Client: United States Agency for International Development

1996-1997

In preparation for a multi-million dollar Assistance to Micro-finance and Implementation of Reform (AMIR) program, CARANA performed an assessment of the micro-enterprise sector in Jordan. CARANA worked closely with the USAID Mission to define its long-term goals and objectives for micro-enterprise growth. Our analysis involved evaluation of the capacity of selected micro-finance institutions for growth and self-sustainability, and design of strategies for the introduction of micro-enterprise lending services in the commercial banking sector. CARANA helped identify formal financial institutions with the most appropriate administrative and structural capacity to serve the micro-enterprise community. The results of the CARANA project helped link micro-credit objectives with the Mission's strategic and program goals of generating employment and expanding opportunities for private sector growth.