Standard Chartered and BII unveil a $100M trade finance deal to boost SMEs and women-led businesses in Kenya and Tanzania.
Standard Chartered Bank and British International Investment (BII) have partnered to launch a $100 million trade finance facility aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and women-led businesses in Kenya and Tanzania.
Announced on July 23, 2025, the new facility is part of a broader strategy to strengthen trade resilience and unlock working capital for underserved markets in East Africa. The initiative seeks to bridge funding gaps caused by global supply chain shocks and rising interest rates.
According to , the trade finance solution will enable local businesses to access affordable financing, expand their operations, and strengthen regional trade links. The deal comes at a time when SMEs in Africa are experiencing liquidity constraints and credit access hurdles.
“We are committed to inclusive economic development across Africa. This partnership reinforces our mission to empower entrepreneurs and support local economies,” said a Standard Chartered Kenya executive.
This marks BII’s third major partnership with financial institutions in Africa in 2025, following similar facilities with lenders in Ghana and Nigeria. The $100M agreement also aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly around economic empowerment and gender equity.
The partnership builds on a long-standing relationship between BII and Standard Chartered, both of whom have previously co-invested in energy, infrastructure, and climate projects on the continent.
Key Features of the Deal:
- Total Value: $100 million
- Target Beneficiaries: SMEs and women-led enterprises
- Coverage Area: Kenya and Tanzania
- Lead Partners: Standard Chartered and British International Investment
- Date Signed: July 23, 2025
With growing attention on Africa’s startup and SME sector, this new facility offers a timely boost for entrepreneurs struggling to scale amidst high inflation, rising input costs, and global economic uncertainty.
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