The first microfinance institutions appeared in the early 1970s in Latin America and South Asia. Their goal was to help poor people find a revenue-generating activity, while many non-government organisations were mainly focusing on providing the necessities and infrastructure. By lending small amounts, these organisations, like Grameen in Bangladesh and ACCION in South America, enable poor people to access banks and set up small businesses. Even though many bankers believe it is too risky to lend to very poor people, the major microcredit institutions have shown satisfying repayment rates (how much borrowed money is paid back). They are different types of microfinance institutions. Some are non-profit organisations, others are co-operatives (like a 'club'), while some traditional banks are starting to develop microfinance activities. With advanced technology, the range of services has also gradually widened. In 2006, Mohammed Yunus, the founder of Grameen Bank, received the Nobel Peace prize for his effort to fight poverty at its roots.
