IFAD's approach to rural finance focuses on improving access to financial services through a variety of institutions and approaches while promoting sustainability and poverty reduction. Examples of IFAD experiences include savings and credit associations in Syria that have provided loans to over 13,500 members, and refinancing facilities in countries like Armenia and Macedonia that have approved over $20 million in loans to farmers and small businesses. The document also discusses equity financing models in countries like Armenia that make strategic investments in rural enterprises combined with advisory services.