Family Bank and EIB Global launch a €100M facility to empower women and youth entrepreneurs in Kenya, advancing inclusive growth and sustainable enterprise.
The financing structure entails EIB Global providing a €50 million credit line, with Family Bank matching this amount, culminating in a total of €100 million dedicated to Kenyan SMEs and mid-sized companies. A minimum of 50% of these funds is earmarked for businesses owned or led by women, while at least 30% will support youth entrepreneurs. The focus sectors include agriculture and trade, which are pivotal to Kenya's economic landscape.
Family Bank and EIB Global unveil €100M credit facility to boost women- and youth-led enterprises in Kenya, targeting agriculture and trade sectors.
Nairobi, Kenya – May 12, 2025 In a strategic move to deepen inclusive economic growth, Family Bank Kenya and EIB Global—the development arm of the European Investment Bank—have announced a €100 million (approx. KSh14.7 billion) credit facility. The initiative targets women-led businesses and youth-run enterprises in Kenya’s vibrant but underfunded SME sector.
Unveiled during the EU-Kenya Business Forum, the deal reaffirms the European Union’s role in empowering Africa’s private sector through capital, policy, and partnerships.
💶 Credit Design: €100M for Underserved SME Segments
The financing structure comprises:
€50 million from EIB Global
€50 million from Family Bank
Together, this creates a robust €100 million pool aimed at supporting:
Women-led or women-owned businesses (50%)
Youth-driven enterprises (30%)
High-impact sectors: agriculture, trade, and value chain development
“SMEs account for over 80% of our customer base,” said Nancy Njau, CEO of Family Bank. “This partnership reinforces our 2025–2029 strategy to grow SME lending and deliver impact where it matters most.”
🌍 EIB Global: Driving Growth, Inclusion, and Jobs
Thomas Östros, Vice President of the EIB, emphasized that the facility is not only about financing, but about unlocking livelihoods.
“Injecting capital into Kenya’s private sector is vital to stimulating jobs, improving livelihoods, and fostering innovation. Investing in women and youth is not just just—it’s smart.”
This deal supports EIB Global’s mission to scale sustainable development finance in Africa, in line with the EU’s broader investment agenda.
👩🏾💼 Beyond Money: Technical Support and Gender Strategy
In addition to the €100 million credit, the partnership includes:
Technical assistance to refine Family Bank’s gender-lens finance strategy
Expansion of women-focused lending products
Advisory support to pursue 2X Challenge certification
These efforts ensure the facility meets international impact standards—not just capital deployment.
This partnership between Family Bank and EIB Global represents a turning point in democratizing finance for Kenya’s entrepreneurs. With its blend of capital, technical support, and a gender-forward agenda, the €100 million facility will drive jobs, equity, and enterprise across the country.
As the SME landscape matures, this model—backed by international partnerships and local banks—offers a roadmap for inclusive prosperity in East Africa and beyond.
