CGAP Pro-Poor Innovation Challenge

Extending financial services to larger numbers of very poor populations continues to be one of the biggest challenges facing the microfinance industry. CGAP's poverty agenda has therefore always focused on a commitment to demonstrate that the financial frontier could indeed be deepened to reach poorer people and that services can be designed to reduce their vulnerability and increase their economic well being. The Pro-Poor Innovation Challenge (PPIC) has been a cornerstone of this agenda, funding smaller institutions that demonstrate effective models and methodologies for deepening poverty outreach and impact, while working toward sustainability. The PPIC awards, of up to $50,000 to five institutions, to be used for technical assistance and other expenses related to the specific pro-poor program.