Microfinance institutions (MFIs) in Pakistan play a vital role in supporting low-income individuals, small entrepreneurs, and rural communities. These organizations provide small loans, savings accounts, and other financial services to those who cannot access traditional banking. Over the years, Pakistan’s microfinance sector has grown rapidly, helping millions achieve financial independence.
Below are the top 10 microfinance institutions in Pakistan known for their performance, customer support, and contribution to financial inclusion.
1. Khushhali Microfinance Bank Limited
Khushhali Microfinance Bank is Pakistan’s first and largest microfinance bank. Established in 2000, it operates across both rural and urban areas. The bank provides microloans for agriculture, livestock, small businesses, and personal needs. Its strong digital banking system and financial literacy programs make it a leader in the industry.
Head Office: Islamabad
Average Loan Size: PKR 50,000 – PKR 500,000
Key Services: Microloans, savings, insurance, mobile banking
2. U Microfinance Bank (U Bank)
Owned by PTCL, U Bank has grown significantly over the years with a focus on branchless and digital banking. It offers easy microloans for small businesses, farmers, and salaried individuals. The bank’s U Paisa mobile app allows convenient access to financial services even in remote areas.
Head Office: Islamabad
Average Loan Size: PKR 30,000 – PKR 300,000
Key Services: Microloans, remittances, digital accounts, savings
3. Mobilink Microfinance Bank
Mobilink Microfinance Bank combines the power of technology with financial inclusion. As part of VEON Group, it provides mobile-based financial services through JazzCash, Pakistan’s leading digital wallet. The bank supports small entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals through affordable loan options.
Head Office: Islamabad
Average Loan Size: PKR 20,000 – PKR 400,000
Key Services: JazzCash mobile accounts, loans, insurance, savings
4. FINCA Microfinance Bank
FINCA is an international microfinance network that operates successfully in Pakistan. It focuses on empowering small business owners, women entrepreneurs, and farmers. FINCA’s SimSim digital wallet is a convenient platform for payments, transfers, and savings.
Head Office: Lahore
Average Loan Size: PKR 25,000 – PKR 500,000
Key Services: Business loans, digital banking, micro-insurance
5. NRSP Microfinance Bank
The NRSP Microfinance Bank is linked with the National Rural Support Programme. It mainly works in rural Pakistan, helping farmers and low-income households. The bank provides affordable loans for agriculture, livestock, housing, and education.
Head Office: Bahawalpur
Average Loan Size: PKR 15,000 – PKR 300,000
Key Services: Agricultural loans, savings, micro-insurance, remittances
6. First MicroFinance Bank Limited (FMFB)
FMFB is part of the Aga Khan Development Network and has a strong reputation for community development. It provides financial services to underprivileged communities, particularly in remote and mountainous regions.
Head Office: Karachi
Average Loan Size: PKR 20,000 – PKR 350,000
Key Services: Small business loans, home improvement loans, deposits
7. Apna Microfinance Bank
Apna Bank focuses on serving small traders, women entrepreneurs, and farmers. It operates across Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with a growing customer base. The bank offers personal, business, and group loans to promote economic empowerment.
Head Office: Karachi
Average Loan Size: PKR 25,000 – PKR 400,000
Key Services: Business loans, savings, remittances, insurance
8. Kashf Foundation
Kashf Foundation is one of Pakistan’s most well-known non-profit microfinance institutions. It focuses on empowering women by providing financial literacy and entrepreneurship support. Kashf has helped thousands of women start and grow their businesses.
Head Office: Lahore
Average Loan Size: PKR 20,000 – PKR 150,000
Key Services: Women’s loans, business training, micro-insurance
9. Akhuwat Foundation
Akhuwat operates on an interest-free model, following Islamic microfinance principles. It provides Qarz-e-Hasna (benevolent loans) to deserving individuals across Pakistan. Its unique community-based system promotes social welfare and financial independence without charging interest.
Head Office: Lahore
Average Loan Size: PKR 10,000 – PKR 200,000
Key Services: Interest-free loans, education support, housing assistance
10. Pak Oman Microfinance Bank
Pak Oman Microfinance Bank offers a range of financial products for small businesses and low-income families. It is backed by strong institutional investors and focuses on both rural and urban clients.
Head Office: Karachi
Average Loan Size: PKR 30,000 – PKR 400,000
Key Services: SME financing, savings, digital banking
Why Microfinance Matters in Pakistan
Microfinance plays a vital role in reducing poverty and promoting entrepreneurship. By offering small, affordable loans, these institutions help people:
Start or expand small businesses
Improve agricultural productivity
Support education and healthcare
Build savings habits and financial stability
Microfinance also encourages women’s participation in the economy and contributes to the country’s overall development.
Final Thoughts
The top 10 microfinance institutions in Pakistan are doing much more than lending money—they are empowering people to build better futures. From Khushhali Bank’s vast network to Akhuwat’s interest-free model, each organization contributes uniquely to financial inclusion.
If you’re looking for small-scale financing or want to start a new business, these institutions can provide the right support to help you grow and become financially independent.
