Washington, D.C. April 2, 2019 –  Advans Group became the newest member of the SME Finance Forum, a global membership network that brings together financial institutions, technology companies, and development finance institutions to share knowledge, spur innovation, and promote the growth of SMEs. 

“200 million businesses worldwide need financing to invest, grow and create new jobs. We are proud to have Advans Group join our network of 150 members who work to expand access to finance for small and medium businesses,” said Matthew Gamser, CEO of the Forum. 

Advans Group is an integrated, international microfinance group built upon over a decade of experience in developing and managing, through its holding Advans SA, leading microfinance companies in its nine countries of operation. Established in 2005, their mission is to respond to the need for financial services of small businesses and other populations who have ill–adapted, limited or no access to formal financial services through providing tailored financial services in a sustainable and responsible manner. 

“We believe membership with the Forum will create a plethora of opportunities to share our experience and learn from other institutions focused on SME finance,” said Steven Duchatelle, CEO of Advans Group.  

Advans Group looks forward to peer exchanges with the Forum's global network of 150+ members. 

To see all SME Finance Forum members, please visit: https://www.smefinanceforum.org/members/member-list 

About SME Finance Forum 
The Forum operates a global membership network that brings together financial institutions, technology companies, and development finance institutions to share knowledge, spur innovation, and promote the growth of SMEs. Its members share a common commitment to advancing finance so that small and medium enterprises can flourish and grow. The SME Finance Forum was established by the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) in 2012 and is managed by the International Finance Corporation (World Bank Group).       

About Advans Group 
Advans Group, established in 2005 aims to build a model group of financial institutions which contribute to strengthening local businesses, creating and sustaining jobs and improving clients’ living standards in order to foster private sector–led economic and social development in Africa, the Middle–East and Asia. 

Media Contact 
Carmen Smith 
csmith11@ifc.org