Observatory of Small and Medium Sized Enterprises – Simon Bolivar Andean University, Ecuador
The SME Observatory is an initiative carried out at the Faculty of Management within the Simon Bolivar Andean University in Ecuador. The Observatory’s principal objective is to generate and analyze information related to the past, present, and future prospects and evolution of the productive sector, with an emphasis on small and medium sized enterprises. (In Spanish).
Two ECLAC studies analyze financial inclusion in Uruguay
Two Studies published by the ECLAC Office in Montevideo study the economic situation of Uruguayan households in terms of financial inclusion. (In Spanish).
The financial system in Latin America and the Caribbean: A characterization
In December 2013, ECLAC published a study on the financial system in Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasizing the importance of financial inclusion for the region. (In Spanish).
The future of development banks – A Columbia University, BNDES and CAF Project
Supported by Brazil’s National Economic and Social Development Bank (BNDES) and the Development Bank of Latin America (CAF), Columbia University carried out a two-year Initiative for Policy Dialog (IPD) research project on national development banks.
In the aftermath of the Global Financial Crisis (2007-09) there has been a renewed interest in the role of national development banks in filling the funding gaps left by private financial institutions, especially during cyclical downturns. Development banks play a key role in financial inclusion, help governments direct funds towards underfunded sectors and projects, and increase diversify in the financial system structure. (Overview of the project and reference materials).
Financial inclusion in the context of financing for sustainable development
1. United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Financing for Development Office (DESA/FFD), agenda on Inclusive Finance
2. General Assembly documents on financial inclusion.
3. Inclusive finance within the context of financing for sustainable development is not a new agenda. There exists a UN Task Team Working Group on Sustainable Development Financing, and in 201 it has published four chapters that aim to inform the ongoing deliberations on the post-2015 development agenda. The role of financial inclusion of SMEs within the context of sustainable development financing is further elaborated in Chapter 3 of the series.
Tips and Guides for SMEs
FAO Manual "How to export? A practical guide for SMEs and family farms" (In Spanish)
5 Tips for SMEs. (In Spanish).