Over 1,200 participants from more than 60 countries and 240 financial institutions attended the Global SME Finance Forum, which was held in Johannesburg from September 15–17.
The Forum, which was a formal side event of the G20 South Africa Presidency, guaranteed South African SMEs exclusive access to global financial options and market potential.
The Forum’s timing is crucial given the ongoing global economic uncertainty and the growing constraints on traditional funding sources. There is a unique opportunity to get growth funds and form global alliances due to the concentrated presence of decision-makers from major commercial banks and development finance institutions.
The emphasis, particularly on market access, fits in especially well with South Africa’s pressing need to diversify its financial sources and export partnerships. Participants looked at cutting-edge financing options that could provide local firms with access to cash that was previously unattainable, such as guarantee programs and blended finance structures.
The Forum offers African SMEs a chance to network with international financiers actively looking for emerging-market prospects—a advantage that is rarely found in one location.
The Forum’s theme: “Building Resilience and Creating Opportunities for Growth” reflects the need to bolster small and medium enterprises amid turbulent economic conditions.
As per the South African Department of Finance, a change in funding patterns is being highlighted, one that goes beyond banks to incorporate non-bank finance actors including venture capital, equity, and crowdsourcing. Deputy Minister Ashor Sarupen stated that cooperation is essential.
The Forum’s Johannesburg location is highly relevant to SMEs in Africa, especially Ghana and the larger West-African region. It provides an opportunity to interact with international financial flows within the more developed market environment of the continent.
How Technology Has Transformed The World
The Ghana Enterprises Agency took part in the Global SME Finance Forum 2025, where they discussed gender-responsive financing, digital onboarding, and AI-driven credit scoring while also sharing Ghana’s success in MSME growth.
The nation in West Africa is dedicated to putting these lessons into practice by launching digital finance tools, enhancing fintech collaborations, and increasing chances for young and female entrepreneurs.
With the help of these pillars, Ghana is moving closer to economic change and the success of all businesses.