With a comprehensive online platform that rivals those of big banks, Jana Small Finance Bank helps India unbanked access a full complement of financial services. Founded as a non-profit organisation in 1999, and the country’s first urban micro-credit institution, Jana grew into a fully licensed bank that now serves well over 4.2 million accountholders. However, Jana Small Finance Bank remains true to its roots and keeps its operations customer-focussed, as opposed to product-driven.
At Jana Small Finance Bank, most customers may be of modest means but receive a level of service and attention normally only encountered at private banks. Staff has been trained to deal with customers who may have difficulty in understanding the complexities of modern banking. By showing the utmost respect, Jana Small Finance Bank not only helps its accountholders navigate the system, but also extract benefits. The bank’s unique business model ensures sustainable growth propelled by word of mouth. Thanks to its customers – who effectively have become brand ambassadors – Jana Small Finance Bank expects to top eight million accounts by 2020.
The Jana-approach to retail banking, and the brand loyalty it inspires, virtually assures future growth as customers, now financially empowered, become more affluent. Tapping into India’s vast development potential, allows the bank to broaden and deepen its customer base.
The CFI.co judging panel commends the bank on its corporate mission and vision. The judges agree to name Jana Small Finance Bank winner of the 2018 Best Inclusive Finance Services India Award.