Smart Phone, Smart Business

By Shelley Spencer, NetHope Payment Innovations Project Manager, and CEO of Strategic Impact AdvisorsWhat does it take to build an equitable and inclusive digital world? Not a new question for NetHope or its members but one that continues to be front and center as digital transformation continues to shift economic activity to digital platforms. Individuals … Continued

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Crossing the finish line to digital financial inclusion

By Shelley Spencer, CEO of Strategic Impact Advisors. Hear Shelley at this year’s NetHope Virtual Global Summit.Digital technology has changed the path to the global goal of universal financial inclusion. Mobile phones are now mobile wallets used to store funds, pay school fees, access financing to buy a solar system and receive payments. Small shops … Continued

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La tecnología educativa durante COVID-19: Aspectos destacados de la primera reunión virtual del Capítulo de América Latina

This was the first completely virtual meeting for a NetHope Chapter. It allowed more participants and a vibrant opportunity for sharing. (An English-language version of this post follows below the original.) por Claudia Garcia, ITC Manager, Norwegian Refugee Council La primera reunión virtual del capítulo latinoamericano de NetHope fue un éxito rotundo, con un número … Continued

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FINCA Tanzania uses digital technology to expand financial literacy

Above:  Finance is undergoing a digital transformation. This transformation is most palpable in emerging markets like Tanzania, where digital channels are providing many people with access to financial services for the first time. FINCA was one of 17 recipients of the 2017 NetHope Device Challenge which offered $5.5 million in funding thanks to a grant … Continued

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Digital Transformation that Delivers: NetHope’s Eight Year Journey on the Path to Digital Financial Inclusion

By Lauren Woodman, CEO, NetHopeDigital transformation, whether for organizations or across a sector, is hard work. It requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to be in a perpetual mode of evaluation and learning. In the area of financial services, digital transformation is making huge gains at record speed.  As the CEO of NetHope, … Continued

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Shifting the paradigm: Kiva strengthens ties between lenders and refugees

While refugees seek economic opportunities, most financial institutions, whether local microfinancing organizations or traditional banks, are unwilling to serve refugees because they are perceived as too risky. But as refugees experience protracted periods of displacement—sometimes upwards of 20 years—the real need for economic stability and even growth becomes more pressing.Since 2016, Kiva has worked to overcome … Continued

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Digital Financial Services and India’s Emerging Middle Class

By Shweta Shetty, Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP, and Nicholas Lesher, Payment InnovationsIn the digital financial services (DFS) sector, there is a recurring story told about India. It goes something like this: "There’s a huge market, with immense potential. India’s government is engaged, proactive, and willing to take bold steps. There is lots of activity, … Continued

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