CALL FOR PROPOSALS  

INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE VISIT

As part of the implementation of its 2026 action plan, and its actions to promote the Ecological and Social Transition (EST) within Microfinance Institutions (MFIs), MAIN is launching a call for proposals to finance an international exchange visit in Africa to the benefit of its members.

This call aims to support MFIs wishing to strengthen their capacities, share experiences and draw inspiration from good practices related to the EST, particularly in the areas of green finance, social inclusion, ESG risk management, climate adaptation or responsible innovations.

I. Eligibility Criteria and Conditions

Applicant MFIs must meet the following requirements:

• The exchange visit must take place in Africa, within a Microfinance Institution or a relevant organization committed to the Ecological and Social Transition.
• The duration of the visit must not exceed 7 days, including travel days.
• The visit must be completed no later than July 31, 2026.
• The applicant institution must be up-to-date with its annual contributions with MAIN.
• Being an active member of the association.
• Submit a complete application, including Terms of Reference (ToR) that meet the above requirements
• Produce and submit a mission report to MAIN within a maximum of 15 days after the end of the visit.

II. Content of the Terms of Reference (ToR)

The proposed visits must focus on a theme related to the ecological and social transition and include the following elements:

• The identified EST issue (environmental, social, climate, ESG, sustainable finance, etc.) ;
• The approaches, initiatives or solutions already implemented by the institution to address this identified issue;
• The justification for the need for the exchange visit with regard to the EST issues;
• The objectives and expectations regarding the exchange visit;
• The name of the selected host institution;
• The detailed budget for the visit;
• The list of participants from the applicant institution (maximum 5 people, with names and positions);
• The period scheduled for the visit.

III. Application File

The application file must include:

• The Terms of Reference (ToR) for the exchange visit (in accordance with point II)
• The institution's most recent activities report
• The Factsheet for the last three years (2023-2025)

IV. Submission Procedures

1. Combine all application documents into a single compressed (ZIP) file.
2. Submit your application by sending the ZIP file to the following addresses: 

formations@mainnetwork.org with in copy secretariat@mainnetwork.org 

V. Indicative timetable