In the past few years, the model of microfinance as a technique for empowering poor entrepreneurs in developing countries has received mainstream attention. Many in the United States are intrigued with the success of microfinance and wonder "Why can't we do that here?"

Those familiar with entrepreneurs and fundraising realize that the line between personal and business finance may not always be clear. The bootstrap model, for example, generally involves some level of personal financial investment in a fledgling organization.

This dynamic is perhaps especially difficult for low income entrepreneurs. For this reason, the panel will include speakers not only from local organizations that make business loans in low income communities, but also an expert that studies the "pay day loan" industry.

This panel is presented by the Austin Microfinance Network and Net Impact Austin.

Confirmed panel speakers as of Feb 16:

Don Baylor
Sr. Policy Analyst, Economic Opportunity
Center for Public Policy Priorities

Claudia Conner,
Women Business Center Director
Big Austin

Margo Weisz, Executive Director
PeopleFund

Moderated by Kala Philo
Community Engagement Lead
Austin Microfinance Network

This is a free event. Please click here to sign up to attend.

Location