Christian Microenterprise Development: An Introduction

by David Bussau and Russel Mark

“Microenterprise Development” (MED) is the new buzzword in missions today. With evangelical missionaries attempting to present a holistic gospel, economic and business development is now a component of many missions. Yet, MED remains an under-researched topic riddled with far more questions than answers.

Regnum Books International, P.O. Box 70, Oxford OX2 6HB, UK, 2003, 142 pages, $10.00.

—Reviewed by Jason G. Borges, Talbot Theological Seminary, La Mirada, California.

“Microenterprise Development” (MED) is the new buzzword in missions today. With evangelical missionaries attempting to present a holistic gospel, economic and business development is now a component of many missions. Yet, MED remains an under-researched topic riddled with far more questions than answers.

Bussau and Mask clearly introduce the basic terms, foundations, methods and problems of MED from a uniquely Christian perspective. Based on secular MED literature and eight case studies of Christian MED programs around the world, this handbook provides information for planning, implementing and evaluating MED programs seeking to holistically proclaim Christ.

The five main chapters clarify and answer the following questions. How do Christians develop a vision for a MED program to facilitate financial sustainability and spiritual transformation? What methodologies and economic activities can MED programs implement to accomplish the vision? How can Christian MED programs ensure financial soundness and sustainability without sacrificing spiritually transforming activities? What type of leadership and governance do Christian MED programs require? What strategies can Christian MED implement for spiritual transformation?

In addition to the ninety-two pages of text, the fifty pages of appendices are a gold-mine of information essential for the MED practitioner: a glossary of technical terms, the characteristics of an effective Christian MED organization, tables of research data, an up-to-date bibliography and MED resources on the Internet.

Most admirably, this book is not a recapitulation of secular MED books with some Bible verses sprinkled throughout. Rather, each chapter reflects the concerns of Christian MED practitioners. The authors are obviously committed to doing MED within the larger context of Christ’s kingdom. Also, the clear writing style and systematic layout makes the content readily accessible. For example, the checklists concluding each chapter distill the main issues which the MED practitioner and donor must address. Additionally, the authors’ wisdom, based on extensive research and experience, is evident in nearly every paragraph.

Unfortunately, the authors’ use of the social sciences is minimal. Since MED is a cross-cultural task for most practitioners, it would seem wise to incorporate anthropological insights. Also, the discussion is unfortunately limited to microfinance issues (savings and lending). The absence of other aspects of MED (insurance, skills training, business development and marketing assistance) makes the title misleading.

Overall, this book accomplishes its purpose of providing “information to help Christian MED practitioners and donors better understand how to apply Christian MED in ways that build Christ’s kingdom” (93).

Check these titles:
Myers, Bryant. 1999. Walking with the Poor: Principles and Practices of Transformational Development. Mary-knoll, N.Y.: Orbis and World Vision.

Daley-Harris, Sam, ed. 2002. Pathways out of Poverty. Bloomfield, Conn.: Kumarian Press, Inc.

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