collaboration

Part I: Co-operative In The Spotlight In honour of the International Year of Cooperatives: Crédal

collaboration

Part I: Co-operative In The Spotlight In honour of the International Year of Cooperatives: Crédal

This year marks the United Nations’ International Year of Cooperatives. An excellent opportunity to shine a light on some Belgian cooperatives that, like us, are working toward a better world.

One such cooperative is Crédal, a pioneer in ethical finance that has been active in Wallonia and Brussels for 40 years.

Shared values

Two cooperatives, one common goal: opening doors where access to finance is limited — a principle better known as financial inclusion.

Indeed, Alterfin and Crédal demonstrate that inclusive finance is a powerful tool, both in Belgium and abroad.

We enable our clients — or partners, in Alterfin’s case — to realise their projects, fostering their development and personal well-being, wherever they are.

Why is our work so important?

First, because it puts people at the centre of everything.

At Crédal, this means ethical and sustainable investments, solidarity-based loans, and expert advice.

Crédal’s microcredit supports, among others, people in professional transition, vulnerable entrepreneurs, or migrants who want to launch a business and become more self-reliant.

Second — and most importantly — because our actions complement each other.

By creating economic opportunities where they are most needed, Crédal and Alterfin empower the communities they work with. This leads to a more equitable economy and, ultimately, to a more caring society and a brighter future for all.

So the question isn’t whether to invest here or elsewhere — but to act where the needs are greatest.

Employée de Bailyk Finance, le partenaire kirghize d'Alterfin, en discussion avec une cliente
Bailyk Finance, Alterfin’s microfinance partner in Kyrgyzstan since 2017

Our beneficiaries? The best proof of our impact

Crédal

Richard, 51
Crédal client (personal microcredit)

« After leaving Burundi, I lived alone in a small studio. It was too small for my wife and our four children. Thanks to a Crédal microcredit, I was able to rent a larger flat and buy furniture. Now each of us has our own room, and we can live together in good conditions. » 
Alterfin

Shares Dinara, 45
Bailyk Finance client (microfinance institution in Kyrgyzstan and Alterfin partner since 2016)

« Thanks to Bailyk, I was able to invest in my business. I also bought a house, supported my children, and helped them pursue higher education. It’s been a tremendous help. »

The impact is real — and within reach!

Thanks to you, to the members of Crédal, and to our shared commitment, we are helping to build a fairer, more sustainable, and more inclusive world.

In Belgium and beyond.

#IYC2025

Interested in becoming a Crédal member? Find out more here.

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