SHG Development

Empowering SHG groups in West Bengal for sustainable development and growth.

Empowerment Program Initiative
Community Engagement Projects
Skill Training Workshops
Capacity Building Activities

Our Family

Fair Practices

1. CLIENT AWARENESS – Through exclusive group meetings, clients are thoroughly informed about the full range of products and services available, with all terms and conditions articulated in an easily comprehensible manner. Prior to any loan disbursement, explicit consent is obtained from clients, who are also apprised of the current interest rates, processing fees, and insurance charges in accordance with established guidelines.

2. WORKSHOP / SEMINAR – Regular workshops with clients are conducted to gather valuable feedback and suggestions, fostering a deeper connection and trust between the clients and the organization.

3. FINANCIAL LITERACY TRAINING – These group meetings also serve as a platform for enhancing financial literacy. Clients gain insights into KYC procedures and, when necessary, are taught local alphabets and numerals to ensure they can sign documents and understand their loan amounts, thereby minimizing the risk of fraud. Additionally, banking habits are cultivated as funds are exclusively disbursed through banks, while clients receive education on family planning, hygiene, and the importance of vaccinating their children.

1. AWO is dedicated to fostering enduring and trustworthy relationships with clients by ensuring that employees engage with them in a respectful manner, articulating all matters in clear and accessible language.

2. It is imperative for AWO staff to communicate with clients and their families in a way that honors their religious beliefs and preserves their dignity.

3. Upholding ethical standards and adhering to organizational regulations is crucial during field operations.

4. During loan installment collections, no aggressive tactics, such as abusive language or intimidation, will be tolerated.

5. AWO employees will refrain from contacting clients during inappropriate times, such as during periods of mourning or illness, and will duly acknowledge each installment payment with proper documentation in the passbook.

6. Employees will consistently avoid actions that could lead to uncomfortable situations in the workplace, ensuring that loan passbooks are updated with the latest installment records by the field officer.

7. Each loan application is co-signed by individuals who commit to ensuring the smooth repayment of installments, with AWO making certain that these individuals understand their responsibilities.

8. No AWO employee will visit clients' homes at night for repayment collections.

Elegant Engagement and Refined Collection Methodology

  1. Income generating loans represent a refined financial instrument crafted to nurture small business initiatives and income-producing endeavors. Distinct from conventional loans that often hinge on collateral or robust credit histories, these loans cater specifically to micro-entrepreneurs who find themselves outside the realm of traditional banking.

  2. By furnishing essential capital, these loans enable aspiring business owners to launch or expand their enterprises, fostering financial independence and economic vitality. Athena epitomizes accessibility, extending income generating loans to those traditionally excluded from banking services, particularly empowering women and rural entrepreneurs to realize their potential and stimulate local economies.

  3. The application process is streamlined and intuitive, designed to accommodate individuals with varying levels of financial literacy, thus instilling confidence in potential borrowers. Furthermore, the loans offer remarkable flexibility, applicable across diverse sectors such as agriculture, trade, and small-scale manufacturing, allowing borrowers to tailor amounts and repayment terms to their unique business strategies.

  4. Beyond mere financing, Athena enriches its clients with vital financial education and training, ensuring they possess the acumen to thrive. With a strong commitment to uplifting women entrepreneurs, Athena champions gender equality and fosters the growth of marginalized communities through its empowering initiatives.