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) and Social Enterprise Finance Providers (SEFPs).

We’re currently preparing a dynamic lineup of webinars and local workshops designed to equip practitioners with practical skills and share effective practices that meet the challenges of today’s rapidly evolving environment.

Key Focus Areas in 2025

✅ Technological Innovations
2025 brings rapid advancements in AI, automation and machine learning. These technologies are driving efficiency and enabling intelligent solutions across the microfinance and social finance sectors.

✅ Sustainable Development Practices
Institutions are increasingly integrating sustainability into their operations — embracing renewable energy, reducing waste, and strengthening their role in advancing broader environmental and social goals.

✅ Digitization
Digital tools are vital for maintaining productivity and client connectivity, especially in remote or underserved areas.

✅ Data Analytics
Data-driven insights are essential for understanding client needs, enhancing decision-making, and building lasting relationships through tailored services.

Upcoming Webinars

Topics planned for the 2025 webinar series include:

AI-powered services for micro-entrepreneurs and social enterprises
Improving digital and green skills of microfinance clients
Internal audit in MFIs
New product development: micro-equity
Credit scoring models for small MFIs
Financial planning and modeling
Building resilience through ESG practices
Managing a multi-generational team
IoT in microfinance: from smart farming to urban microenterprise support
Stress testing for smaller social finance providers
EU instruments & programs for microfinance and the social economy
Carbon credit systems for microfinance clients
Comparing FinTech models for microfinance clients
Agile governance for social finance actors
Mitigating digital risks in microfinance and social enterprise finance
Cybersecurity essentials
Stepping into leadership roles
ABC of AI-driven predictive analytics for MFIs
EIF social impact products
Leveraging sustainability ratings for strategic impact

Registration for these sessions will open soon on our website.

Local Workshops (H1 2025)

📍 Poland

Assessment of loan collateral from the legal perspective
Practical aspects of debt collection

📍 Italy

Social media marketing for MFIs and SEFPs

📍 Croatia

ESG overview and implementation strategies

Stay tuned for updates on our website:
🌐 https://mfc.org.pl/

We look forward to another year of impactful learning and exchange – shaping stronger, more resilient financial institutions across Europe and beyond.

Any questions? Please contact Joanna Zukowska: joanna@mfc.org.pl.

SIFTA 2024: A Year in Review

We are excited to share the successful completion of the 2024 SIFTA program! This achievement was made possible thanks to the dedicated support of our partners, experts, speakers, and participants who helped shape and implement SIFTA, strengthening the European microfinance and social finance community.

Throughout the year, we carried out activities in Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Lithuania, Poland, and Romania, providing valuable insights and training on key industry topics.

Key Training Topics:

📌 AI in Sales and Marketing Processes
📌 How to Benefit from AI in Microfinance
📌 Key Trends and Developments in Inclusive Finance
📌 Monitoring & Early Warning – Preventing Debt Collection
📌 How to Analyze Social Enterprises
📌 Lending Risk
📌 Developing the Greek Market
📌 ESG Demands – Lenders’ Perspective
📌 Smart Tech: Assessing MSME Creditworthiness
📌 Instruments to Support Social Finance
📌 IFRS 9 Compliance
📌 Risk Management
📌 How to Give Employees Constructive Feedback
📌 Accessibility in Financial Services
📌 Principles of Equal Opportunities and Non-Discrimination

SIFTA 2024 in Numbers:

✔️ 9 Webinars
✔️ 4 Tailored Trainings
✔️ 6 Code of Good Conduct Sessions
✔️ 11 Workshops
✔️ 4 Peer-to-Peer Visits
✔️ 2 Investment Readiness Sessions
✔️ 2 Portfolio Analysis & Pipeline Building Sessions
✔️ 2 Study Visits

We invite you to explore our webinar recordings on our YouTube Channel and gain insights from industry experts:

▶️ Watch now

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making SIFTA 2024 a success! Stay tuned for more initiatives as we continue working towards strengthening financial inclusion and social finance in Europe.

#SIFTA2024 #FinancialInclusion #SocialFinance #Microfinance #ESG #AIinFinance

SIFTA Program 2025: Training Opportunities for Microfinance and Social Finance Providers

The Microfinance Centre (MFC) is extending its SIFTA training program into 2025, offering a comprehensive set of training opportunities for microfinance and social finance providers (MFIs and SEFPs). These sessions are designed to equip institutions with the knowledge and tools needed for long-term growth and sustainability.

Key Training Areas for 2025

Financial Management – strengthening financial management techniques to enhance efficiency and sustainability
Risk Management – helping institutions identify, assess and mitigate risks effectively
Digital Transformation – exploring digital tools to streamline operations and improve service delivery
Impact Assessment – developing skills to measure and communicate social impact

These training sessions will help MFIs and SEFPs:

Improve operational efficiency and strategic planning
Strengthen risk management and financial sustainability
Adopt new digital tools and technologies
Enhance impact measurement and communication

MFC remains committed to empowering microfinance and social finance institutions through targeted training and development initiatives.

We will soon announce our 2025 open enrollment events. Any questions? Please contact Joanna Zukowska: joanna@mfc.org.pl.