Access to finance for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) continues to be a major challenge, despite their critical role in driving economic growth, employment and innovation. The lack of access to adequate and affordable financing limits the ability of MSMEs to growth and innovation, expand their businesses and improve productivity. In addition, lack of value-add support in the form of training and advisory services, hinder the sustainable development of MSMEs.  

Development Financial Institutions (DFIs) in particular SME banks play a critical role in bridging this gap. This is because DFIs are operated under the mandate of supporting financial and economic development, targeting MSMEs that are excluded or underserved by the traditional financial institutions. In addition to offering financial supports, SME banks support the growth and development of MSMEs by providing them with end-to-end facilitation and equipping with demand-side improvements including financial knowledge, skills, product development and business support that they need. They also offer support to enable MSMEs to leverage on digitalization for effective management of their businesses.  

This session will therefore explore how SME banks enhance access to finance for MSMEs, highlighting best practices, innovative approaches, and the impact of their interventions. 

Some of the objectives of the webinar include: 

• To learn from member countries that have development financial institutions (DFIs) -SME Bank- on its roles in facilitating the access to finance and growth of MSMEs.  
• Discuss the financial policies, products and development programs available for MSMEs.