Friedrich Willy Raiffeisen

Friedrich Wilhelm Raiffeisen was a German social reformer and cooperativist born in 1818. He is best known for founding the cooperative banking movement, which aimed to help local farmers and workers access affordable credit and financial services. By creating community-based banks, known as Raiffeisen Banks, he promoted self-help, mutual aid, and economic development. His work significantly contributed to the growth of modern cooperative banking and financial inclusion, empowering communities to become more self-sufficient and resilient. Raiffeisen’s ideas continue to influence cooperative financial systems worldwide.