Banking on Africa

You may ask... Why Build Banks? Why is this important? Why is this Needed?

Imagine what the world would be without banks—no savings, no credit, no money transfers, no ATMs, no safe place to keep your money. That is the reality for some three billion people who live every day without the financial services we take for granted. This is why Opportunity focuses its time on building banks in some of the poorest regions of the world. 

Opportunity has established itself as a global leader in building scalable, sustainable and accessible banks throughout the developing world. Since 2001, Opportunity has established itself as a global leader in building scalable, sustainable and accessible banks throughout the developing world. Today, Opportunity owns 15 formal financial institutions including seven banks. Behind this ambitious endeavor is our team of international finance experts, recruited for their depth of knowledge and their passion for our mission.

Opportunity banks, whether mobile, satellite kiosk or full service branch, provide loans,savings and insurance products tailored to the specific needs of each region. For those living in poverty, Opportunity’s economical and efficient branches reach into markets where there is little or no other banking available.

Opportunity banks offer the professionalism and security of a commercial bank, but also focus on serving those living in poverty with customized products and services, and superior customer care. Permanent financial institutions open the door of opportunity for clients who were previously excluded, granting them access to the services they need to achieve their goals and work their way out of poverty.

Opportunity International has a bold vision to bring life changing financial services to five million impoverished people in sub-Saharan Africa. We are working toward the day when all Africans can safely deposit their savings, access capital to grow their businesses and purchase affordable insurance to protect their assets—with all these services readily available in their own communities.