Abstract
Interoperable financial technologies (i-FinTech) present transformative solutions to supply-side barriers in rural financial inclusion. This study examines how i-FinTech adoption reduces digital exclusion and influences formal financial institutions by reshaping lending behaviour, operational strategies, and policy frameworks to improve credit access for smallholder farmers). Using the Punjab Government’s e-Credit initiative as a case study, the research explores the role of mobile wallets, APIs, and digital collateralization in fostering seamless connections between FIs, public institutions, technology and mobile network providers. Employing a qualitative methodology, including semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis of policy documents, the paper provides insights into supply-side barriers and practical evidence of institutional change. Findings highlight i-FinTech’s potential to reduce digital divides, and address Financial Institution hesitations to engage with smallholder farmers. This paper offers actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners, demonstrating how i-FinTech can drive rural financial inclusion by aligning institutional strategies with digital innovation
Recommended Citation
Khan, Muhammad Mushaf and Kutar, Maria, "Interoperable Financial Technologies Breaking
Down Barriers for Financial Inclusion of
Smallholder Farmers: a case study of e-Credit" (2025). UK Academy for Information Systems Conference Proceedings 2025. 19.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/ukais2025/19