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Publication: The Use of Alternative Data in Credit Risk Assessment: Opportunities, Risks, and Challenges
Data Analytics
Digitalization accelerated by the pandemic has exponentially increased the number and variability of alternative data sources. The stay-at-home requirements during the pandemic forced several business models to be digitized. This helped spur the digitization that had been ongoing pre-pandemic, largely driven by governments as countries sought to leverage the benefits of the digital economy. Advances in technological innovations are also facilitating the development of advanced credit underwriting models and the use of structured and unstructured data to assess creditworthiness. This has enabled the financial industry to actively integrate alternative data to gain a competitive edge. This study examines the evolution...Read more
Yemen Microfinance Network (YMN), Yemen's microfinance institutions association, an NGO co-funded by UNDP and SFD, joins the SME Finance Forum
Financial Education
Financial Inclusion
Washington D.C, March 7, 2025 – Yemen Microfinance Network (YMN) , Yemen's microfinance institutions association, an NGO co-funded by UNDP and SFD has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest member. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum are SME financing experts operating in 190 countries who share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. "SME Finance Forum is delighted to welcome Yemen's microfinance institutions association. It is with great pleasure I welcome Yemen Microfinance Network to SME Finance Forum. Yemen Microfinance Network's efforts in strengthening...Read more

Kifiya

Founded in 2012, Kifiya's vision is creating equitable access to market and finacial services for micro, small and medium enterprises(MSMEs), smallholder farmers (SHFs) & low and middle-income individuals. 
 
At the center of our technology stack are: 1) an AI driven alternative data-based scoring plateform that enables MSMEs, SHFs, and Individuals to be credit scored, and 2) an embedded finance infrastructure supporting credit, payment, insurance, and wallet services that drive the development of nine platforms. Together, these technologies enable FIs, MFIs, and FinTechs to offer various types of micro and small credit, micro insurance, and payment products and services. 
 
One of our key platfoms released 18 months ago is Qena, our intelligent financial services platform with KYC+ loan origination, complete credit management and collection modules. It leverages the credit scoring platform to enable banks and MFIs provide uncollateralized digital micro and small credit to MSMes, SHFs & Individuals.
 

M1xchange

M1xchange TReDS is a digital marketplace that enables seamless invoice discounting for MSMEs. It helps unlock working capital efficiently, enhancing liquidity and financial stability.

Business Partners

Business Partners was established in South Africa 1981, and to date has unlocked business value in over 71 000 business finance transactions, providing customized finance solutions to SMEs using debt, equity and blended finance as well as providing comprehensive technical assistance to help portfolio companies grow. Apart from our extensive experience in South Africa, Business Partners has also invested and managed various funds in East and Southern Africa over the last 20 years. The Global SME Finance Awards named Business Partners the 2019 Gold winner in the SME Bank of the Year – Africa.

Fauree, UAE’s Leading Supply Chain Finance & Working Capital Solutions Provider, Joins SME Finance Forum
Supply & Value Chain Finance
Washington D.C, March 12, 2025 – Fauree , UAE’s leading provider of supply chain finance and working capital solutions, has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest member. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum are SME financing experts operating in 190 countries who share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. "The SME Finance Forum is delighted to welcome UAE’s leading provider of supply chain finance and working capital solutions. It is with great pleasure that I welcome Fauree to the SME Finance Forum. Fauree's...Read more
Non Financial Services Innovation Hub - Solution Clinic
Non Financial Services
While there are many challenges for SMEs, there are important steps SMEs can take to build resilience, including improvements in financial literacy to navigate uncertainty. Business decisions can be challenging for SMEs if they fail to identify key metrics to measure performance and report relevant data to financial service providers. This hub will discuss how to help SMEs improve financial understanding and awareness, get relevant business advice and effectively manage liquidity and debt. On the other end, members will also tackle how financial service providers can improve their own understanding of digital disruptions in financial services​ so they can implement...Read more
G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion - Action Plan for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Financing
G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion - Action Plan for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Financing Join us on May 29 th , 2025 , at 8:00 AM EST for an insightful discussion of the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) Action Plan for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Financing, recently released. The Action Plan The G20/GPFI for MSME Financing Action Plan is a call to action for G20 and non G20 countries to intensify their efforts to close the MSME financing gap given the potential impact on productivity, job creation and achieving the sustainable development goals. The credit...Read more
Convergence Blended Finance, the Global Blended Finance Network Driving Private Investment in Developing Countries, joins the SME Finance Forum.
Equity
Data Analytics
Washington D.C, March 26, 2025 – Convergence Blended Finance , the global blended finance network driving private investment in developing countries, has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest affiliate. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum are SME financing experts operating in 190 countries who share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. "SME Finance Forum proudly welcomes Convergence Blended Finance (Convergence). Convergence’s expertise in blended finance and commitment to increasing private sector investment in developing countries align perfectly with our mission to expand financial...Read more
Vayana, India's largest Supply Chain Finance Network, joins the SME Finance Forum
Supply & Value Chain Finance
Washington D.C, April 7, 2025 – Vayana , India's largest Supply Chain Finance Network has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest member. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum are SME financing experts operating in 190 countries who share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. SME Finance Forum is delighted to welcome India's largest Supply Chain Finance Network. It is with great pleasure that I welcome Vayana to the SME Finance Forum. Vayana’s pioneering efforts in operationalizing the ITFS platform demonstrate their dedication to...Read more

Seu Ativo

Seu Ativo, founded by seasoned professionals with expertise in investments, payments, and technology, aims to develop Brazil's invoice financing market amidst regulatory transformation by the Brazilian Central Bank. Focused on MSMEs and e-invoice issuers, Seu Ativo offers a fully digital process ensuring legitimacy and unicity for e-invoices and receivables. In association w/an Payment Institution, Seu Ativo have created a unique settlement process to ensure payments reach the true owner of the receivable.

Side event on enhancing SMEs’ integration in regional value and supply chains for job creation and sustainable growth in African vulnerable countries
Supply & Value Chain Finance
Sustainable Finance
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) are central to Africa’s economic transformation, representing a significant share of employment, innovation and GDP. However, their integration into regional value and supply chains remains limited, particularly in vulnerable countries. This virtual side event emphasizes the importance of strengthening SMEs’ participation in regional markets as a pathway to job creation and inclusive economic growth, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Co-organized with the Uganda Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, this side event will take place during the Eleventh Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD) to address the critical role of...Read more
Policy & Regulation
Global Symposium on Credit Guarantee May 29 – 30, 2025 Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) (Setup by Ministry of MSME, Govt. of India and SIDBI) This symposium organized by CGTMSE, a subsidiary of our member SIDBI. This is by invitation only for SME Finance Forum members and if you are interested in joining, please reach out to us at smefinanceforum@ifc.orgRead more
C2FO: Connecting SMEs with Equitable Access to Working Capital
Supply & Value Chain Finance
IFC and C2FO are working under a strategic partnership to bolster job growth and economic prosperity in emerging markets and developing economies. The first initiative will work to enhance financing for local enterprises in Africa by developing a specialized, web-based multinational working capital platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative is IFC's first dedicated supply chain financing facility in Africa for smaller businesses, and aims to provide much-needed liquidity to MSMEs without the need for risk-based underwriting. C2FO won the SME Financier of the Year Award at the Global SME Finance Forum Awards 2024 , the...Read more
FaturamPara, Turkey's first company with both RegTech and FinTech features, has joined the SME Finance Forum
Supply & Value Chain Finance
Washington D.C, April 3, 2025 – FaturamPara , Turkey's first company with both RegTech and FinTech features has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest member. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum are SME financing experts operating in 190 countries who share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. "SME Finance Forum is delighted to welcome Turkey's first company with both RegTech and FinTech features. It is with great pleasure I welcome FaturamPara to SME Finance Forum. As the exclusive authorized risk...Read more
OECD Financing SMEs and Entrepreneurs Scoreboard: 2025 Highlights
Policy & Regulation
The OECD Financing SMEs and Entrepreneurs Scoreboard: 2025 Highlights tracks financing trends, conditions and policy developments across nearly 50 countries. The paper provides official data on SME financing from 2007 to 2023, with additional insights for 2024 and early 2025, covering debt, equity, asset-based finance and overall financing conditions. It shows that SMEs continue to face a restrictive financing environment, with high interest rates and economic uncertainty leading to sharp declines in SME lending. Other financing sources, such as factoring and leasing, also showed weak performance, while venture capital investments fluctuated across markets and sectors. The shift towards smaller-scale, short-term...Read more
SME Finance Virtual Marketplace
Fintech
Empowering SMEs with Simplified ESG reporting Fintech Solutions About the Virtual SME Marketplace   Each month we are running  sessions  featuring leading small business lenders and SME growth facilitators who present their MSMEs offerings in a 7-minute pitch to an audience of potential financial institution clients and partners looking for impactful fintech solutions. Through those sessions - run by the SME Finance Forum - we foster collaboration between financial institutions, fintech companies, development finance institutions and investors. We have featured 150+ companies active in many different markets, attracted +2000 participants and generated many business leads, leading to investments, partnerships, and innovation advancement.  Topic ESG (Environmental, Social,...Read more
Information Session on Sustainable SME Financier of the Year, Global SME Finance Awards 2025
Sustainable Finance
Global SME Finance Awards 2025 Information Session on Sustainable SME Financier of the Year Be recognized, Share impact in SME FINANCE The SME Finance Forum organizes the Global SME Finance Awards (The Awards) as a core part of its mission to create a unique platform for peer connections, knowledge dissemination, and innovations in SME Finance. The Forum’s extensive 240+ global network, crowds in financial institutions, fintech companies, development banks, policymakers, and industry experts from across the globe, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and partnership building on a global scale. Hence, th e Global SME Finance Awards has evolved into a pinnacle...Read more
ADAPTA, US Tech Firm Expanding AI-Driven Risk Management in Global Agriculture, has joined the SME Finance Forum
Data & Cybersecurity
Washington D.C, April 2, 2025 – ADAPTA , US Tech Firm Expanding AI-Driven Risk Management in Global Agriculture has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest member. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum are SME financing experts operating in 190 countries who share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. "SME Finance Forum is delighted to welcome the US tech firm expanding AI-driven risk management in global agriculture. It is with great pleasure I welcome ADAPTA to SME Finance Forum. ADAPTA’s pioneering work in AI-driven,...Read more
Sustainable Finance
The two days program offers great insights into AKBANK’s remarkable efforts and achievements in digital design and innovation especially how the bank integrates digital technology including AI to deliver customer experiences. Serving almost one third of the SMEs market in Turkey, some of the key factors driving the bank’s significant growth in market share include: Automation and digitalization - The bank has heavily invested in automating its marketing, credit approval, and customer engagement processes, which has enabled it to be more efficient and responsive. Focus on qualified customers - The bank has deliberately targeted customers with higher credit scores and...Read more

ADAPTA

ADAPTA is a US-based technology company operating in East Africa, Latin America, and soon Asia. It offers an AI-driven, cloud-based risk management software solution that equips financial intermediaries with the necessary data and insights to assess and mitigate climate, soil, water, and biodiversity risks in agricultural loans and investments. Through its innovative technology, ADAPTA has received support from the Climate Catalytic Finance Facility to launch the Climate Finance Facility—a unique bank of banks providing technology, blended finance, and capacity-building to scale nature-based agricultural practices globally.

Agrifinance Innovation Hub - [Solutions Clinic]
Rural & Agriculture Finance
Agrifinance plays a very significant role in providing crucial access to capital for farmers and SME agribusinesses, allowing them to invest in necessary equipment, land, and seeds, enabling them to enhance their productivity, yields, and grow their operations and income. Due to the inherent uncertainties in agriculture, especially volatile weather patterns, unpredictable crop yields, unstable commodity prices, and access to input and output markets, which can considerably impact on the ability of farmers and agribusinesses to repay loans, creating the perception of a high-risk investment for lenders, particularly banks, compared to other sectors. This upcoming innovation hub on agrifinance, scheduled...Read more
Viet Nam: Creating Pre-Conditions for a Nonperforming Loan Market
Credit Risk & Scoring
Since 2020, #VietNam has experienced a surge in nonperforming loans (NPLs). Not only does the growing number of NPLs reduce the stability of the banking system, but each one represents a borrower excluded from credit markets. Many of the NPLs are consumer debts, meaning poorer households are particularly hard hit. IFC - International Finance Corporation ’s collaboration with The World Bank , SECO Economic Cooperation and Development , and local Vietnamese partners has led to the creation of specialized bankruptcy courts and increased private sector investment. IFC's investment aims to strengthen Viet...Read more
AI in SME Finance: Opportunities and Threats
Digital Financial Services
Fintech
Payments
AI technology plays a pivotal role in revolutionizing SME finance by offering many benefits and transforming traditional practices. It brings new opportunities for the financial and non-financial institutions by automating operational workflows, harnessing alternative data sources, and building new forecasting and credit models to serve previously excluded MSMEs. Nonetheless, the integration of AI technology also poses its own set of challenges. The utilization of AI within their respective organizations, both internally and in their interactions with SME clients; How their institutions operationalize AI for maximum gain; How their institutions navigate the inherent risks associated with the implementation of AI. Keynote...Read more
Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF), which enhances market transparency and combats financial crime through the implementation and use of the Legal Entity Identifier (LEI), joins the SME Finance Forum
Data Analytics
Washington D.C, March 26, 2025 – The Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF) , which enhances market transparency and combats financial crime through the implementation and use of the Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest affiliate. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum are SME financing experts operating in 190 countries who share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. "SME Finance Forum proudly welcomes the Global Legal Entity Identifier Foundation (GLEIF), which enhances market transparency and combats financial crime...Read more
 What is the Role of Modern Law on Warehouse Receipts in Increasing Investable Opportunities
Rural & Agriculture Finance
What is the Role of Modern Law on Warehouse Receipts in Increasing Investable Opportunities? [Open Webinar] - April 14, 2025 Click here to join the meeting Modern regimes or laws for warehouse receipts are necessary to facilitate agricultural finance and transactions with commodities. Many States have outdated or non-existent warehouse receipts laws that increase the cost of transactions and credit, exacerbating risks within the ecosystem. The 2024 UNCITRAL-UNIDOIT Model Law on Warehouse Receipts provides a framework for States to modernize their regimes, including enabling the use of electronic receipts, establishing registries, and operationalizing exchanges. This webinar...Read more
First Finance, a leading SME financial services provider in Iraq, adheres to the best international practices to support and empower small and medium-sized enterprises, joins the SME Finance Forum
Financial Inclusion
Washington D.C, March 24, 2025 – First Finance , a leading SME financial services provider in Iraq which adheres to international best practices to support and empower small and medium-sized enterprises has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest member. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum operate in 190 countries and share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. "SME Finance Forum is delighted to welcome First Finance. We appreciate First Finance's commitment to providing financial services to small and medium enterprises. This will significantly...Read more
Ghana: Updating the collateral registry system to increase access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.
MSMEs employ more than 80% of the workforce in #Ghana and account for over 70% of GDP. The majority of these enterprises are informal, consisting mainly of micro and sole enterprises operated by women and young entrepreneurs. While these small businesses play a critical role in economic growth and job creation, lack of information and collateral constraints limit their access to finance from formal financial institutions. With support from SECO Economic Cooperation and Development , IFC - International Finance Corporation worked closely with the Bank of Ghana to enhance the collateral registry...Read more
Is the rise of alternative data making credit bureaus obsolete? Not quite…
Credit Risk & Scoring
As digitalization accelerates, the use of alternative data should be seen as a complement rather than a threat to the traditional global credit bureau industry. A new blog by IFC - International Finance Corporation ’s Collen Masunda - (FCCA, CDFA, RPAC, Fulbright Fellow) explains that leveraging alternative data can significantly enhance access to credit for underserved individuals and micro, small, and medium enterprises ( #MSMEs ). Learn more about how integrating alternative data could boost financial inclusion and economic growth: https://lnkd.in/e4C-cVX3 This work is supported by the SECO Economic...Read more
Insurance Opportunities to Support Small Business Growth
SME Insurance
During our webinar on March 19th - organized in partnership with Berne Union - our guest speakers discussed the critical role of i nsurance for SMEs . Insurance acts as a shock absorber of adverse events, provides critical risk mitigation services, encourages saving, improves access to credit, and helps attract private capital to economies. They highlighted how insurers and other players in the sector each bring their expertise   to help reach SMEs in Emerging and De veloping markets (EMDC)...Read more
Launch of the OECD Financing SMEs and Scoreboard: 2025 Highlights
Credit Risk & Scoring
Unlocking SME Finance for Resilience and Competitiveness Launch of the OECD Financing SMEs and Scoreboard: 2025 Highlights REGISTER HERE SMEs and entrepreneurs are at an important crossroads. In recent years they have faced a series of challenges, from pandemic shutdowns to high inflation and historically rapid increases in interest rates. In 2023 alone, the cost of credit for SMEs rose by 6%, and bank lending to SMEs fell by 9%, a drop not seen since the Great Financial Crisis. While some of these pressures have begun to abate, financing conditions remain relatively tight, and uncertainty about the...Read more
First Gender Bond in West Africa: Ecobank Cote d'Ivoire
Gender Finance
Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, March 11, 2025 – To boost access to finance for women-led SMEs in Côte d’Ivoire, IFC and the Africa Local Currency Bond Fund (ALCB Fund) today announced an anchor investment in a gender bond from Ecobank Côte d’Ivoire, the first gender bond to be issued in the West Africa Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU). Proceeds from the bond will help Ecobank Côte d’Ivoire provide almost 1,200 loans to women-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (WMSMEs) in Côte d’Ivoire, supporting growth and job creation and helping to address the large credit gap women-owned businesses face in the country. Ecobank’s gender...Read more

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SME Finance Virtual Marketplace - Digital Lenders for Small Entrepreneurs
Digital Financial Services
During our latest Marketplace on March 12 th , the fintech invited highlighted how they serve small businesses in emerging markets to address the needs of underserved segments . Either through direct lending operations or partnering with financial institutions, Prestamype , Validus Q- lana , Vexi and Kaleidofin are strategically targeting small entrepreneurs to facilitate their access to finance and foster financial inclusion . The services they offer help SMEs overcome traditional barriers to credit, improve their...Read more
GBAC Green Banking Webinar Series [In Spanish]
Alternative Financing
Sobre el evento Las pequeñas y medianas empresas (PyMEs) son un pilar fundamental para el desarrollo económico en México y el mundo. A nivel global, representan más del 90% de las empresas y generan aproximadamente el 50% del empleo. En América Latina y el Caribe, constituyen cerca del 99% de los negocios y aportan alrededor del 30% del PIB. En México, las PyMEs generan el 52% del PIB y el 72% del empleo formal. Sin embargo, la brecha de financiamiento para las PyMEs en América Latina y el Caribe se estima en más de 1.2 billones de dólares, lo que...Read more

Fauree

Fauree is a leading provider of supply chain finance and working capital solutions, leveraging technology to boost efficiency and cut costs. Fauree's Supply Chain Finance, where we empower SMEs through transparent, efficient, and sustainable solutions. Our cutting-edge platform supports local suppliers, fortifies supply chains, and fosters economic diversification and workforce development. By offering superior financing options and enhancing cash flow, we enable businesses to flourish and significantly contribute to broader economic and social ICV policy objectives. Our cloud-based platform provides real-time reporting and customizable workflows, optimizing financial operations and working capital management. With an extensive suite of services—including supply chain financing, receivable financing, distributor finance, dynamic discounting, and Sharia-compliant products—Fauree meets diverse industry needs on a global scale.

FaturamPara

FaturamPara is the exclusive authorized risk center for the Electronic Document Registration Center and is the Regulatory Technologies company that implemented the central software, which is the first global application of the United Nations Trade Commission's Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records, issued in 2017.
 
FaturamPara, which has developed an innovative system that transforms an innovative payment system based on e-invoices, is a pioneer in the world by enabling payment, insurance, credit, collateral, and accounting transactions for electronic invoices in a 360-degree closed loop. By contributing to sustainable supply chains, FaturamPara are leading the way in empowering SMEs to grow without boundaries.

Beltone SMEs

Beltone SMEs offers tailored financing solutions for a wide range of products and services. Committed to client-centricity and innovation, Beltone SMEs empowers small and medium-sized enterprises to thrive in today's dynamic market. The company's mission is to support SME growth and development by providing the necessary financial tools and resources to achieve their goals. In Augst 2024, Beltone SMEs received a Small to Medium Enteirprises Finance License from the Financial Regulatory Authority.

BCP

Banco de Crédito del Perú (BCP) is the largest bank and the largest supplier of integrated financial services in Perú with approximately US$40 billion in total assets and a market share of 30.4% in total loans and 33.5% in total deposits. BCP has been leading the national financial system for more than 130 years. Throughout all this time BCP have contributed to the economic development of Perú, transforming plans into reality.

Pak Oman Investment

Pak Oman Investment Company Limited (POIC) is a Development Financial Institution (DFI) dedicated to providing corporate banking, SME Finance and investment banking services. The company's core objective is to foster economic growth in both Pakistan and Oman by facilitating industrial development and promoting agro-based industries on a commercial basis. Operating from its headquarters in Karachi, POIC extend its reach through a branch office in Lahore and representative offices in Islamabad, Gwadar, and Muscat. POIC's stable ratings are bolstered by its joint venture shareholding structure, with equal ownership by the Government of Pakistan (GoP) and the Sultanate of Oman.

Esquire Financing

Founded by Rajan Uttamchandani, EFI’s Chairman and CEO, Esquire Financing Inc. started its operations in 2011 and quickly became the trusted non-bank SME financing company in the Philippines. Our advocacy is to help MSMEs take their business to the next level by providing access to financing and sound advisory services for them to reach their full potential.
What separates us from our peers is our flexible loan terms with minimal documentary requirements and 3-days turnaround time. Understanding that each business owner has their own unique requirement, we tailor-fit our business loan based on cash flow analysis.

MonetaGo

MonetaGo is a provider of best-in-class fraud detection and prevention solutions. Its Secure Financing systems enables banks, traditional financiers, non-bank financial institutions, fintechs, and trade finance funds to check for duplication and authentication of financing requests linked to invoices, bills of lading, air waybills, warehouse receipts, purchase orders, and other trade-related documents. Since entering full production in 2018, Secure Financing has processed millions of transactions and has been integrated into Swift's API-enabled infrastructure as the first third-party service on Swift, providing its member institutions with an important tool to combat duplicate financing fraud in trade and supply chain finance. Secure Financing is available to all financiers globally via Swift, API, web-based UI and partners.

Cooperative Bank of Oromia

Cooperative Bank of Oromia is commercially licensed in October 2004 and commenced operations in March 2005. The bank’s formation was realized with majority of shareholders being the cooperative societies. Reluctance and low capacity of the formal financial institutions in the country to serve rural community, a demand-supply gap prevailed in financial market especially in rural areas, coupled with farmers’ awareness to be organized into cooperatives and the increasing need to finance cooperatives called for establishment of a cooperative bank. Furthermore, finance appeared to be the critical bottleneck to sustain the cooperative institutions and ultimately the farmers. It was all these glitches that initiated the inception and establishment of Cooperative Bank of Oromia. The Bank has broad ownership base and diversified ownership structure. It comprises Cooperatives and Non-Cooperative members. Cooperative member includes Primary Cooperatives, Cooperative Unions and Cooperatives Federation whereas, non-Cooperative members includes Organizations, Associations and individuals.

First Finance

First Finance is a registered financing institution established as a private joint-stock company and licensed by the Central Bank of Iraq. We provide financial services to targeted groups and owners of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in accordance with the best global practices followed in the microfinance industry. We employ financial inclusion to provide optimal solutions for the company's customers towards sustainable improvement of living conditions.

Scaling MSME Finance in Creative Industries
Alternative Financing
During our webinar on February 26th , our guest speakers highlight ed the immense potential of creative industries in driving economic growth, creating employment, and fostering innovation. They underscore d the financing challenges faced by this sector despite its potential and the need for tailored financial products, de-risking mechanisms, and collaborative efforts to unlock capital for creative SMEs. The discussion also emphasize d the importance of integrating creative industries into broader economic planning and policymaking to ensure sustainable growth...Read more
Beltone SMEs, a subsidiary of Beltone Holding, joins the SME Finance Forum
Financial Inclusion
Washington D.C, Feb 27, 2025 – Beltone SMEs , a subsidiary of Beltone Holding - has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest member. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum are SME financing experts operating in 190 countries who share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. "SME Finance Forum is delighted to welcome the distinguished subsidiary of Beltone Holding, It is with great pleasure I welcome Beltone SMEs to SME Finance Forum. Beltone SMEs's unwavering commitment to expanding its operations and supporting Egypt’s vibrant...Read more
Cenfri, a not-for-profit development consultancy and think tank that enhances the contribution of the financial sector and digital transformation to sustainable economic development, joins the SME Finance Forum
Washington D.C, Jan 10, 2025 – Cenfri , a global think-tank and not-for-profit enterprise with offices in South Africa and Rwanda has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest affiliate. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum are SME financing experts operating in 190 countries who share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. "SME Finance Forum proudly welcomes Cenfri, as this aligns with our strategy to deepen our engagement in emerging markets for impact," said Qamar Saleem, Head of SME Finance Forum. By facilitating better...Read more
Supply Chain Finance Innovation Hub - [Solutions Clinic]
Supply & Value Chain Finance
The Supply Chain Finance Innovation Hub develops a supportive and innovative community of SME finance professionals dedicated to expanding access to financing for SMEs through Supply Chain Financing solutions. The Community focuses on (i) supporting members in problem solving and achieving scale in SCF solutions through sharing of industry best practices, (ii) Synergizing expertise within the SCF Innovation Hub community while integrating industry level expertise, (iii) Supporting forward looking innovation, pilots, and content development. Just to recap, the topics we have covered so far are in earlier solutions clinics are: Date/Venue: Sept 16, 2024, Sao Paulo, Brazil (In person workshop...Read more
Information Session on Product Innovation, Global SME Finance Awards 2025
Digital Transformation
Global SME Finance Awards 2025 Information Session on Product Innovation Be recognized, Share impact in SME FINANCE The SME Finance Forum organizes the Global SME Finance Awards (The Awards) as a core part of its mission to create a unique platform for peer connections, knowledge dissemination, and innovations in SME Finance. The Forum’s extensive 240+ global network, crowds in financial institutions, fintech companies, development banks, policymakers, and industry experts from across the globe, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and partnership building on a global scale. Hence, th e Global SME Finance Awards has evolved into a pinnacle of global recognition for...Read more
Information Session on SME Financier of the Year, Global SME Finance Awards 2025
TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
Global SME Finance Awards 2025 Information Session on SME Financier of the Year Be recognized, Share impact in SME FINANCE The SME Finance Forum organizes the Global SME Finance Awards (The Awards) as a core part of its mission to create a unique platform for peer connections, knowledge dissemination, and innovations in SME Finance. The Forum’s extensive 240+ global network, crowds in financial institutions, fintech companies, development banks, policymakers, and industry experts from across the globe, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and partnership building on a global scale. Hence, th e Global SME Finance Awards has evolved into a pinnacle of...Read more
Public Webinar: Round Table on Credit Guarantee
Guarantees
INFO COMING SOON.. *The session and the speakers' information will be shared soonRead more
Women's Entrepreneurship Finance Innovation Hub [Solutions Clinic]
Gender Finance
The WEF hub is a member driven community that aims to translate shared lessons and experiences into practical knowledge that our diverse members can apply to better serve Women-SME’s. Focused on unique challenges and solutions for W-SMEs, our hub meetings encourage members to share deeper insights on practical topics, respective institutional approaches, and operations. We also facilitate open discussions for members to voluntarily share unique experiences and discuss solutions from diverse markets and regions. During our interactive sessions, members voluntarily discuss practical topics on offering financial solutions to W-SMEs, these include Product Design and Delivery, Business Development, Risk Management, Alternative...Read more
SME Finance Virtual Marketplace - Digital Lenders for Small Entrepreneurs
About our Virtual SME Marketplace Each month we are running sessions featuring leading small business lenders and SME growth facilitators who present their MSMEs offerings in a 7-minute pitch to an audience of potential financial institution clients and partners looking for impactful fintech solutions.     Through those sessions - run by the SME Finance Forum - we foster collaboration between financial institutions, fintech companies, development finance institutions and investors.     We have featured 150+ companies active in many different markets, attracted +2000 participants and generated many business leads, leading to investments, partnerships, and innovation advancement.   Topics: Digital lenders are increasingly recognizing the importance of supporting small entrepreneurs, who often face unique challenges in...Read more
Inaugural Information Session on Best Financier for Women Entrepreneurs, Global SME Finance Awards 2025
Sustainable Finance
BE RECOGNIZED, SHARE IMPACT IN SME FINANCE The SME Finance Forum organizes the Global SME Finance Awards (The Awards) as a core part of its mission to create a unique platform for peer connections, knowledge dissemination, and innovations in SME Finance. The Forum’s extensive 300+ global network, crowds in financial institutions, fintech companies, development banks, policymakers, and industry experts from across the globe, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and partnership building on a global scale. Hence, the Global SME Finance Awards has evolved into a pinnacle of global recognition for those making a real impact in the SME finance landscape. Since...Read more
Banco de Crédito del Perú, the largest bank and the largest supplier of integrated financial services in Perú, joins the SME Finance Forum
Washington D.C, Feb 17th, 2025 – Banco de Crédito del Perú , the largest bank and the largest supplier of integrated financial services in Perú has joined the SME Finance Forum as the global membership network’s latest member. The 300+ members/affiliates of the Forum are SME financing experts operating in 190 countries who share the common goal of expanding access to finance to small businesses worldwide through knowledge exchange and innovation. "SME Finance Forum is delighted to welcome Banco de Crédito del Perú (BCP), the largest bank and leading supplier of integrated financial services, which has been at the...Read more
CGAP Impact Pathways Platform
Financial Inclusion
About the Impact Pathfinder Welcome to the Impact Pathfinder, an evidence platform designed to shed light on the impact of financial inclusion on development. By leveraging existing research, this platform outlines pathways that show how financial services and products can contribute to key development outcomes, such as building resilience, promoting women's economic empowerment, creating job opportunities, and improving access to education and healthcare. What is the Impact Pathfinder? Watch this short video for a quick overview of how the Impact Pathfinder makes financial inclusion evidence easy to access and understand. Developed as part of CGAP's Financial Inclusion...Read more
Innovative Financing for Inclusive Credit Fintechs in Africa
Equity
Highlights • Inclusive credit fintech has the potential to address the estimated US$4.9 trillion global credit gap for micro and small enterprises (MSEs). • However, access to diverse and suitable funding sources remains a critical challenge, especially for early-stage fintechs that are not yet profitable. • This focus note explores financing strategies for inclusive credit fintechs in Africa, targeting underserved MSEs. It highlights recent data-driven innovations and relevant case studies. • It provides insights into the most crucial knowledge gaps that hinder effective strategy design for the international donor and impact investment community, which is eager to support the digital...Read more
How and why we finance SMEs
Digital Financial Services
BII sees opportunities for impact in firms of all sizes. Sole-traders, microenterprises, small, medium, and large firms are all sometimes unable to find the financing they need, to the detriment of society. The growth of firms is at the heart of development. Countries escape poverty as people move out of informal employment into wage-paying jobs at larger and more productive firms. There is a striking absence of large firms in many of the countries where BII invests. The lack of suitable finance is a well-known constraint on the growth of small and medium enterprises. The answer seems obvious: increase supply...Read more
Round Table - Leading Innovations in SME Finance: A Leadership Perspective
Digital Financial Services
Key Takeaways from the Round Table on Leading Innovations in SME Finance On December 16th, 2024, industry leaders convened for a round table session to discuss the latest trends and innovations in SME finance. This high-level gathering brought together experts who shared their insights on various innovative approaches in SME finance. Below are the main highlights from the session: Key Points Discussed 1. Digital Transformation. The significance of digital transformation in SME banking was a central theme. Speakers emphasized how digital tools and platforms are revolutionizing the way SMEs access financial services. 2. Customer-Centric Approaches. There was a strong focus...Read more
Financial Resilience for MSMEs: A Climate Risk Strategy for Banks, Cooperatives, and MFIs
Sustainable Finance
Webinar: Financial Resilience for MSMEs: Strategies for Climate Risk Management in the Financial Sector This event is organized by the V20 Sustainable Insurance Facility. During the webinar, the new "100 Banks Strategy" for Latin America and the Caribbean will be officially presented. This strategy is designed to develop solutions that bridge the insurance gap for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in climate-vulnerable economies. Discussion topics will include institutional challenges in developing credit products for MSMEs, the management of climate and credit risks, and adaptation strategies to strengthen the financial resilience of MSMEs. Invited panelists: • Lina María Toro –...Read more
Insurance Opportunities to Support Small Business Growth
SME Insurance
S ME Finance Forum // Berne Union – Joint webinar series (Introductory session) Background Insurance can bolster MSMEs’ resilience in the face of the risks and challenges they face, but, at present, in most developing countries, it does not sufficiently fulfil this role as those markets make up only about 20% of global premiums. Despite the considerable commercial opportunity to reach this largely untapped market , MSMEs are an heterogenous market that insurers generally struggle to distribute products to and gather data on. These challenges in turn significantly reduce both the willingness and the ability of insurers...Read more
Supply Chain Finance Innovation Hub - [Solutions Clinic]
FINANCING
The Supply Chain Finance Innovation Hub develops a supportive and innovative community of SME finance professionals dedicated to expanding access to financing for SMEs through Supply Chain Financing solutions. The Community focuses on (i) supporting members in problem solving and achieving scale in SCF solutions through sharing of industry best practices, (ii) Synergizing expertise within the SCF Innovation Hub community while integrating industry level expertise, (iii) Supporting forward looking innovation, pilots, and content development. Just to recap, the topics we have covered so far are in earlier solutions clinics are: Date/Venue: Sept 16, 2024, Sao Paulo, Brazil (In person workshop...Read more
Enhancing Long Term Finance for SMEs in Europe - COLLECTIVE INTELLIGENCE FROM OUR EXPERT GROUP
Alternative Financing
Guarantees
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY KEY ACTIONS AGREED BY THE EXPERT GROUP: shorted by importance and short term feasibility: Banking channel PUBLIC-PRIVATE SHARED INVESTMENT MODELS: Building on the success of initiatives like “France Relance,” this action advocates for collaborative investment strategies that engage both public and private sectors in financing bank-originated SME/Midcaps quasi-equity loans. Such partnerships are essential for creating a supportive ecosystem that promotes growth, ensuring these businesses can access the necessary capital while distributing risks effectively. 55% likely to be implemented in the short term according to the attendees. STANDARDIZATION OF PUBLIC GUARANTEES: EIB to inspire a “common framework” for SME...Read more
G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion: Action Plan for MSME Financing
Policy & Regulation
Summary The G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) Action Plan for Micro, Small, and Medium enterprises (MSME) Financing is a call to action to intensify the efforts of G20 and willing non-G20 countries to close the financing gap for MSMEs. MSMEs represent a significant share of economic activity and capture a large share of employment. However, MSMEs continue to have difficulties accessing finance. The credit gap for emerging market and developing economies (EMDEs) was estimated at $5.7 trillion in 2019, with the gap for Women-owned MSMEs representing 34% of this amount. Addressing this gap will not only support MSME...Read more
Agrifinance Innovation Hub - [Solutions Clinic]
Rural & Agriculture Finance
Agrifinance plays a very significant role in providing crucial access to capital for farmers and SME agribusinesses, allowing them to invest in necessary equipment, land, and seeds, enabling them to enhance their productivity, yields, and grow their operations and income. Due to the inherent uncertainties in agriculture, especially volatile weather patterns, unpredictable crop yields, unstable commodity prices, and access to input and output markets, which can considerably impact on the ability of farmers and agribusinesses to repay loans, creating the perception of a high-risk investment for lenders, particularly banks, compared to other sectors. This upcoming innovation hub on agrifinance, scheduled...Read more
Digital Finance Innovation Hub
Digital Financial Services
Digital Transformation
Fintech
Payments
The digital finance innovation hub gathers a group of 255 SME Finance experts, from 103 different institutions - among our members and affiliates with the contribution of IFC experts - to discuss how FIs and MSMEs are transforming rapidly through generative AI, data analytics and the power of the ever-growing SME Finance ecosystem. The Innovation hub is designed to address specific and evolving problems identified by its members. The hub leverages knowledge, expertise, and networks to solve those problems through: Solutions Clinic Hackathons and Tech-Sprints On-going virtual discussion groups (Private LinkedIn discussion group) and annual in-person roundtable...Read more
The ASEAN Access to Digital Finance Study
Digital Financial Services
Tania Ziegler (CCAF), Krishnamurthy Suresh (CCAF), Zhifu Xie (CCAF), Felipe Ferri de Camargo Paes (CCAF), Peter J Morgan (ADBI), Bryan Zhang (CCAF). This first edition of ‘The ASEAN Access to Digital Finance Study’, aims to provide valuable data and insights into how individual households, consumers, and micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) customers use digital alternative finance channels, such as online digital lending and capital raising platforms, to access credit or raise funds across the key countries in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region. The report focuses on five ASEAN countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand...Read more
The SME Access to Digital Finance Study: A Deep Dive into the Latin American Fintech Ecosystem
Digital Financial Services
Tania Ziegler (CCAF), Felipe Ferri de Camargo Paes (CCAF), Cecilia López Closs (CCAF), Erika Soki (CCAF), Diego Herrera (IDB), Jaime Sarmiento (IDB) This edition of ‘The SME Access to Finance: A Deep Dive into LATAM’s Fintech Ecosystem’ provides insights into micro, small and medium enterprises’ (MSMEs’) access to funding through the alternative finance industry in Latin America (LATAM). The study looks at key factors influencing MSMEs’ access to finance, such as business owner demographics and company structure, relationships with traditional finance, previous and current funding experiences with a financial technology (fintech) firm, and post-funding outcome. Highlights from the report The...Read more
MSME Access to Digital Finance Study: in Selected EMDE Countries in Asia
Digital Financial Services
By Krishnamurthy Suresh (Principal Researcher, CCAF), Felipe Ferri de Camargo Paes (Principal Researcher, CCAF), Loh Xiang Ru (CCAF), Richard Kithuka (CCAF), Peter Morgan (ADBI), Pavle Avramovic (CCAF), and Bryan Zhang (CCAF). This is the second edition of our ‘Access to Digital Finance’ study in Asia-Pacific. Building on our previous publication, the ‘ASEAN Access to Digital Finance’, the second edition explores the role of digital finance providers in enhancing access to credit and improving the financial health of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in selected emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs) in Asia. The research is based on the survey...Read more
Sustainable SME Finance Innovation Hub
Sustainable Finance
The Sustainable SME Finance hub focuses on the challenges and opportunities of extending green finance to the SME sector. Session cover all aspects of environmentally sustainable SME finance, including green finance, blue finance, and finance for climate change resilience. The community discusses innovative technologies for monitoring and verification, maps sources of DFI and government support for green finance, and showcases members’ work in terms of sustainable SME finance in practice. This group is a place for exchanging ideas, best practices, and innovative solutions in Sustainable SME Finance. Registration is open for members on the ...Read more
Increasing SME Access to Working Capital: E-invoicing and Digital Credit Infrastructure
Digital Financial Services
Welcome to our latest blog post where we delve into the fascinating world of SME banking. The adoption of e-invoicing is increasing rapidly, driven by the digitization of business processes and, in some markets, by government mandates.  Digital invoice repositories, whether third-party platforms or government-operated systems, are forming part of the essential Digital Public Infrastructure, that not only enhance business operations and tax compliance but also significantly improve access to finance for SMEs. During our webinar on December 5 th , our guest speakers discussed the intersection of credit infrastructure and digital invoicing for SMEs and highlighted the transformative potential...Read more
SME Finance Marketplace - Focus on Non-Financial Services Platforms
Non Financial Services
How Non-Financial Services are Empowering SMEs NFS platforms and Commercial Bank Partnership Welcome to our latest blog post where we delve into the fascinating world of SME banking. During our latest SME Finance Marketplace on January 22, we invited three NFS platforms: International Trade Center, Strands, and Silver Lining to talk about the services they offer to SMEs, from business management tools to networking, education and access to markets and how they partner with banks to roll those out. Non-financial services are becoming increasingly important for small businesses (SMEs) as they face a variety of challenges, including limited access to...Read more
Open Webinar: Improving Access to Finance in Agriculture Through Warehouse Receipts
Improving Access to Finance in Agriculture Through Warehouse Receipts Join us for an insightful discussion on the critical issue of access to finance in agriculture. Access to finance remains amongst the top constraints to agricultural growth, keeping farmers from investing to improve productivity and getting out of poverty. Less than 3% of credit from formal financial institutions in emerging markets goes to agriculture, making most farmers depend on informal credit to finance their operations, often at very high cost and lack of transparency. One of the main challenges that constrain credit from flowing to agriculture is the lack of collateral...Read more
Visa Case Study w/Uplinq - "Transforming global small business underwriting with augmented data"
Data Analytics
Uplinq is thrilled to unveil our latest collaboration with Visa . Together, we’ve released a groundbreaking case study titled "Transforming global small business underwriting with augmented data" —a deep dive into how AI-powered credit decisioning is reshaping small business lending worldwide. Leveraging sophisticated AI and machine learning models to augment existing underwriting processes, the case study found that Uplinq helps FIs approve more loans while driving significant time and cost savings. Key data in the case study reveals that on average, Financial Institutions using Uplinq’s technology have seen a: • 50% reduction in underwriting operating costs • 15x reduction in...Read more
Immersion Program - Akbank
Sustainable Finance
On 12 - 13 March 2025 , the SME Finance Forum is organizing an immersion program in Istanbul, Türkiye. The event is hosted by Akbank . Join our two-day Immersion program to discover how Akbank , a private commercial bank in Istanbul, is revolutionizing the banking industry. The two-day Immersion program will provide members gain exclusive access to AKBank’s expertise in investment banking, learning how the institution supports transformative projects and sustainable economic growth through innovative financing models. You’ll also dive into AKBank’s credit analytics and underwriting frameworks, which leverage advanced data insights to optimize risk management...Read more
Impact Stories: Cascade Develops Asset-Based Lending Platform to Increase Accuracy, Efficiency, and Transparency
Sustainable Finance
In today’s fast-paced financial landscape, loan originators need asset-based financing from institutional investors to grow their portfolios. However, the traditional fundraising process and ongoing tasks associated with managing debt facilities are operationally intensive, error-prone, and slow. Cascade set out to change that by developing an Asset-Based Credit Diligence and Risk Mitigation platform, transforming how Originators handle data validation and analysis, bringing much-needed transparency and speed to the industry. Innovation in Asset-Based Finance Traditional processes in asset-based finance have often relied on labor-intensive manual data verification, which can be both time-consuming and...Read more
11th Annual Supply Chain Finance Summit
Supply & Value Chain Finance
The supply chain finance industry is evolving rapidly, driven by factors such as trade policy uncertainties and the need for Supply Chain Finance (SCF) solutions in a changing trade landscape. Efforts are underway to support SMEs through SCF, simplify processes, and increase awareness. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations are gaining importance, with stakeholders agreeing on sustainability KPIs. Regulatory challenges, digitisation of international trade, technological innovations like AI and cloud technology, and collaborative approaches are shaping the industry’s future, indicating a dynamic and transformative landscape. The BCR will hold its Annual Supply Chain Finance Summit on January 29th and 30th...Read more
Supporting SMEs within the Financial Supply Chain through Factoring & SCF
Supply & Value Chain Finance
Event Overview Event Name: Supporting SMEs within the Financial Supply Chain through Factoring & SCF Dates: 25-26 February 2025 Location: Coral Gables, Miami, USA Organizers: FCI and the Financial & International Business Association (FIBA) Join the conference on "Supporting SMEs within the Financial Supply Chain through Factoring & SCF," hosted by FCI and the Financial & International Business Association (FIBA) on 25-26 February in Coral Gables, Miami. Experts in supply chain finance and factoring will come together to discuss the latest trends and developments in the industry. The first day will include a legal workshop that provides insights into regulations...Read more
Digital Finance Developments: International AI Policy Focuses on Safety
Data & Cybersecurity
Fintech
"International AI Policy Focuses on Safety" discusses the increasing global emphasis on ensuring the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI). Key points and main ideas include: International Collaboration on AI Safety: Governments and international organizations are recognizing the need for harmonized approaches to AI safety, leading to increased international collaboration and the establishment of AI safety institutes (AISIs). Role of AI Safety Institutes (AISIs): AISIs are becoming crucial in harmonizing safety standards and building consensus on what constitutes safe AI. These institutes serve as resource centers, conduct technical evaluations, and facilitate dialogue between governments and industries. Formation of...Read more
Scaling MSME Finance in Creative Industries
Creative Industries (CI) use culture and creativity as the main inputs to produce functional outputs with commercial value. They have a multidimensional development impact and directly contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals. The global Creative Industries sector generates nearly $2.25 trillion/year (UNESCO) and represent up to 2-7% of GDP where they are most developed and provides employment to 29.5 million people globally, especially for youth and women (largest global industry employing youth). Creator economy is the driver of a new generation of innovators, redefining industries like fashion, finance, technology, entertainment, food, wellness, social good. Topics: The webinar...Read more