EIB, Family Bank to raise Sh14.7bn for businesses led by women, youth

Enterprise
By Esther Dianah | May 14, 2025

European Investment Bank Team Leader Guillermo Bosse (left) flanked by Family Bank CEO Rebecca Mbithi, during the Value Add training for SMEs for Family Bank Business in Nairobi. [David Njaaga,Standard]

The European Investment Bank’s development arm (EIB Global) and Family Bank are mobilising Sh14.7 billion (Euros 100 million) to finance women-owned and led businesses, and youth entrepreneurs in the country.

Each of the institutions will contribute Sh7.35 billion (Euros 50 million). “EIB Global is providing  Euros 50 million credit line to Family Bank, which will match the sum in an agreement to expand loans for Kenyan small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Mid-Caps,” noted a statement from the bank.

="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/amp/business/business/article/2001518835/eus-chamber-of-commerce-to-up-trade-relations-with-kenya">The financing

At least 50 per cent of the financing will target businesses owned or run by women while another minimum of 30 per cent will be extended to youth entrepreneurs.  “SMEs represent over 80 per cent of our customer base. As a result of our growth efforts, our market revenue from this segment continues to increase, further underscoring the sector’s strong growth potential,” said Family Bank chief executive Nancy Njau.

“This partnership enables us to better address the specific needs of SMEs across various value chains for sustainable growth and long-term value.”

="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article/2001482280/lender-unveils-sh50-billion-kitty-for-women-to-drive-financial-inclusion">In addition to the< credit line, EIB Global will provide Family Bank with technical assistance to enhance its gender strategy and product offering.

“We recognise that beyond access to financing and investment opportunities, small businesses, especially those led by women, also need education, information and networking opportunities with like-minded enterprises,” said Njau. “This partnership enables us to offer that holistic support.”

The agreement is part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy to promote trade, manufacturing, agriculture, climate action and services, which are key priorities in Kenya.  “The financing partnership we now have with Family Bank will inject much-needed capital into Kenya’s private sector to support businesses and create employment,” said EIB Vice-President Thomas Ostros.

 The agreement signed between EIB Global and Family Bank represents ="https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/business/financial-standard/article/2001515805/how-women-investors-are-shaping-kenyas-financial-landscape?utm_cmp_rs=amp-next-page">the fourth time that the 

Share this story
State ropes in medium-sized firms in new policy changes
The government has included medium-sized enterprises in the new policy in works for small businesses.
A customer's love language is trust in a word full of promises
Longevity in business is all about building lasting relationships, and relationships do not just happen; they require a lot of effort to cultivate. 
Self-made billionaires on the rise: Report
The report released showed that a majority of the super-rich attributed inheritance to 30 to 40 per cent of their wealth.
Young Kenyan innovator cashes in on trap powered by solar
In an environment where chemical residues threaten export markets, farmers and producers must think creatively and seek innovative ways to manage pests and diseases.
CBK rejects banks' rate cap claims, digs in on Ruto's loan reforms
The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) has dismissed commercial lenders' claims that its proposed loan pricing reforms amount to a return to “interest rate capping.”
.
RECOMMENDED NEWS