Analyzing the Solutions of Microcredit Funds to Empower Rural Women (Case study: Lorestan Province)

The Purpose of this study was to analyzing the solutions of microcredit funds to empower rural women (ERW) in Lorestan province. Statistical population of this research consisted the rural women of micro credit fund members in Lorestan province (N= 772) that 160 of them determined as a statistical sample by using Cochran’s formula. Samples were selected based on multi stage sampling method and data were collected by questionnaire. Questionnaire's reliability and validity were confirmed respectively through computing Cronbach's alpha coefficient (0.89) and content validity. Data analyzed by SPSS20 and LISREL8.8 software. According to results of the exploratory factor analysis solutions of microcredit fund in the ERW in Lorestan province categorized in five factors that in order of importance are: 1) supporting members and directing their activities; 2) providing training to members and the board; 3) improving fund management; 4) utilizing side capacities; and 5) enhancing participatory spirit among Members. These solutions explained 68.3% of the total variance. Results of the confirmatory factor analysis indicated the significance of these factors as solutions for improve the functioning of microcredit funds to ERW in Lorestan province.