Top International Banks That Offer Loans to Small Businesses in Africa

Global Support for African Entrepreneurs and SMEs

Access to capital remains one of the biggest challenges for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Africa. But in recent years, several international banks and financial institutions have expanded their services to support African entrepreneurs with loans, grants, and business support.

In 2025, if you’re running a small business in Africa and looking for funding, the good news is — you don’t have to depend only on local banks. There are reputable international banks and development finance institutions (DFIs) offering business loans tailored to the African market.

Why International Banks Are Funding African SMEs

• Africa has the fastest-growing population of entrepreneurs

• High demand for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs)

• Huge potential in agriculture, fintech, energy, logistics, fashion, and health sectors

• The need to close the $330 billion SME financing gap (World Bank estimate)

Top International Banks and DFIs Giving Loans to African SMEs

1. International Finance Corporation (IFC – World Bank Group)

• Who They Support: SMEs, fintech startups, agribusinesses, manufacturing, green energy

• Loan Type: Direct loans and through local partner banks

• Countries: Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, and more

• Loan Amount: Ranges from $50,000 to several million dollars

Bonus: Offers technical support and business training

2. African Development Bank (AfDB) – via Affirmative Finance Action for Women in Africa (AFAWA)

• Target: Women-led SMEs

• Support: Loans, grants, and capacity-building

• Partnerships: Works with banks across Africa to channel funds

• Loan Type: SME growth loans, working capital, asset financing

Bonus: Easier access to credit for women entrepreneurs

3. Proparco (France – Part of AFD Group)

• Focus: Sustainable businesses and startups in Africa

• Loan Type: Equity investments, long-term SME loans via local partners

• Sectors: Health, education, energy, agriculture, finance

• Countries: Francophone and Anglophone Africa

Bonus: Strong support for green and impact-focused businesses

4. European Investment Bank (EIB) – Africa SME Facility

• Support: Funding small businesses through African partner banks and microfinance institutions

• Loan Type: Indirect loans and technical assistance

• Focus Areas: Green businesses, youth employment, women-led SMEs

• Loan Range: Varies depending on intermediary bank

Bonus: Also supports early-stage tech and innovation hubs

5. Standard Chartered Bank – Africa Trade and SME Loans

• Countries Active In: Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Zambia, Uganda, and more

• Loan Type: Business overdrafts, invoice financing, trade loans

• Special Offers: Digital loan applications for SMEs with minimal paperwork

Bonus: International bank with local presence for faster approvals

6. United States Development Finance Corporation (DFC)

• Focus: Private-sector development in emerging markets

• Loan Size: $100,000 – $1 million+ (often in partnership with local banks or accelerators)

• Support: Infrastructure, clean energy, agriculture, financial inclusion

Bonus: Favorable loan terms and backing for diaspora-owned African businesses

7. Ecobank – Partner of Global Funders (IFC, EIB, DFC)

• Though headquartered in Togo, Ecobank is funded by many international partners

• Offers: SME loans, digital banking, trade finance

• Loan Amounts: From GHS 5,000 or $1,000 and up, depending on location

Bonus: Operates in over 30 African countries with international capital support

How to Qualify for International SME Loans

To increase your chances:

• Register your business with proper documentation (TIN, certificate, etc.)

• Have a solid business plan and cash flow records

• Keep clean credit history (local or mobile money loans matter too!)

• Be in a high-impact sector (tech, agri, green, women/youth-owned, etc.)

• Work with banks that are internationally funded or partnered with DFIs

Final Tips

Summary: Best International Funders for African Small Businesses