Cameroon | EU boosts SME financing with new credit scheme

Yaoundé and Brussels have unveiled a groundbreaking financial initiative on July 15, 2026, designed to enhance access to bank credit for Cameroonian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The scheme, part of the Economic Development Support Project through Value Chain Promotion and Private Sector Initiatives (PAD-CV), aims to unlock up to 30 billion Central African CFA francs in local bank loans. This ambitious goal will be achieved through a €6 billion financial facility, complemented by a €9.8 billion program budget. Crucially, the €6 billion guarantee will not be distributed directly to businesses. Instead, it will serve as collateral for banks issuing loans to project holders. The remaining funds will support technical assistance and capacity-building for entrepreneurs.

To participate, businesses must respond to the call for projects launched on July 15 via the platform www.padcv-cm.net. The application window remains open for three months. Successful applicants will undergo a rigorous evaluation process, followed by tailored technical support and business plan development assistance. The ultimate aim is to prepare projects that meet stringent banking requirements, ensuring they are financially viable and attractive to lenders.

The initiative targets a broad spectrum of businesses, including micro-enterprises, SMEs, startups, cooperatives, common initiative groups (GICs), producer organizations, digital clusters, and incubators. Special emphasis will be placed on ventures led by women and young entrepreneurs, fostering inclusive economic growth.