This marks SIFEM’s first investment in Bangladesh, a Least Developed Country (LDC) and one of the priority countries in the Swiss International Cooperation Strategy. The loan is partially allocated to products that support women-led MSMEs, which traditionally face significant barriers in accessing financial services. Another portion of the loan will fund climate mitigation projects in a country severely affected by climate risk and align with the objectives and timeline of SDC’s Access to Green Financing for Enterprises program, launched in November 2023. This program promotes green financing and enhances the capacity of SMEs to develop and deliver low-carbon, climate-resilient solutions, thereby improving environmental performance.

Through this investment, SIFEM reaffirms its commitment to job creation, gender equality, and climate change mitigation. In Bangladesh, SMEs represent 99% of businesses and account for 70-80% of employment outside the agricultural sector. This investment will support the bank’s efforts to significantly expand its services to this segment.

Picture: BD Creation is one of Mutual Trust Bank’s customers. BD Creation is a leading handicraft manufacturer and exporter in Bangladesh, with a vision to create job opportunities. It focuses on eco-friendly products and has been recognized with the National Export Trophy and CIP status for its contributions to the economy and the handicrafts sector.