Access Bank and ITC Partner to Boost African SME Growth
Access Bank has partnered with the International Trade Centre (ITC) to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa.
In Brief
- •Access Bank has partnered with the International Trade Centre (ITC) to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Africa.
- •The initiative will begin with a pilot phase in Ghana, focusing on women-led enterprises and addressing key obstacles to SME expansion.
- •The partnership aims to provide access to finance, markets, and skills, with a focus on job creation, financial inclusion, and digital trade skills.
Why It Matters
This partnership is significant as it addresses the critical challenges faced by African SMEs, which account for a significant share of employment on the continent. By providing access to finance, markets, and skills, the initiative aims to help SMEs grow and compete more effectively, ultimately contributing to economic development and job creation. The focus on women-led enterprises also aligns with broader goals of financial inclusion and gender equality.
Key Details
- Participating Countries
- 14 African countries including Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, and others
- Pilot Phase Duration
- September 2026 to June 2027
- Focus Areas
- Job creation, access to finance, business sustainability, capacity building, and digital trade skills
Context & Background
African SMEs face significant challenges in securing capital, market connections, and technical capabilities required for expansion. The partnership aims to address these challenges through a comprehensive approach that includes financial support, market access, and skill development.
Original Reporting & Sources
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