The SmartAid for Microfinance Index measures and rates the way microfinance funders work.
The premise of SmartAid is simple: funders with strong management systems are better equipped to support microfinance effectively. Its indicators assess five areas agreed by all funders as critical for effective microfinance: strategic clarity, staff capacity, accountability for results, knowledge management, and appropriate instruments.
SmartAid enables funders to understand how their systems, policies, procedures, and incentives affect their work in microfinance. An independent, external assessment, the Index highlights strengths and areas for improvement. It can also provide an impetus for funders to take action, prioritize changes, and hold themselves to account for their own performance.