It is extremely difficult for small businessmen and women entrepreneurs in developing countries and Eastern Europe to obtain the necessary capital to maintain their company or to expand it. Management experience, efficient planning and, not least, security for the issuers of loans are all too often lacking in companies. The banks are afraid of the high cost of assessing and processing loans. Innovative commitment is needed , to ensure that our partners are given a chance to develop their businesses further.

Supported by Swiss bank experts, Swisscontact promotes access for SMEs to savings and loan facilities by:

• Training opportunities for saving and credit institutions and other bank organizations

• Training opportunities for bank employees concerning financing for SMEs

• The organization of small businesses into savings groups in order to provide joint warranty for bank credit

• Guarantee systems