This study based on an analysis of the Sikap Buhay Programme of the Quezon City Government, contibutes to the analysis of the impact of local level interventions in the informal economy against the goal of creating decent work for all and how these interventions have brought about changes in the lives of target beneficiaries, mostly working women. One important finding is that microfinance provides an avenue for those persons with enterpreneurial ability to unlock their skills. For the majority of participants however, participation in the programme allows for social networking and improved cash management but does not play a significant role in alleviating poverty.