In emerging and developing economies, access to formal finance is already one of the major constraints faced by SMEs before the outbreak of COVID-19. In fact, the pandemic posed challenges of scope and scale that are unprecedented in modern times. However, credit guarantee schemes can facilitate SMEs’ access to finance and help overcome deficiencies, playing an important role in rebuilding and facilitating their growth. 

To this end, Qatar Development Bank “QDB”, in partnership with the SME Finance Forum, is hosting the 6th International MENA Guarantee Conference under the theme “Credit Guarantees: A Path to Sustainable SME Recovery”.

On 23 & 24 May 2022 at 1 p.m. (Qatar Time) GMT+3, the conference will convene leading credit guarantee experts and practitioners from the MENA region and beyond, alongside SME finance specialists and industry professionals, to discuss the performance and experiences of CGSs in addressing the financial needs of SMEs during and post-COVID-19 era, with a sustainable recovery approach.