40 million people reached in 2016 by organisations financed by Oikocredit

Social investor and worldwide cooperative Oikocredit funded inclusive finance organisations reaching 40 million people last year, 84 per cent of which were women.

The results, released today, are part of a suite of outcomes indicators published in Oikocredit’s latest Social and Environmental Performance Report.

Inclusive finance represented 78 per cent of Oikocredit’s € 1,047 million development financing portfolio in 2016. The remainder was invested in organisations focused on agriculture — including 85 fair trade organisations — and renewable energy.

Oikocredit has also reported on new environmental indicators. In 2016 projects supported by Oikocredit provided clean energy for approximately 5,400 households and avoided 6,960 tonnes of CO2.

Thos Gieskes, Oikocredit’s managing director said: “With over forty years of experience Oikocredit is uniquely positioned to help address long-standing disparities, promote fair trade and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

“Oikocredit is committed to rigorous outcomes measurement and has an innovative, integrated approach to development financing. We believe in creating financial return through solid commitment to social and environmental goals.”

Read the full report: www.oikocredit.coop/publications/social-performance-reports