IsDB launches five-volume toolkits to strengthen Islamic microfinance

The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) and the IsDB Global Practice & Partnership (GPP) Directorate have officially launched a five-volume series of Islamic Microfinance Toolkits, aimed at enhancing inclusive financial ecosystems across IsDB member countries. The series provides a comprehensive roadmap for establishing, operating, monitoring, and regulating Islamic microfinance institutions.
Developed through extensive research, field experience, inter-departmental collaboration, and stakeholder consultations, the revamped toolkits are designed to assist policymakers, regulators, and practitioners in leveraging Islamic microfinance to combat poverty, foster entrepreneurship, and promote sustainable development.
Toolkit series designed to guide stakeholders across the microfinance ecosystem
Dr. Sami Al-Suwailem, Director General of IsDBI, emphasized the value of Islamic microfinance: “Islamic microfinance, grounded in principles of fairness and risk-sharing, is a vital tool to enable the poor to participate in economic activity with dignity and purpose. These toolkits provide concrete steps for stakeholders to build inclusive financial systems that reflect both the spirit and substance of Islamic finance.”
Dr. Issa Faye, Director General of GPP, added, “This joint initiative reflects our collective commitment to support member countries in strengthening their financial inclusion strategies. By providing technical guidance and practical models, we aim to empower institutions to design scalable, context-sensitive Islamic microfinance solutions.”
Overview of the five Islamic Microfinance Toolkits
-
Book 1 – Concepts, Business Models & Products: Introduces Islamic microfinance principles, business models, and product structures.
-
Book 2 – Establishing a Shari’ah-Compliant Entity: Offers guidance on strategic planning, governance, financial feasibility, and Shari’ah compliance.
-
Book 3 – Integrating Islamic Finance into Agricultural Value Chains: Focuses on financing agricultural value chains using Islamic financial instruments and case studies.
-
Book 4 – Monitoring and Evaluation Performance and Outcomes: Provides frameworks and indicators for financial, social, and Shari’ah performance.
-
Book 5 – Regulations and Supervisory Guidelines: Presents a model regulatory framework covering governance, licensing, risk management, and Shari’ah oversight.
The toolkits are now available for download on the IsDB Institute’s website here.