One to Watch has recently become a member of the SME Finance Forum—a global network of institutions focused on improving access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Backed by the G20 and managed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) of the World Bank Group, the SME Finance Forum brings together over 300 members and affiliates operating across 190 countries. Its members include a diverse range of institutions focused on enabling SME growth—banks, non-bank financial institutions, fintech companies, development finance institutions, investors, credit guarantee providers, and many others working to strengthen the SME ecosystem.

This membership is a meaningful step for us. It aligns well with our ongoing efforts to support entrepreneurs in frontier markets by addressing challenges around capital access, financial literacy, and business resilience. Being part of this global forum gives us the opportunity to connect with like-minded organizations, share our experiences, and learn from others working to strengthen SME ecosystems across the world.

As members, we’ll also have access to insights, peer learning opportunities, and collaborative spaces that we hope will enrich our work—particularly in the areas of blended finance, green investments, and support for early-stage businesses.

We look forward to engaging with the network in the coming months, contributing to conversations on innovative financing models, and continuing to bring a local perspective to global discussions.