UNCDF is a multilateral donor agency under the administration of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It promotes a sector-based approach to financial inclusion and is both a facilitator and an investor in the industry.

UNCDF is known for its role in designing a Microfinance Distance Learning Course, which has been widely used by new entrants to the field of microfinance. This 11 module course is available for download free of charge. Click here for more details.

At the micro-level, UNCDF uses its flexibility to fund retail Financial Service Providers (FSPs) through grants, loans or guarantees. At the meso level, UNCDF often supports national microfinance associations in their advocacy and efforts to structure the microfinance community at the country level. At the macro level, UNCDF typically supports, in close partnership with other donors / partners, building the capacity of the Central Bank in its regulatory and supervisory capacity vis-à-vis the microfinance industry. This may include training (Boulder/Turin course Policy Track), study tours to lead Central Banks in their region, or engaging the CGAP Policy Cadre on specific regulatory issues.