Women running small businesses in Suriname have traditionally faced a number of challenges, including limited financial literacy and difficulties meeting lending requirements.

Through the National Financial Inclusion and Education Strategy 2024–2027, the Central Bank is working with partners to expand access to finance and strengthen women-led businesses across the country.

A new AFI video, produced in collaboration with the Central Bank of Suriname (CBvS), documents how SURGE – a World Bank-financed project implemented by Suriname’s Ministry of Economic Affairs – is helping women entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, build financial skills, and unlock their full potential.

“We saw in this program that women tend to generate more revenue in the businesses they are involved in than men,” said Suriname Minister of Economic Affairs, Andrew Baasaron. “The average was about 20 percent.”

“Women’s financial inclusion is not just a social objective, but also an economic necessity,” says CBS International Relations Officer, Vanessa D’Costa-Chehin. “When women can save, access credit and invest in productive activities, they are better positioned to grow businesses, contribute to economic growth and strengthen household resilience.”

Learn more in the video…