EBRD launches SME support package in Benin to boost private-sector growth
Initiative will strengthen cooperation with banks, business associations and the wider private-sector ecosystem
COTONOU, September 10, 2026 — The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development [EBRD] has launched a support package for small and medium-sized enterprises [SMEs] in Benin aimed at strengthening private-sector-led growth.
The package introduces SMEs, financial institutions, donors and other private-sector stakeholders in Benin to the EBRD’s advisory and financing solutions designed to help businesses become more competitive, investment-ready and resilient.
To mark the launch, the EBRD convened more than 100 representatives of Benin’s private-sector ecosystem in Cotonou, including SMEs and mid-cap companies, commercial banks, business associations, chambers of commerce, investment organisations, corporates, development finance institutions and public agencies.
The event provided an opportunity for businesses and partners to learn more about the EBRD’s SME support package and identify potential areas of cooperation.
Under the package, the EBRD’s advisory programmes will connect SMEs in Benin with local and international expertise to help them address business challenges, improve performance and pursue new growth opportunities.
The advisory support will also advance the Bank’s priorities on inclusion, digitalisation and the green transition by supporting women- and youth-led businesses, helping SMEs adopt digital technologies and improve their competitiveness, and enabling companies to become more energy- and resource-efficient and adopt greener business models.
Companies in Benin will also be able to benefit from the EBRD’s flagship Blue Ribbon programme, which provides tailored advisory and financing support to high-potential companies, as well as the Star Venture programme, which supports innovative, high-growth start-ups.
Alongside advisory services, the EBRD will work with financial institutions and corporates to expand financing opportunities for Beninese businesses.
In addition to its core intermediated finance activities, the Bank’s SME finance offering includes its Risk Sharing Facility, through which it shares risk with partner financial institutions on individual loans to local companies, and its Supply Chain Solutions Framework, which is designed to expand access to working-capital finance across corporate supply chains.
Dasha Dougans, EBRD Head of Benin, said supporting private-sector growth and innovation was a key priority for the Bank in the country.
“By expanding access to finance and tailored business advice, we can help SMEs realise their potential to grow, innovate and create jobs,” Dougans said.
“A strong and competitive SME sector is essential to building a dynamic and inclusive economy, creating new opportunities for ambitious business owners and contributing to Benin’s long-term sustainable growth.”
Benin became an EBRD shareholder in 2024 and a country of operation in July 2025.
The EBRD’s priorities in Benin include developing sustainable infrastructure, modernising companies and strengthening economic institutions.
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