The government has disbursed more than MVR 31 million in loans to female entrepreneurs, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises and expand economic opportunities for women.
According to figures released by SME Digital, a total of MVR 31 million has been issued to 128 businesses between November 17, 2023, and April 15, 2026.
The financing was delivered through targeted initiatives designed to encourage women’s participation in business. Among these is the “Fashaa Madhadhu” loan programme, introduced under the current administration, as well as a dedicated financing scheme launched by SME Digital last November.
SME Digital reported that MVR 6.2 million was provided to 31 businesses under its female-focused financing scheme. Meanwhile, the Fashaa Madhadhu programme accounted for a larger share, with MVR 25 million disbursed to 97 women entrepreneurs.
The institution noted that its dedicated scheme offers flexible financing across a wide range of business sectors without requiring collateral, with loan amounts ranging from MVR 25,000 to MVR 250,000.
Under the Fashaa Madhadhu programme, individuals starting new businesses can access loans between MVR 100,000 and MVR 500,000 at an annual interest rate of 6 percent.
Authorities say these initiatives reflect broader efforts to empower women in business and support the growth of the SME sector, which continues to play a key role in the Maldivian economy.
