LSESU Microfinance Society

Student Microfinance & Development Initiative (SMDI)

“The Student Microfinance & Development Initiative (SMDI) is an international student organisation. It provides academic research on microfinance and innovative development solutions and related services to MFIs, social enterprises and other institutions. It aims to add value to the work of these entities by giving students the chance to use their skills and commitment to the cause.” The LSE SU Microfinance Society is a partner of SMDI at LSE working with it on different projects. Please access www.smdi.org.uk for more information about the organisation.

Learn more about SMDI

Although microfinance is a rapidly growing industry, there is still much to be done. Many Microfinance Institutions and Social Enterprises still lack funding as well as sufficient staff to research the impact of their current work and evaluate opportunities for expansion. At the same time, we have recognized a critical need for awareness of microfinance at LSE and in London, as well for meaningful opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in microfinance. Thus, the LSE SU Microfinance Society helps SMDI to address these needs by connecting students to MFIs to provide them with research assistance and executive support.

If you are an MFI and are interested in our lending or research services, please contact us at info@smdi.org.uk

We want to get as many students involved in SMDI as possible because we believe that our organization can make a huge impact. Participating in SMDI will be a great opportunity for you to learn more about microfinance first-hand and to be part of a new, cutting-edge, entirely student-run organization! If you are interested in supporting SMDI in another way, please go to www.smdi.org.uk.

2nd place in Pitch It!

Earlier in 2009, we won 2nd place in the Pitch It! Business Plan competition at LSE, hosted by the LSESU Entrepreneurs Society and the LSE Careers Service. Check out some photos of our presentation! Click on the thumbnails to see a larger version.

If you have a general question, please email us at info (AT) smdi.org.uk.