Client: Various Community-Based VSLAs
Industry: Community Finance, Microfinance, Savings Groups
Products Used: Smartcore (VSLA Edition), VSLA Mobile App
Services: System Development, Mobile App Deployment, Payments Integration, Field Automation

Project Summary

Smartfric developed and deployed a complete digital management system for Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs), enabling groups to manage their operations independently through a mobile-first ecosystem. The solution links the VSLA Mobile App directly to the Smartcore core banking engine, allowing groups to manage contributions, savings, loans, and repayments without requiring branch visits.

Client Challenges

Traditional VSLAs rely heavily on manual processes:

• Paper-based contribution tracking

• Delayed reconciliation

• Limited transparency

• No digital records for loan applications

• No integrated payment channels

• High risk of errors and mismanagement

VSLAs needed a simple, accessible, and digital tool that preserves their community-led model while removing the inefficiencies of manual work.

Solution Delivered by Smartfric

Smartfric designed a VSLA Automation System combining a tailored Smartcore backend with a powerful mobile application for group administrators.

1. VSLA Mobile App for Group Administrators

The group leader (Chairperson, Treasurer, or Secretary) is equipped with a mobile app that enables:

• Member onboarding and registration

• Recording contributions and group savings

• Creating loan applications for members

• Reviewing repayment history

• Approving group financial activities

• Secure communication with members

• Access to real-time reports and balances

2. Seamless Integration with Smartcore Core Banking System

The VSLA App connects directly to Smartcore, enabling:

• Centralized data storage

• Real-time loan processing

• Accurate records of contributions and shared funds

• Automated ledgers and statements

• Secure audit trails

• Instant updates for repayments and loan status

3. Digital Loan and Repayment Management

Members can apply for loans through the VSLA group leader directly in the app. Smartcore processes:

• Loan request

• Approval workflows

• Interest calculations

• Repayment schedules

• Arrears tracking

4. Integrated Payments for Contributions & Repayments

The system enables digital payments, allowing:

• Mobile money contributions

• Wallet-based repayments

• Automated reconciliation

• Reduced cash risks

5. Communication & Notification Center

Built-in tools support:

• Announcements

• Meeting reminders

• Contribution alerts

• Loan status updates

Ensuring every member stays informed.

Impact & Results

The VSLA Digital Management System transformed community savings groups through:

• Full digital transparency for all members

• Reduced manual errors and improved accountability

• Faster loan processing and better cash-flow visibility

• Secure digital records replacing paper books

• Convenient contributions and repayments via mobile channels

• Greater financial inclusion by linking informal groups to formal banking infrastructure