Fund Description
Bellwether Fund, a US$20 million fund launched in 2005, was designed as the first onshore Indian microfinance-focused venture fund, catering to the equity and quasi-equity needs of MFIs projecting microfinance into poorly served areas across India.
Fund Mission
To create social and financial value for investors and micro-entrepreneurs by combining strong micro finance operating and financial sector experience with a rigorous but creative investment approach. Bellwether shall work with a wide range of micro finance organisations, including young and promising programmes, which focus on both structural poverty alleviation and financial sustainability. Through working with these micro finance organisations Bellwether will contribute to an increased access to financial services of underserved groups across India irrespective of creed, caste or gender.
Vintage Year
2005
Geographic and Industry Investment Targets
Target Industry
Financial & insurance activities
Target Industries Description
Microfinance and adjacent sectors in Financial Inclusion space
Investment Region(s)
Asia
Countries of Investment
India
Geographic Target Description
None provided
Impact Investment Targets
Impact Targets
Socially beneficial prod/serv
Impact Targets Description
We only invest in companies that are engaged in bringing about inclusion of the poor, under-served and/ or disenfranchised into the formal financial system.
Socially Beneficial Products & Services
Access to basic services | Economic &/or empowerment opportunities | Capital Flow (microfinance, equity, etc)
Environmentally Beneficial Products & Services
N/A