Orange Bank Africa and SGPME join forces to unlock 17 billion FCFA for Ivorian SMEs
Abidjan witnessed a landmark agreement on July 23, 2026, as Orange Bank Africa, the digital-first financial institution, formalized two strategic partnerships with the Société de Garantie des Crédits aux PME (SGPME). The collaboration aims to channel up to 17 billion FCFA in financing toward small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), micro-enterprises (TPEs), and mid-sized firms (ETIs) across Côte d’Ivoire. Notably, 4 billion FCFA is earmarked exclusively for female entrepreneurs, reinforcing the nation’s push for gender-inclusive economic growth.
Breaking barriers to credit access
Addressing the core challenge faced by Ivorian businesses, Audrey Koffi, Chief Executive Officer of Orange Bank Africa, highlighted the critical role of accessible financing in driving economic progress. Speaking at the signing ceremony, she emphasized, “Many enterprises here struggle not with market demand or innovative ideas, but with the fundamental hurdle of securing capital. This partnership with SGPME directly tackles that gap.”
Under the new agreements, Orange Bank Africa will provide credit lines tailored to women-led ventures, with the SGPME guaranteeing up to 70% of the loans. “We disburse nearly 20 billion FCFA in credit monthly,” Koffi noted, adding that this initiative will enable broader participation of women in the formal economy. “With 4 billion FCFA dedicated to female entrepreneurs, we’re not just expanding access—we’re building an ecosystem where women can thrive as business leaders.”
SGPME’s role in fostering financial inclusion
Joëlle Kouassi, CEO of the SGPME, underscored the transformative potential of the partnerships. “Traditionally, SMEs face steep collateral demands from banks. Our mandate is to reduce this burden by sharing the credit risk with financial institutions.” The SGPME will guarantee a minimum of 50%—and up to 70%—of the loans, mitigating the risks for lenders while unlocking capital for entrepreneurs.
Kouassi added, “While 17 billion FCFA won’t resolve all financing gaps, it’s a pivotal step forward. Our goal is to shrink the divide in credit accessibility, ensuring that no viable business is left behind due to lack of funds.”
Digital banking as a catalyst for growth
Established six years ago on July 23, 2026, Orange Bank Africa has been a pioneer in democratizing financial services across West Africa. By leveraging digital platforms, the bank has facilitated seamless transactions and broadened financial inclusion for millions. The partnerships with SGPME align with this vision, positioning digital banking as a key enabler for SME development and economic resilience.
Through these initiatives, Côte d’Ivoire is taking bold strides toward a more inclusive and dynamic business landscape, where innovation and access to capital go hand in hand.
