The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has launched a new support programme for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Senegal, aiming to strengthen private-sector growth, improve access to finance, and help businesses expand into new markets.
The initiative follows the opening of the EBRD’s first resident office in Senegal’s capital, Dakar. During the launch event, the Bank outlined its strategy for supporting the country’s private sector and discussed the challenges and opportunities facing SMEs with representatives from government, financial institutions, business associations, development partners, and local companies.
SMEs play a key role in creating jobs, supporting entrepreneurship, and driving local economic development in Senegal. However, many businesses continue to face barriers such as limited access to finance, a lack of technical expertise, and difficulties entering new markets. The EBRD highlighted that financial support alone is not enough and that businesses also need practical advisory services to improve competitiveness and long-term growth.
Through the new programme, the EBRD will provide an integrated package of financing, business advisory support, and policy engagement tailored to the needs of Senegalese SMEs. The approach aims to improve business performance, strengthen company management, increase access to investment, and support sustainable economic development.
The Bank’s financing solutions will include credit lines through partner financial institutions, risk-sharing mechanisms for micro and small businesses, support for medium-sized enterprises, and supply chain finance solutions to help companies improve liquidity and participate more effectively in local and international value chains.
Senegal became an EBRD shareholder and country of operation in 2025, marking a new phase of cooperation focused on private-sector development, stronger institutions, and inclusive economic growth. The EBRD’s presence in Dakar will allow closer engagement with businesses and help SMEs improve productivity, adopt new technologies, strengthen governance, enhance climate resilience, and access regional and global markets.
In addition to direct business support, the EBRD will work with Senegalese authorities to improve the policy environment for SMEs by encouraging innovation, increasing competitiveness, and supporting job creation across the economy.
The programme represents a major step in expanding opportunities for Senegal’s businesses and strengthening the foundations for sustainable private-sector-led growth.
