For over 30 years, Luxembourg-based NGO ADA has specialised in fostering economic self-sufficiency among vulnerable populations.
With a €15-20 million annual budget and 50 employees, the organisation distinguishes itself through its financial services approach, reaching nearly 300,000 beneficiaries globally in 2024.
Founded in 1994 with a microfinance focus, ADA has expanded to support entrepreneurship development at both individual and community levels. Gilles Franck, Vice-President of ADA’s administrative board, explains that the organisation’s work goes beyond basic skills, ensuring beneficiaries understand the fundamentals of launching and sustaining businesses.
The NGO delivers support through financial products including microcredit and insurance, alongside digitalisation initiatives. All programmes are implemented through a carefully vetted network of local partner organisations. Geographically, Africa accounts for approximately two-thirds of ADA’s partnerships, with remaining operations concentrated in Central America and Southeast Asia.
ADA’s budget derives primarily from Luxembourgish development cooperation funds, which cover about two-thirds of its financing. The remaining third comes from European agencies, Swiss and German partners, and private sector sponsors.
While addressing procedural reviews following the Caritas scandal, Franck notes ADA’s relatively stable public standing. According to the NGO’s Vice-President, ADA’s lower public engagement profile has somewhat insulated it from the broader crisis of confidence in NGOs.
