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Asset Building Financial Inclusion Working Paper

Integrating Savings Into Microenterprise Programs for the Poor: Do Institutions Matter?

By CSD • July 1, 2004October 27, 2021

Numerous theoretical frameworks have been used to explain factors that influence outcomes of poor families engaged in self-employment. Theories related to human capital, social capital, and financial assets have guided most studies. Using data from fourteen institutions promoting self-employment among the poor, and drawing on the institutional theory, this study finds that theories related to individual influences do not adequately explain all the phenomenon.Controlling for a wide range of individual characteristics, there is a statistically significant association between institutional influences and participants’ outcomes. Policy makers should consider a range of institutional characteristics when designing policies and programs aimed at promoting self-employment among poor families.

Project: American Dream Policy Demonstration (ADD)

Citation

Ssewamala, F. M., & Sherraden, M. (2004). Integrating savings into microenterprise programs for the poor: Do institutions matter? (CSD Working Paper No. 04-05). St. Louis, MO: Washington University, Center for Social Development.

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2004American Dream Policy Demonstration (ADD)Fred SsewamalaIndividual Development Account (IDA)Michael Sherradenmicroenterprise

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