IGA Loan under INRICH Program

Project Summary

The Sustainable Income Generating Activity (IGA) Loan under the INRICH Program was implemented by Shishu Niloy Foundation (SNF) with financial support from PKSF from October 2015 to 30 June 2026 in Elangi Union of Kotchandpur Upazila, Jhenaidah District. The project was designed to improve the livelihoods of ultra-poor, poor, and lower-middle-income households by providing access to affordable financial services for income-generating activities.

The project was implemented by a dedicated team of 9 staff members. During the implementation period, PKSF provided BDT 17.35 crore through 17 installments. A total of 1,522 beneficiaries (347 men and 1,175 women) received financial support and technical guidance to establish or expand sustainable livelihood activities. The project officially concluded on 30 June 2026 after successfully completing its implementation period.

Goal

To reduce poverty and improve the socio-economic condition of ultra-poor, poor, and lower-middle-income households by creating sustainable income and employment opportunities through inclusive financial services.

Objectives

  • Provide accessible and affordable loans for income-generating activities.
  • Promote sustainable self-employment and small enterprise development.
  • Increase household income and strengthen economic resilience.
  • Support sector-based investments according to beneficiaries’ skills and local market opportunities.
  • Enhance the financial inclusion of disadvantaged communities under the INRICH Program.
  • Provide loans up to BDT 10 lakh for eligible income-generating enterprises.

Impact

The project significantly contributed to improving the livelihoods of participating households. Increased access to capital enabled beneficiaries to expand agricultural activities, livestock rearing, small businesses, and other productive enterprises. Many families experienced improved household income, greater financial stability, enhanced food security, and increased capacity to invest in education, healthcare, and productive assets. Women’s active participation further strengthened their economic empowerment and decision-making role within their families.

Achievement

  • Successfully implemented the project for more than ten years.
  • Mobilized BDT 17.35 crore of financial support from PKSF.
  • Served 1,522 beneficiaries, with women representing over three-fourths of the participants.
  • Expanded access to productive loans for diverse income-generating sectors.
  • Strengthened sustainable livelihoods through sector-based enterprise financing.
  • Developed a reliable and community-oriented microfinance service that supported long-term poverty reduction efforts.

Challenges

  • Economic fluctuations affecting the profitability of small enterprises.
  • Climate-related risks impacting agricultural and livestock-based investments.
  • Limited business and financial management skills among some borrowers.
  • Rising production costs and market price volatility.
  • Ensuring timely loan repayment during periods of economic hardship and natural disasters.

Learning

The implementation of the Sustainable IGA Loan under the INRICH Program demonstrated that access to appropriate financial services, combined with close monitoring and beneficiary support, can substantially improve the livelihoods of vulnerable households. The project also highlighted the importance of women’s participation, enterprise diversification, financial literacy, and continuous capacity-building in ensuring sustainable poverty reduction. Strong collaboration between SNF, PKSF, and local communities proved to be a key factor in achieving lasting development outcomes.

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