Danish Forum of Microfinance

Danish Forum of Microfinance is a Danish learning network rooted in democratic ownership and community values. As a learning network, we measure success in creating new links and learning towards the positive change we help create—locally and globally.

DFM was founded to foster learning about savings groups and cooperatives in the Global South, yet today DFM also works with churches, other civil society organisations and socio-economic enterprises to support financial inclusion. In 2025, we have a learning process on savings groups and climate change adaptation in East Africa, supported by Danida, and we are looking into financial inclusion for migrants in Denmark in collaboration with Finklusiv, which is also an EMN member.

FasterOikos

FasterOikos is a Danish cooperative bank rooted in democratic ownership and community values. As a customer-owned institution, we measure success not only by financial performance but by the positive change we help create—locally and globally. Our mission aligns closely with EMN’s vision of inclusive finance as a tool for empowerment and social cohesion. Faster Oikos has a heart for creating social change for the poorest based on professional banking.

Loans to projects in three different countries are given, focusing on local development and empowerment. One example to mention is the partnership with Mwangaza Light in Kenya, training pastors and local change agents in green energy and sustainability. Solar products replace harmful kerosene lamps in remote communities, improving living conditions and creating new income opportunities.