WAM international

Project:    Market Assessment for Rural Lending and Front-End Technology

Start:        On or about November 20, 2009

End:    December 20, 2009

Objectives

To assess the constraints to rural microfinance in Haiti and identify strategies for FINCA to significantly scale up its operations in this target market.  The strategy should encompass the full range of issues that are hindering FINCA’s growth in rural areas, such as market constraints, lack of branch infrastructure, communications, transportation and public services, suitability of loan products, financial viability, organization and capacity of staff.  The assessment and strategy should be clearly situated in the local context, with specific reference to the evolution of rural finance, promising developments, existing and upcoming donor activities, and the experience of both failed and successful organizations.  In addition, it should identify opportunities arising from the application of new technologies (PDAs, POS, etc.) to lower the costs of delivering services in remote communities while expanding the range of services offered.

Administration:

The consultant, in implementing this Scope of Work, will work closely with and report directly to Marianne Benet at FINCA International, Inc.

The consultant, upon completion of the assignment, will submit to FINCA an invoice for fees.

Specific Tasks:

1. Desk Research.  The consultant will compile and review available data on rural microfinance in Haiti, including published studies, sector reviews, development agency strategies, etc.   In addition, the desk research will include a review of FINCA Haiti’s financial and operational performance, through management and project reports, telephone interviews with key staff and managers, etc.  During the desk research phase, the consultant will prepare a detailed outline of the proposed final deliverable, to be approved by FINCA.
2. Field Research.  The consultant will make a short trip to Haiti to gather primary data through interviews with FINCA staff, clients, rural service providers and donors, among others.  The field research will be conducted on a compressed schedule and will require careful advance planning in coordination with FINCA staff in order to gain maximum benefit.
3. Recommendations.  The consultant will prepare a report with his or her findings, with detailed annexes as needed to support the conclusions, following the outline as approved by FINCA.  As described in “Objectives,” above, the report will cover (a) market conditions, (b) regulation, public services and infrastructure, (c) branching and service delivery, (d) product offerings, (e) action plan and estimated budget, (f) technology program, (g) potential links to donor or other relevant initiatives.

Profile:

The ideal candidate or firm will have a strong background in rural finance, with special consideration given to candidates with a background in Haiti or in similar markets.  Spoken French is required, along with the ability to compile and analyze data on a compressed timeline.  The consultant will be able to prepare budget and financial projections.  Most importantly, he or she will have a proven capacity to lead organizations through strategic assessment and advise on product and service delivery strategies for rural markets. 

To apply please submit cover letter, CV, daily rate, and proposed level of effort (number of days) to Scott Graham at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it and Christy Hannum at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .