Ghana’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are set to receive a major boost following a new partnership between British International Investment and First National Bank Ghana.
British International Investment, the United Kingdom’s development finance institution, has extended a significant US$20 million loan facility to First National Bank to scale up financing opportunities for small businesses across the country.
The development marks a strategic step toward strengthening Ghana’s private sector at a time when businesses are seeking stability, long-term capital, and growth pathways.
MSMEs play a critical role in Ghana’s economic structure. They account for more than 90 percent of all enterprises, contribute about 60 percent to Ghana’s GDP, and provide close to 80 percent of jobs nationwide. Despite their contributions, many continue to face challenges in accessing affordable and long-term funding. The US$20 million facility from British International Investment is expected to ease this barrier and boost the capacity of First National Bank to support these businesses.
The agreement, announced at a signing ceremony, underscores a renewed commitment to strengthening businesses that drive employment and innovation in Ghana.
According to the Chief Executive of First National Bank, Warren Adams, the funding arrives at a crucial period when businesses are navigating economic uncertainties, particularly within the commerce sector. He noted, “This US$20 million facility enables us to extend much-needed financing to MSMEs. It demonstrates our commitment to helping these businesses that are vital to Ghana’s economic growth.”
Enhancing Access to Long-Term and Affordable Capital
With the new facility, First National Bank will expand its range of financial products targeted at small businesses. These include long-term loans, working capital solutions, and tailored financial support that allows entrepreneurs to recover, modernize, and scale their operations.
The bank believes that the facility presents an opportunity to deepen its engagement with MSMEs and provide comprehensive assistance that goes beyond traditional lending.
Mr Adams further highlighted that the support aligns with First National Bank’s broader strategy of empowering entrepreneurs with both financial and advisory solutions. “This facility comes at an opportune time as we deepen our support for Ghana’s MSMEs. Our ambition is to deliver meaningful impact in the communities we serve,” he said.
This intervention is expected to stimulate business expansion in key sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, retail, commerce, and services. By providing businesses with access to reliable capital, First National Bank aims to reduce the financial constraints that often hinder growth, limit productivity, and slow down competitiveness.
Strengthening the UK Ghana Economic Partnership
Beyond its economic implications, the initiative also highlights the deepening relationship between Ghana and the United Kingdom in promoting inclusive growth and development. British High Commissioner to Ghana, Dr. Christian Rogg, emphasized the broader impact of the collaboration. He said, by unlocking loans and investment for small businesses, the backbone of Ghana’s economy, BII is fuelling innovation, creating jobs, and driving sustainable and inclusive growth. “Together, we are delivering shared prosperity for both our nations.”
His remarks reflect the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting economies across Africa in building resilient private sectors capable of accelerating long-term development.
Dr. Rogg noted that small businesses form the foundation of Ghana’s economic strength, and the investment by British International Investment signals a strong endorsement of the country’s entrepreneurship landscape.
Driving Sustainable Development and Job Creation
Chris Chijiutomi, the Managing Director and Head of Africa at British International Investment, described the partnership as a continuation of the institution’s mission to back enterprises that promote development and stability.
“We are proud to partner with First National Bank Ghana to expand access to finance for MSMEs. This facility will help unlock opportunities, enable job creation, strengthen resilience, and foster sustainable development.”
hris Chijiutomi
The collaboration highlights the growing importance of development finance institutions in supporting African economies through targeted interventions that deliver widespread social and economic benefits.
By channeling resources into MSME financing, British International Investment is contributing to Ghana’s long-term growth strategy while positioning small businesses to withstand economic fluctuations and take advantage of new market opportunities.
The US$20 million lifeline to First National Bank marks another critical step toward expanding financial inclusion in Ghana. It comes at a time when access to credit remains a significant challenge for many small businesses seeking to scale their operations. The initiative is expected to strengthen business confidence, encourage innovation, and stimulate economic activity across multiple sectors.
Ultimately, the partnership between British International Investment and First National Bank reinforces the central role of MSMEs in shaping Ghana’s economic transformation. By empowering businesses with the financing they need, the initiative contributes to a more resilient, inclusive, and thriving private sector.
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