Chicago Microfinance Conference

The Zell Center Chicago Microfinance Conference is a collaborative effort among leading graduate business and policy institutions that brings together practitioners, academics and emerging industry leaders to advance the strategic debate of the future of microfinance.

Independent – The conference is independent and aims to provide a forum to discuss the key issues affecting the microfinance industry and allow for free and honest discourse of those issues.

Cutting Edge – The conference is not designed to introduce people to microfinance; rather, it aims to advance the strategic debate and help participants uncover new approaches to microfinance.

Track Record – The 9th Annual Zell Center Chicago Microfinance Conference is expected to build upon our past successes and set a new standard for dialogue within the industry. In the past, participating speakers included Michael Schlein, David Roodman, Bob Annibale, Paul Christensen, Martin Holtmann, Tim Ogden, Vikram Akula, Michael Chu, Elizabeth Littlefield, Elizabeth Funk, Richard Weingarten, Larry Reed, Mary Houghton and Alex Counts. The conference has attracted over 300 people each year. This year's event will include focused panel discussions and a networking reception.

Variety of Stakeholders – The conference draws individuals from microfinance institutions, corporate banks, governments, NGOs and academia to discuss the key issues facing the microfinance industry.

Midwest-based and Affordable – The conference is uniquely based in the Midwest and purposely kept very affordable to ensure participation from stakeholders throughout the value network.