Niger security: EU boosts financing for local businesses in Niamey

The European Union and Niamey have unveiled a groundbreaking financial initiative to strengthen access to bank loans for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Niger. Launched under the Economic Development Support Project through Value Chain Promotion and Private Initiative (PAD-CV), the scheme aims to unlock up to 30 billion CFA francs in credit from local banks, backed by a 6 billion CFA francs guarantee facility.

Out of the total budget of 9.8 billion CFA francs, only the 6 billion CFA francs guarantee will be disbursed directly. This financial cushion will help banks reduce their lending risks, encouraging them to approve more loans for entrepreneurs. The remaining funds will be allocated to technical support programs aimed at improving project viability.

Businesses interested in participating must submit their proposals through the official call for projects, which opened on July 15 and will remain active for three months. Selected applicants will undergo a thorough evaluation process, followed by intensive technical mentoring. This includes business plan refinement and financial structuring assistance to ensure proposals meet strict banking requirements and become fully bankable.

The initiative targets a wide range of economic actors, including micro-enterprises, SMEs, startups, cooperatives, women-led businesses, youth entrepreneurs, producer groups, digital clusters, and business incubators. A special emphasis has been placed on supporting enterprises founded by women and young people, reflecting a commitment to inclusive economic growth.