Catalyzing SME Champions

Significant volumes of DFI-backed financing are being mobilized to support SME growth across emerging markets, reflecting a strong commitment to the sector. However, translating this capital into tangible, on-the-ground impact remains an ongoing challenge. Measurement frameworks such as attribution, job creation and enterprise resilience can be harder to track. In some cases, product design is better suited to more formalized borrowers, leaving portions of the SME segment less well served. Additionally, the effectiveness of well-capitalized facilities can depend on the strength of last-mile delivery mechanisms that connect these instruments to SMEs.

This session brings SME finance stakeholders into direct dialogue with DFIs and other institutions shaping these solutions, creating space for a candid and constructive exchange. Together, the discussion will explore how to better align institutional approaches with the evolving needs of SMEs—ensuring we create SME champions in countries to create a demonstration impact thus the job creation by SMEs can be scaled and sustained.