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Topic Snapshot: Microenterprise

Reports

• Introduction to Starting and Sustaining a Microenterprise Development Program (2003) -- Available formats: pdf
  This is a training module developed by AEO that gives the history of the microdevelopment movement.
• Capitalizing Ability (2009) -- Available formats: rtf
  Published in the World Institute on Disability's Equity newsletter, December 2008, this looks at the promise of the microenterprise field for people with disabilities. It compares the micro approach with that of vocational rehabilitation.
• Opening Opportunities, Building Ownership: Fulfilling the Promise of Microenterprise in the United States (2009) -- Available formats: pdf
  A report from the FIELD program of the Aspen Institute, this is a 20 year look at the accomplishments of Microenterprise programs. It identifies challenges and makes recommendations to grow the field.

Toolkits

• Underwriting/Evaluation Guidelines for Microenterprise and Small Business Loans (2007) -- Available formats: rtf
  This document provides guidance for loan programs underwriting telework loans for self employment. Underwriting looks at financial and credit data, the personnel of the business, collateral, and repayment ability.
• Entrepreneurial Self-Assessment Survey (unknown) -- Available formats: rtf
  Entrepreneurial Self-Assessment Survey was produced by the Women’s Initiative for Self-Employment. This tool helps would-be entrepreneurs gauge how well self-employment may work for them.

Profile

• Introduction to Microenterprise (2009) -- Available formats: ppt rtf
  This presentation defines microdevelopment, describes what a typical MDO might be like, the client demographics and the amounts of the loans. It discussed who provides microenterprise development services and offers some funding sources and data on success.

Organizational Resources

• MicroMentor.org (2010) -- Available formats: external
  MicroMentor.org - A resource that connects microentrepreneurs with mentors with experience appropriate to their business. Microenterprise development organizations can become an affiliate, and receive additional services such as outcome tracking.
• Federal Funding Sources for Microenterprise Development (2009) -- Available formats: pdf
  This lists common funding sources, primarily federal programs that provide funding to microlenders.

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