The Foundation publishes its report “Our technical assistance system”

In order to share the experience accumulated since 2013, the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation is publishing its report “Our technical assistance system”.

Technical assistance programs serving our partners

In 2013, the Grameen Crédit Agricole Foundation made the strategic decision to embark on the activity of coordinating technical assistance programs in order to strengthen its impact capacity. Funded by the French Development Agency (AFD), "the African Facility" is the first support program initiated by the Foundation. It aims to support small microfinance institutions with high potential and a social vocation by granting them a loan associated with technical assistance activities.

The Foundation now offers six major technical assistance programs, in cooperation with major international organizations, to strengthen the network of microfinance institutions and impact businesses in Africa, the Middle East, Europe and Asia. This support activity has become one of the Foundation's four core businesses, alongside financing, investment and investment advice.

Diversify and structure your support programs

Since launching this activity, the Foundation has mobilized appropriate funding from institutional stakeholders. It also adheres to clear procedures based on international best practices and compliance with donor criteria regarding procurement rules.

The richness of technical assistance is reflected in the variety of coordinated programs, both general and thematic. With eight years of experience, it now has a proven capacity to strengthen its partners.

A contribution to its impact model 

Beyond operationally strengthening its partners, the Foundation also supports them in addressing the many challenges they face in constantly evolving environments and markets. Technical assistance programs help develop strategies for inclusive green finance, digitalization, and the financial inclusion of refugees, among others.

The Foundation also plays a role in promoting social impact banking practices. The Solidarity Bankers program contributes significantly to this within the Crédit Agricole group.

Lessons and recommendations

In 2020, with the methodological assistance of Cerise, an independent organization, the Foundation decided to conduct an in-depth evaluation of its technical assistance. It is now drawing lessons from this model through insights into the entire process: internal procedures, intervention methods, involvement of beneficiary organizations, choice of service provider, reporting, post-mission monitoring, etc.

Through this report, the Foundation reflects this work by sharing its experience with all those who contribute to the consolidation of the inclusive finance sector.

Discover the report