Orange Bank Africa, a fully digital bank headquartered in Abidjan, has formalized two groundbreaking partnership agreements with Côte d’Ivoire’s Société de Garantie des Crédits aux PME (SGPME)—an institution established by the Ivorian government to bolster financing for small and medium-sized enterprises. The agreements, signed on July 23, 2026, are set to unlock up to 17 billion FCFA in funding for local businesses, with a dedicated 4 billion FCFA earmarked exclusively for women-led ventures.
Breaking barriers in financing for Ivorian enterprises
Audrey Koffi, CEO of Orange Bank Africa, emphasized the critical role these partnerships play in addressing a persistent challenge: access to capital. “Many entrepreneurs in Côte d’Ivoire excel in innovation and market reach, yet their biggest hurdle remains securing financial resources,” she noted during the signing ceremony. “Through these agreements, we’re not just providing credit lines—we’re prioritizing female entrepreneurs who have historically faced greater obstacles in obtaining loans.”
Orange Bank Africa disburses approximately 20 billion FCFA in loans monthly, a testament to its commitment to digital financial inclusion. The new collaboration with SGPME will amplify this impact by offering women entrepreneurs credit facilities worth 4 billion FCFA, with SGPME guaranteeing up to 70% of the risk—a move designed to significantly reduce collateral requirements.
SGPME’s role in reducing financing gaps
Joëlle Kouassi, CEO of SGPME, highlighted the partnership’s broader goal: bridging the financing divide for Ivorian businesses. “Traditionally, banks demand substantial guarantees from SMEs, which many cannot meet,” she explained. “Our collaboration ensures that SGPME covers at least 50%—and up to 70%—of the credit risk, making it far easier for enterprises to secure loans.”
Kouassi added that while the 17 billion FCFA infusion won’t solve all financing gaps, it marks a meaningful step toward leveling the playing field. “The real impact lies in empowering businesses that drive Côte d’Ivoire’s economy—especially those led by women,” she stated.
A milestone for digital banking in West Africa
This partnership coincides with Orange Bank Africa’s sixth anniversary, celebrating its mission to democratize financial services across West Africa. As a 100% digital institution, the bank leverages technology to expand access to banking for underserved populations, fostering economic resilience and inclusion.
