EBRD launches SME support package in Benin

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has launched its comprehensive support package for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Benin, rolling out its development expertise to help boost private-sector-led growth, according to a press release. The launch marks an important step in the EBRD’s engagement in Benin, introducing SMEs, financial institutions, donors and other private-sector stakeholders to the Bank’s advisory and financing solutions. The offering is designed to help SMEs become more competitive, investment-ready and resilient. It will also strengthen cooperation with banks, business associations and the wider private-sector ecosystem. The initiative was unveiled on 9 September 2026.

Benin became an EBRD shareholder in 2024 and a country of operation in July 2025. The Bank’s priorities in Benin include helping to develop sustainable infrastructure, modernize companies and strengthen economic institutions. To mark the launch, the EBRD convened more than 100 representatives from Benin’s private-sector ecosystem in Cotonou. Attendees included SMEs and mid-cap companies, commercial banks, business associations, chambers of commerce, investment organizations, corporates, development finance institutions and public agencies. The event allowed businesses and partners to explore potential areas of cooperation.

The EBRD’s advisory programmes will connect SMEs in Benin with local and international expertise to help them address key business challenges and pursue new opportunities for growth. This support will advance the Bank’s priorities of inclusion, digitalization and the green transition. It will assist women- and youth-led businesses, support SMEs in adopting digital technologies, and enable companies to become more energy- and resource-efficient. Companies in Benin will also be able to benefit from the EBRD’s flagship Blue Ribbon programme, which provides tailored advisory and financing support to high-potential firms. The Star Venture programme, which backs innovative, high-growth startups, will likewise be available.

Alongside advisory support, the EBRD will work with financial institutions and corporates to extend new financing opportunities to Beninese businesses. Its SME finance offering includes the Risk Sharing Facility, through which the Bank shares risk with partner financial institutions on individual loans to local companies. It also features the Supply Chain Solutions Framework, designed to expand access to working-capital finance across corporate supply chains.

Dasha Dougans, EBRD Head of Benin, said: “Supporting private-sector growth and innovation is a key priority for the EBRD in Benin, and we are delighted to bring the Bank’s established SME support to the country.” She added that expanding access to finance and tailored business advice can help SMEs “realise their potential to grow, innovate and create jobs.”

Dougans emphasized that “a strong and competitive SME sector is essential to building a dynamic and inclusive economy, creating new opportunities for ambitious business owners and contributing to Benin’s long-term sustainable growth.” The rollout in Benin combines the EBRD’s advisory offering with dedicated financing instruments to serve firms of varying sizes. Local partners will play a central role through intermediated finance and risk-sharing arrangements. The launch represents an expansion of the Bank’s presence in the country following its recent status as a country of operation. Together, these tools are intended to help SMEs in Benin grow, innovate and compete.