CIDA operations in microfinance and microenterprise development are conducted through three main channels. Established institutions can apply at CIDA headquarters, in-country at the missions, or through a Canadian partner. The geographic branches mentioned above have microenterprise specialists in both country units and technical units. Geographic branches are located at CIDA headquarters. See above for contact information.
Funding is available for microfinance through Canadian institutions working in developing countries.
Local organizations can partner with Canadian institutions and submit joint applications to the CIDA Partnership Branch. For fledgling institutions, CIDA must assess the risk of the institution and the governing individuals, which may include whether the institution has considered linking up with experienced partners. Canada Funds for Local Initiatives at the Canadian Embassies or High Commissions is one place to start. Local Embassies and High Commissions can make decisions to provide small amounts of funding for microfinance through the Canadian Fund. This provides a means to test or pilot a project, and if there is some evidence of success, then to continue support.