SIFTA in Action: Driving Innovation and Inclusion Across Europe
From July to November 2025, the SIFTA Program, led by the Microfinance Centre (MFC), delivered a series of impactful events designed to strengthen the microfinance sector and promote financial inclusion across Europe. These initiatives focused on microcredit, digital transformation, financial innovation and regulatory compliance − key pillars for building resilient and inclusive economies.
Empowering Local Development in Southern Italy
On July 28, Tricase hosted a workshop on Microcredit and Local Development, bringing together academics, business leaders, public institutions and third-sector representatives. Discussions centered on entrepreneurship opportunities in Southern Italy’s inner areas, youth engagement, civil economy and the socio-economic impact of microcredit programs. Experts shared strategies for combating depopulation and highlighted inspiring entrepreneurial success stories.
Digital Transformation for Loan Funds
On September 26, an interactive online workshop on Automation and CRM Integration equipped Polish loan funds with practical tools for streamlining sales processes. Participants explored AI-driven solutions (GPT/Gemini) for customer service and learned how to build a mini-CRM system, guided by an expert in UX design and digital transformation.
Boosting Microcredit Visibility Through Social Media
On October 1, Milan became the hub for Social Media Marketing for Microcredit. The event focused on digital storytelling, simplifying complex concepts and leveraging social media to promote microcredit and the social economy. Attendees practiced creating engaging content and learned performance measurement techniques to enhance outreach.
Strengthening Compliance and Risk Management
On October 8, MFC partnered with the Croatian Association of Credit Unions (HUKU) to deliver a webinar on AML/CFT Regulations. The session provided actionable guidance on regulatory requirements, risk assessment and internal controls, helping credit unions strengthen compliance frameworks.
Inclusive Finance for Greece’s Economic Development
On November 4, MFC co-hosted a pivotal workshop at the Bank of Greece titled Role of Microfinance & Inclusive Finance in the Economic Development of Greece. With opening remarks from the Governor of the Bank of Greece and the Vice Minister of Finance, the event underscored the importance of inclusive finance in building sustainable economies.
Cybersecurity for a Digital Future
On November 12, the webinar Cybersecurity 2025 – Staying Safe in the Digital World addressed strategies for enhancing digital resilience among MFIs and social finance providers. Led by IT expert Adam Bartosiewicz, the session offered practical insights into protecting organizations from evolving cyber threats.
Fostering International Cooperation
On November 19–20, the Lithuanian Central Credit Union (LCCU) visited Banca Etica in Italy for a peer-to-peer exchange. The visit focused on legal frameworks, ESG practices, digitalization and cooperation with European institutions − strengthening ties within the cooperative banking sector.
Exploring Future Trends at SFV Conference
As part of the Social Finance Vibe Conference, four SIFTA sessions tackled cutting-edge topics: EU financial instruments for microfinance, explainable AI in social finance, fintech models and carbon credit systems for microfinance clients.
These activities reflect SIFTA’s ongoing commitment to innovation, compliance and inclusive growth across Europe.