Label Finance Solidaire

The Label Finansol is a French certification mark that distinguishes solidarity-based financial products and services. Established in 1997 by Finansol, a leading non-profit association promoting solidarity finance, the label serves as a quality standard, ensuring that investments genuinely contribute to social and environmental impact alongside financial returns.

The core mission of the Label Finansol is to steer savings and investments towards organizations and projects that address pressing societal challenges. These include combating poverty and social exclusion, promoting fair trade, supporting renewable energy and environmental protection, fostering social entrepreneurship, and providing access to employment and housing for disadvantaged populations.

To earn the Label Finansol, a financial product or service must meet stringent criteria. This rigorous evaluation process is conducted by an independent committee and focuses on two key aspects:

1. Solidarity Investment: A significant portion of the funds raised must be channeled into social enterprises and projects with a demonstrably positive social and/or environmental impact. The exact percentage varies depending on the product type but always reflects a substantial commitment to solidarity finance.
2. Transparency and Information: The financial institution must provide clear and accessible information about the investment strategy, the social and environmental impact of the supported projects, and the associated risks and fees. This transparency empowers investors to make informed decisions aligned with their values.

The Label Finansol provides several benefits to investors. First and foremost, it offers assurance and credibility. The label acts as a trusted guide, helping investors identify products that genuinely contribute to social and environmental causes, mitigating the risk of “impact washing.” Secondly, it provides access to meaningful impact. By investing in Label Finansol products, individuals and institutions can directly support organizations working on critical issues and contribute to building a more equitable and sustainable society. Thirdly, it promotes transparency and accountability. The rigorous evaluation process ensures that financial institutions are held accountable for their social and environmental claims, fostering greater trust and confidence in the solidarity finance sector.

The Label Finansol covers a range of financial products, including: solidarity-based savings accounts, mutual funds, life insurance policies, and employee savings plans. These products are offered by a variety of financial institutions, including banks, insurance companies, and asset management firms. This diverse range allows investors to find products that suit their risk tolerance, investment goals, and social and environmental priorities.

The Label Finansol has played a significant role in the growth and development of solidarity finance in France. It has raised awareness among investors, encouraged financial institutions to develop socially responsible products, and helped to channel billions of euros towards impactful projects. While primarily focused on the French market, the Label Finansol serves as a valuable model for other countries looking to promote responsible and impactful investing.

In conclusion, the Label Finansol is a powerful tool for promoting solidarity finance. It provides a trusted framework for identifying and supporting investments that generate both financial returns and positive social and environmental impact. By choosing Label Finansol products, investors can actively contribute to building a more just and sustainable world.