The Role of Microfinance in Poverty Reduction and Transformation: The Case of Append Network

The project reviewed the root causes of poverty and the impact of microfinance as one of the wealth creation models being implemented in the Philippines and in other countries. Microfinance along with the associated development-oriented services is one of the most promising solidarity economy models with the potentials to generate profit, emancipate the poor from poverty and conserve the environment.

The focus of the research was on how to expand and sustain the microfinance operations of the APPEND Network in order to provide quality of life to its target clients of five million poor people within the next five years. APPEND is one of the oldest and the largest microfinance providers in the Philippines. The project reviewed the impact of the APPEND's 'microfinance plus' being provided to poor communities, the health status and the satisfaction levels of the microfinance staff using the Joy at Work Staff survey. The project also firmed up strategies that will enable APPEND provide lasting solutions to poverty and develop microfinance as a functioning bridge to sustainable
development and community transformation.

The APPEND Network needs to build up social enterprises that will effectively respond to both the financial and non-financial requirements of the poor communities; should enhance its HRD (Human Resources Development) to equip its people in handling growth and expansion and finally has to strengthen its relationship with the government in helping the poor for greater and deep impact. The lasting solutions to poverty through various wealth creation models are possible if there is unity and solidarity with God, with people and with the environment.