Access to financial services remains a significant barrier for many low-income and marginalized populations in Bangladesh, especially women, smallholder farmers, and informal workers. Recognizing this gap, Ghashful launched its Microfinance and Financial Inclusion Program as a pilot in 1993, later formalized in 1997 with the support of ActionAid Bangladesh. In 2005, Ghashful entered a new phase of growth by partnering with Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF), significantly expanding the program’s scale, reach, and capacity to foster economic empowerment.
This program has since become one of Ghashful’s flagship initiatives, designed to uplift underprivileged communities by enabling access to credit, savings, and small-scale investments. It empowers members—particularly women—to become economically self-reliant, build sustainable livelihoods, and improve their social and financial status within their households and communities.
The program operates with a strong commitment to inclusion, sustainability, and accountability. It supports income-generating activities across diverse sectors, promotes entrepreneurship, and contributes to job creation at the grassroots level. In addition to credit services, Ghashful also offers financial literacy training and guidance to help clients make informed financial decisions.
As of June 2025, the program is being implemented through 60 dedicated branches across 7 districts of Bangladesh, serving 72,251 active members with a total outstanding loan portfolio of BDT 245.46 million. These efforts are not just about financial transactions—they are about transforming lives, reducing poverty, and building resilience from the ground up.
Through this program, Ghashful continues to pave the way for inclusive financial ecosystems in Bangladesh, demonstrating that when people are given the tools and opportunities to thrive, lasting change is possible.
