THE MIF IN HAITI

Since 1995, the MIF has had a continued and highly-active presence in Haiti, helping improve access to finance, markets, and capabilities for micro, small and medium enterprises and low income populations. Along the way, we have developed local knowledge and strong relationships with experienced local partners from civil society, corporations, and government.

This on-the-ground knowledge has been fundamental to fostering investment in Haiti, as donors have been able to rely on the MIF’s proven record to efficiently channel funding to local partners in the country.

Immediately following the earthquake in January 2010, the MIF put into place an emergency spending program (HESAR), investing US$3 million in grants to 16 of the MIF local partners who were severely affected by the earthquake. The purpose of the emergency program was to enable these local partners to resume operations and restart business services to their 338,000 clients and beneficiaries. Within eight months, all local partners had succeeded in resuming economic activity due to the HESAR Program.

The MIF quadrupled the rate of approval of new projects in Haiti in 2010 and 2011, demonstrating a long-term commitment to private sector development in the country. Furthermore, the rate of disbursement to local partners reached a record-breaking high, at US$5 million in 2011 alone. As Haiti moves forward, the MIF remains steadfast in its commitment to the Haitian people, working with our partners to improve conditions on the ground and allocate resources for those who need them the most.