Chamroeun's mission is to increase the livelihoods, skills and self-confidence of families in very precarious situations in Cambodia by providing microfinance services as well as socio-economic services.
Between 2009 and 2019, Cambodia experienced economic growth and a generalized rise in incomes. This rapid expansion, combined with structural changes, has led to higher wages and higher living standards, reducing disparities between urban and rural households. However, since 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a sharp increase in the poverty rate, plunging nearly 500,000 people below the poverty line. Cambodia's future economic opportunities depend on its ability to pursue the necessary reforms.
Faced with the major challenges faced by poor and underserved communities in Phnom Penh, Entrepreneurs du Monde concluded an agreement in late 2005 with the municipality and the Cambodian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to launch a social microfinance project. Thus was created Chamroeun (which means “progress” in English) in 2006, with the mission of providing financial and non-financial services to disadvantaged families in urban areas of Phnom Penh. In 2010, it reached financial equilibrium and is now completely independent of Entrepreneurs du Monde, with a gross asset portfolio exceeding 45 million euros.
Chamroeun mainly offers adapted loans, savings and microinsurance services. Its commitment to its social mission remains very strong, with staff dedicated to improving the living conditions of beneficiaries. The organization employs 406 employees and covers 15 regions through 21 agencies.
