About MicroVest: An Overview

MicroVest was created as a capital-mobilizing intermediary for microfinance institutions (MFIs).  We are organized along commercial lines with a strong private sector board. Our objectives are:

• to provide capital to microfinance institutions;
• to help build capital markets for the micro-enterprise system;
• to support self-sustaining financial institutions that serve the poor.

MicroVest seeks partners to help make financial markets work for poor entrepreneurs of the world by linking capital markets and MFIs.

An independent institution with a professional investment management team, MicroVest was founded by three non-profit institutions: CARE, MEDA and Seed Capital Development Fund. The founders bring:

• A world-wide presence with operations in over 75 countries;
• 50 years of experience developing micro- and small-businesses, plus hands-on experience managing MFIs;
• 150 microfinance programs and microfinance institutions; and
• A proven track record of creating and managing investment funds.

The MicroVest Board is composed of professionals with extensive international private sector experience. Our first fund, MicroVest I, LP  ("MV I"), was launched on January 1, 2004 with US$ 15 million in committed assets, with the potential to grow to US$ 75 million. MV I makes debt and equity investments in promising, existing microfinance institutions across broad geographic areas. As we grow, MicroVest will play a pivotal role in developing capital markets for microfinance with follow-on funds to MV1, specialized funds targeting sectors such as housing, and new financial instruments.