Oikocredit: Investing differently, changing lives

I felt truly honored to be invited as a featured panelist during Oikocredit International’s 50th-anniversary celebration last Nov. 4, held at the stunning Van Nelle Fabriek in Rotterdam.

- JAIME ARISTOTLE B. ALIP, PHD

The energy was palpable the moment I walked in — more than 500 participants from across the world gathered not just to commemorate a milestone, but to reaffirm a shared belief: that finance can and should be a force for good.

The program opened with warm and thoughtful remarks from Mirjam ’t Lam, Oikocredit’s managing director and CEO. Her message set the tone for the day: a reminder that Oikocredit’s mission — rooted in justice, peace, and solidarity — has remained steadfast since 1975.

Purpose-driven finance

Oikocredit began with a revolutionary idea: using capital to uplift people and communities rather than simply generate profit. Five decades later, this vision has evolved into a thriving global cooperative with more than 45,000 investors. Through partnerships in microfinance, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy, Oikocredit’s investments have helped families strengthen livelihoods, farmers improve yields, and communities access cleaner and more reliable energy.

My connection to Oikocredit runs deep. I served on its International Board for six years more than a decade ago, and I remain personally grateful for the way the organization has modelled the power of values-based finance. Seeing this anniversary celebration felt like coming home to a community that continues to inspire me.

The impact evolution

This year’s theme— “The Impact Evolution: Changing the World by Investing Differently” — captured not only the spirit of the event but also the urgency of our time. As global inequalities widen and climate risks intensify, the world needs financial institutions willing to challenge old models and pioneer new pathways. The celebration was as much a look forward as it was a look back.