Helping women entrepreneurs thrive across the southern and eastern Mediterranean

Women entrepreneurs in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia are expanding their businesses and generating employment with backing from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union (EU), according to a press release issued on 15 October 2026. The initiative links financing with practical advisory services designed for women-led enterprises. It operates across four countries in the southern and eastern Mediterranean region. The programme reflects a joint effort between the two institutions. Together, they aim to help entrepreneurs convert ambition into measurable business growth.

The support is delivered through the Financial Inclusion Programme, which combines access to finance with expert guidance. The programme targets women entrepreneurs seeking to strengthen and scale their enterprises. It operates in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia. Each of these countries is an established area of EBRD engagement. The EU partners with the EBRD to extend the reach of this support.

According to the press release, the combination of financing and know-how is helping entrepreneurs turn ambition into opportunity. This approach addresses both capital constraints and knowledge gaps faced by business owners. The programme is designed to strengthen businesses as well as the communities around them. Video testimonials shared by the EBRD highlight the experiences of participating entrepreneurs. These stories illustrate how the support translates into tangible business outcomes.

As described by the EBRD, “access to finance and know-how helps women entrepreneurs turn ambition into thriving businesses, creating jobs and new opportunities in their communities.” The statement underscores the dual focus on financial resources and skills development. It also connects enterprise growth with wider community benefits. Job creation is cited as a central outcome of the initiative. The programme places women entrepreneurs at the center of local economic activity.

The Financial Inclusion Programme continues to support women-led businesses across the southern and eastern Mediterranean. Entrepreneurs in Egypt, Jordan, Morocco and Tunisia remain the primary beneficiaries. The EBRD and the EU jointly sustain the initiative. Broadcast-quality video materials are available through the EBRD Communications Department for media use. The programme reinforces efforts to strengthen businesses and communities across the region.