For Mongolia’s rural populations, harsh winters, droughts, and unpredictable weather patterns are making traditional livelihoods increasingly difficult.

AFI’s latest impact story video, produced in collaboration with the Financial Regulatory Commission (FRC) of Mongolia, highlights how Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SCCs) are helping herders build financial resilience, adopt environmentally-friendly practices, and build more secure futures for their families.

SCCs are opening up access to financial services that were previously difficult to obtain, providing tailored savings and loans products, as well as financial education. As a result, herders are able to invest in water wells, improve pasture management, diversify income sources, and build preparedness for future climate shocks.

“By directing financial flows wisely, regulators can ensure that vulnerable communities have access to financial services, while also guiding investments toward green and sustainable projects,” said Altantuul Tsogtsaikhan, Director of the Savings and Credit Cooperative Department at FRC Mongolia.

“Saving and credit cooperatives play a powerful role in helping communities shift towards safer practices and adapt to environmental challenges,” said Bulbul Kubyeikhan from FRC Mongolia’s Savings and Credit Cooperative Department. “Because cooperatives are community led, members trust the institutions more than external programs. This leads to higher uptake of safer and environmentally sound practices.”

The video reveals how inclusive finance goes beyond economic support, helping communities to adapt, collaborate, and prepare for a changing climate, while protecting their traditional ways of life. Watch the full video below.

AFI’s global Inclusive Green Finance workstream is supported by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency and other funding partners.