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Unlocking SME banking growth in Africa & the Middle East

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of economies across Africa and the Middle East, making up over 90% of all businesses in the region. Despite their vital role in driving innovation, employment, and GDP growth, SMEs continue to be underserved by traditional banking models.

This report from Backbase and IBS Intelligence (IBSi) explores the financing barriers facing SMEs and outlines how banks can respond with agile, digital-first solutions. From AI-powered lending to embedded finance, the insights help banks move beyond legacy approaches and become true growth partners to the SME segment.

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Key highlights

Discover how banks across the region can build more personalized, scalable, and future-ready SME banking models.

Why 40% of African SMEs cite lack of financing as their top growth barrier

What’s driving 35–40% of SMEs in MEA to consider fintechs for financing

How digital onboarding is becoming a game changer in African SME banking

Case studies from African Bank, Emirates NBD, Mashreq, Moniepoint, and more

How banks can step up as growth partners and unlock sustainable profitability