Côte d’Ivoire: 17 billion FCFA boost for small businesses via digital banking partnership

Digital banking and state-backed guarantees unlock 17 billion FCFA for Ivorian SMEs

In a landmark move to energize Côte d’Ivoire’s economic backbone, Orange Bank Africa has joined forces with the Société de Garantie des Crédits aux Petites et Moyennes Entreprises (SGPME)—a state-backed initiative—to mobilize up to 17 billion FCFA in financing for local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The partnership, formalized in Abidjan on July 23, 2026, targets all segments of the Ivorian business ecosystem, with a special focus on women-led enterprises, earmarking 4 billion FCFA exclusively for female entrepreneurs.

Audrey Koffi, CEO of Orange Bank Africa, emphasized the critical role of accessible financing in driving economic growth. “The biggest hurdle for most businesses isn’t market demand or innovation—it’s securing the capital they need to thrive,” she stated during the agreement signing. “That’s why we’ve teamed up with SGPME: to create pathways that turn ambition into action, especially for women who are reshaping Côte d’Ivoire’s economic landscape.”

Highlighting the bank’s commitment to digital inclusion, Koffi noted that Orange Bank Africa disburses approximately 20 billion FCFA in loans monthly, with the new partnership set to channel 4 billion FCFA toward female entrepreneurs. A standout feature of this collaboration is the 70% credit guarantee provided by SGPME, drastically reducing the risk for lenders and empowering businesses with previously unattainable funding options.

Breaking barriers for women in business

Women in Côte d’Ivoire are increasingly at the helm of startups and SMEs, yet systemic challenges in financing persist. The new credit lines aim to close this gap by offering dedicated resources and streamlined processes. “We’re not just providing capital—we’re building an ecosystem where women can scale their ventures without the traditional barriers,” Koffi added.

How the guarantee system works

Joëlle Kouassi, CEO of SGPME, explained the mechanics behind the partnership: “When a business approaches a bank for funding, collateral is often the stumbling block. Our role is to step in as a guarantor, sharing the credit risk with the lender. Under this agreement, SGPME guarantees a minimum of 50% up to 70% of each loan, making it far easier for SMEs to qualify.”

“While 17 billion FCFA won’t solve every financing need in the market, it’s a tangible step toward bridging the divide,” Kouassi remarked. “Our mission—backed by the Ivorian government—is to ensure no viable business is left behind due to lack of access to funds.”

Digital banking as a growth catalyst

Orange Bank Africa, celebrating its sixth anniversary as a 100% digital institution, has made financial inclusion a cornerstone of its strategy. By leveraging technology, the bank aims to democratize banking services across West Africa, removing geographic and bureaucratic constraints. “Digital finance isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of economic empowerment,” Koffi asserted.

This partnership underscores a broader trend in Côte d’Ivoire: leveraging public-private collaborations to fuel sustainable development. With multilateral support in the mix, the initiative reflects a multi-layered approach to economic resilience, positioning SMEs—not just as contributors, but as drivers—of the country’s growth story.