EP 81: The 7 Principles Behind IBAM’s Loan Fund Model, Series 1

Episode notes

▶️ Watch the full video here: Join the mission: In this episode, IBAM Founder Steve Adams walks listeners through the core principles behind IBAM’s loan fund model - a system shaped by more than four decades of banking, lending, and international microcredit experience. This conversation is part of a four-video training series created to help IBAM and EGRO partners better manage their loan funds, avoid common mistakes, and steward capital with long-term sustainability in mind. Steve explains why IBAM exists to come alongside local leaders, train them in a proven process, and then empower them to run that process independently - while IBAM continues to raise donor funds and provide long-term consultation. At the heart of this episode are seven practical principles that guide how IBAM partners make loans. Steve explains why making many small loans spreads risk, why service-based businesses consistently outperform product-based ones, and why lending should only be done with people of demonstrated godly character. He also outlines why shorter repayment periods reduce risk, why monthly financial reporting is required, and why early intervention is critical when problems arise.

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