Frequently Asked Questions

Program & Audience

Who is the Boulder Microfinance Training (MFT) designed for?
The MFT is designed for senior and mid-senior professionals working in inclusive finance. Typical participants include executives, program directors, heads of risk, digital transformation leaders, product managers, rural and agricultural finance specialists, policymakers, and professionals from support organizations.

Is this program relevant only for traditional microfinance institutions (MFIs)?
No. While MFIs remain a core audience, the MFT increasingly serves professionals from banks, fintechs, regulators, development agencies, and other organizations working in financial inclusion. The program reflects the evolving ecosystem while remaining grounded in inclusive finance practice.

Is this program academic or practical?
The MFT is practice-oriented. Courses and discussions are based on real institutional challenges, field cases, and applied tools. Faculty draw on direct professional experience, and participants are encouraged to connect learning to decisions they face in their organizations.

Program Format & Learning Experience

How intensive is the two-week program?
The MFT is a full-time, immersive program over two weeks. Each day combines morning Master Classes with elective courses, peer discussions, and informal exchanges. Participants should expect focused days with opportunities for reflection and interaction outside the classroom.

How are courses structured?
Participants select four major electives and four minor electives from a curated set of courses. This allows participants to tailor the program to their professional focus while engaging with a broad range of perspectives.

What is the Master Class?
Master Classes bring the full cohort together each morning. These sessions are led by senior faculty and address cross-cutting themes such as leadership, strategic adaptation, client focus, risk, digital transformation, and change management.

Are there assignments or group work?
Some courses include light individual or group exercises designed to deepen understanding. These are intended to be practical and manageable within the program schedule.

Languages, Location & Logistics

In which languages is the program offered?
The MFT is conducted in three parallel languages: English, French, and Spanish. Participants select their preferred language track when registering.  Courses are generally offered only in one of the language tracks, although some electives are offered with translation. Bilingual participants have the option to enroll in courses taught in their second language.

Is translation provided between languages?
Mostly, courses are delivered in one language. The plenary sessions bring all participants together across language groups, with interpretation.

Where does the program take place?
The MFT is held at the International Training Centre of the International Labour Organization (ITC/ILO) in Turin, Italy.

Do participants stay on campus?
Most participants stay on campus at the ITC/ILO, which facilitates informal exchange, shared meals, and networking. Accommodation arrangements are communicated separately during registration.

Travel & Visa

Do I need a visa to attend the program in Italy?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Participants are responsible for securing any required visas.

Does Boulder provide visa support documentation?
Yes. Upon registration, Boulder provides official invitation and confirmation letters to support visa applications.

How early should I begin the visa process?
Participants are strongly encouraged to begin visa preparations as early as possible, ideally several months before the program’s start date.

Registration, Fees & Policies

How do I register or express interest?
You can register interest through the form on this page. The Boulder team will follow up with next steps, program details, and registration instructions.

What is included in the program fee?
The fee covers tuition, course materials, and participation in all academic and networking activities. Travel, accommodation, and meals are typically not included unless specified.

Can institutions send multiple participants?
Yes. Many organizations send multiple participants. Institutional invoicing and administrative coordination are supported.

Is invoicing available for organizations?
Yes. Boulder can issue invoices and support organizational payment processes.

What is the cancellation or transfer policy?
Details on cancellations, transfers, and refunds are provided during registration. Policies are designed to be clear and transparent.

Certificates & Recognition

Do participants receive a certificate?
Participants who complete the program receive a certificate of completion from the ITC/ILO jointly with the Boulder Institute of Microfinance.

Is the program accredited?
The MFT is a professional training program delivered by a U.S.-based non-profit institution. It is not a degree program but is widely recognized within the financial inclusion sector.

Still Have Questions?

If you have specific questions about your participation, institutional enrollment, or logistics, please contact the Boulder team using the contact information provided on this page.