In its 5th generation, SEEP's Network Capacity Assessment Tool (NCAT) is the only internationally recognized tool available to evaluate the organizational capacity of microfinance associations. It has 75 indicators in 8 areas of organizational effectiveness. The fully revised NCAT 5.1 includes association standards of excellence, an assessment framework, a guide to using the tool, a scoring guide, and additional annexes such as revised interview questions and other planning tools and helpful resources.

For more information on the NCAT 5.1, please contact Bintou Ka-Niang at kaniang@seepnetwork.org

SEEP’s NCAT is a globally-recognized assessment methodology for evaluating the institutional capacity of microfinance associations. First developed in 2000, the NCAT has been continuously revised and improved to reflect the developments of the microfinance industry and the expanding roles of microfinance associations. The NCAT 5.1 is the latest version of the assessment tool and includes two new capacity areas, transparency and consumer protection, in addition to the existing six areas: governance, operations, financial viability, human resources, external relations, and service delivery.

The transparency section looks at the availability and quality of microfinance sector market information produced by the association that may include financial and social performance data. The consumer protection area reviews members’ policies and practices such as the existence of grievance mechanisms and the disclosure of clear information on pricing calculations and interest rates to ensure that clients understand their rights and obligations.

The new capacity areas highlight associations’ evolving role in promoting responsible finance practices in their markets and for their clients. The NCAT 5.1 was first piloted in 2012 through the Responsible Finance through Local Leadership program and the finalized version has recently been utilized in association assessments in Cape Verde and Colombia.