Alexandria Business Association SME Project

Small and Handicraft Enterprises Development Project is one of the flagship initiatives of the Alexandria Business Association. Established in 1989 in cooperation with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Project was launched to provide financial support to micro-entrepreneurs who were unable to access financing through the traditional banking system. Within a short period, the Project achieved both financial and operational sustainability, positioning it as a pioneer in the microfinance industry in Egypt.

Leveraging its extensive experience, the Project has expanded to offer advisory services and, under the slogan “A trusted and influential partner driving economic and social development,” continues to focus on microfinance while supporting the transition from the informal economy to the formal economy.

The Project currently operates through 138 branches across 21 governorates, offering a wide range of financing programs, including: individual financing, individual “Forsah Loan,” and group financing programs (Bashayir El-Kheir, Magmouaty, and Tawsaa). Its mission and impact continue to grow.