The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) have launched the SME National Champions programme, partnering with local financial institutions – including Egypt’s Export Development Bank (EBank) – to accelerate the growth of high-potential small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The SME National Champions programme aims to empower Egypt’s most promising SMEs, supporting them with training, mentoring and opportunities to network with other non-financial service firms. Selected businesses will also receive personalised consulting and specialist capacity-building support tailored to their individual needs and objectives.
The programme began with a masterclass for members of EBank’s recently launched Export Club – a networking platform where EBank clients can share knowledge and access services with the ultimate goal of boosting their export capacity. Entitled “A Strategic Gateway to Saudi Arabian Market Success”, the session provided SMEs with practical insights and tools for entering the Saudi Arabian market and growing their businesses.
The SME National Champions programme is part of a broader collaboration between the EBRD and EBank aimed at expanding the financial and non-financial services that EBank provides to its exporting clients and enhancing the value proposition of its Export Club.
The EBRD will facilitate one-to-one business consulting by matching selected Export Club members with local and international consultants to help overcome barriers to export growth. In addition, members will gain access to masterclasses, training sessions led by industry experts and targeted content – all designed to equip them with the essential skills and best practices they need for success in new markets. This comprehensive support will help EBank to expand its non-financial offering and grow its Export Club in alignment with its own goals.
SMEs play a crucial role in Egypt’s economy, driving innovation, productivity and job creation. By joining forces with key partner financial institutions, the EBRD is aiming to enhance the SME sector’s competitiveness and its contributions to sustainable economic growth.
Egypt is a founding member of the EBRD. Since the start of its operations there in 2012, the Bank has invested more than €13.8 billion in the country through 198 projects.
