• EU, EBRD launch €26.5 million financing facility in Côte d’Ivoire
• Program targets SMEs with loans, co-financing and technical support
• Initiative aims to boost jobs and support green, digital transition

The European Union and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development announced on Wednesday the launch of the Côte d’Ivoire Financing Facility. The facility has a total capacity of up to €26.5 million ($30.5 million) and aims to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.

The initiative is part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy and seeks to improve access to finance for Ivorian businesses while supporting job creation and sustainable private sector development.

A Blended Financing and Technical Support Facility

Under the programme, the EBRD plans to provide €20 million in loans to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, with an additional €4 million in co-financing expected from partner banks. The EU will provide €2.5 million in technical assistance to strengthen business capabilities, particularly in corporate social responsibility, investment project structuring and loan application preparation.

“By combining financing, technical assistance and non-financial support, this programme aims to strengthen long-term access to finance for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in Côte d’Ivoire, while accelerating their green, digital and inclusive transition,” said Francis Malige, managing director for financial institutions at the EBRD.

In Côte d’Ivoire, small and medium-sized enterprises accounted for nearly 23% of both GDP and formal employment in 2021, according to official data. Several initiatives have been introduced to further support the sector, including the Economic Programme for Business Innovation and Transformation (PEPITE), launched in 2022. The Côte d’Ivoire SME Agency supported 12,767 businesses in 2024, highlighting the growing role of these enterprises in national economic growth and diversification.

The new facility is expected to benefit around 700 businesses, with nearly 100 gaining access to loans. It is also set to support the priorities of Côte d’Ivoire’s National Development Plan for 2026-2030, including private sector development, the green and digital transition, and job creation.

Charlène N’dimon