In rural Bangladesh, families face increasing climate challenges like floods and unpredictable weather, which threaten their livelihoods. Women often bear the heaviest burdens, with limited access to financial tools and decision-making power. This project tested whether microfinance could be redesigned to help women protect their incomes and adapt to climate risks, while also promoting gender equality. Thanks to your support, the results are clear.
Key Outcomes
- 91% of women increased their savings and income, using loans to start or grow small businesses.
One participant said, “I never thought I could save even 50 taka. Now I save 100 every week and run my own shop.”
- 78% invested in productive assets like livestock and tools, strengthening their livelihoods.
- 83% coped better with climate shocks by using savings or flexible loans instead of high-interest moneylenders.
- 74% adopted climate-smart livelihoods such as duck rearing and vegetable farming.
- 87% of households had enough food during lean seasons, supported by community-run food banks managed by women.
- Women’s leadership grew, with more women actively participating in community decisions. As one shared, “Earlier we had no voice in meetings. Now we speak, and people listen.”
- Early marriage declined: 68% of adolescent girls stayed in school.
- Gender-based violence decreased, with 69% of participants reporting more open discussions about women’s rights.
Proving Impact: Strong Social Return on Investment
An independent Social Return on Investment (SROI) analysis valued the project’s broad benefits—from increased savings and food security to delayed early marriage and stronger women’s leadership. It showed that for every £1 invested, the project generated £1.28 in social value.
This confirms that climate-resilient, gender-responsive microfinance creates lasting change—helping families build secure, sustainable futures despite rising climate risks.
What Made the Difference
- Climate-smart financial solutions: Loans and savings products were redesigned with built-in flexibility—letting borrowers pause repayments or access funds during emergencies, reducing financial stress when disasters strike.
- Targeted training for women: Participants received practical guidance on shifting to safer, more sustainable income activities—helping protect their livelihoods against climate risks.
- Stronger community preparedness: Food banks, livestock shelters, and a mobile early warning app equipped communities to respond quickly and protect assets before crises hit.
- Scaling impact through learning: Insights and best practices from the project are being shared widely, including at COP —shaping policies and microfinance practices to benefit even more vulnerable families across Bangladesh.