Community Finance and Savings Systems: Innovative Tools for Urban Housing Solutions
In the Spring 2025 issue of Housing Finance International, authors Bénédicte Hinschberger and Bea Varnai delve into the transformative power of community finance and savings systems in addressing the housing needs of the urban poor.
Community-led financial models such as savings groups and housing cooperatives are highlighted as effective mechanisms for resource mobilization and collective investment. These models support inclusive, equitable housing improvements in marginalized communities.
The article features case studies from various urban contexts, illustrating how local groups have used community finance to initiate housing upgrades and developments. It also examines how policies and partnerships can scale these grassroots initiatives to address broader urban housing challenges.
Housing Finance International is published quarterly by the International Union for Housing Finance (IUHF).
You can read this article on urbaMonde’s website.