SME Digital has announced a series of outreach programmes in Fuvahmulah City and Addu City this month as part of efforts to expand access to financing and strengthen support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the Maldives.
The initiative will begin in Fuvahmulah, where a two-day engagement programme is scheduled for June 10 and 11. According to SME Digital, the sessions will focus on raising awareness about Islamic microfinance opportunities available through the Maldives Islamic Social Finance Initiative (MISFI), a programme introduced by the Bank of Maldives (BML) to support individuals and small businesses facing difficulties in obtaining conventional financing.
Officials said the programme is aimed at entrepreneurs, self-employed individuals, start-up founders and aspiring business owners seeking financial assistance to launch or expand their ventures.
As part of the event, participants will have access to financial literacy workshops, personalized consultations and guidance on submitting financing applications. SME Digital noted that applications for the microfinance facility are currently being accepted.
The company said improving financial literacy remains a key component of the programme, as many small business owners continue to face challenges in understanding financing options, managing business finances and accessing growth opportunities.
Following the Fuvahmulah sessions, SME Digital will travel to Addu City for a week-long engagement programme from June 13 to 18.
During the visit, the company plans to meet with island councils, non-governmental organizations and community stakeholders to identify opportunities for collaboration in SME development and economic empowerment.
Special information sessions will also be organized for local entrepreneurs and business owners, focusing on available financing solutions, business development support and strategies for sustainable growth.
SMEs play a significant role in the Maldivian economy, contributing to employment generation and economic activity across the country’s islands. However, access to financing has long been identified as one of the major challenges facing entrepreneurs, particularly those operating outside the Greater Malé region.
In recent years, government institutions and financial organizations have introduced several initiatives aimed at increasing financial inclusion and supporting business development in the atolls. Islamic microfinance programmes, in particular, have been promoted as a way to provide Shariah-compliant financing opportunities for individuals who may not qualify for traditional banking products.
SME Digital said the upcoming programmes form part of broader efforts to strengthen financial inclusion nationwide, improve access to Shariah-compliant financial services and create a more supportive environment for small business growth.
The company added that empowering entrepreneurs and improving access to capital are essential steps toward building resilient local economies and encouraging sustainable economic development throughout the Maldives.
