The government has announced a fresh capital injection of GH¢401 million into the Women’s Development Bank to expand access to affordable finance for women-owned micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
This new funding comes on top of the GH¢51.3 million seed fund allocated to the Bank in 2025.
Presenting the 2026 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament, Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson said the initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to crowd in private finance, strengthen inclusive growth, and empower women entrepreneurs as key drivers of job creation and innovation.
“Mr Speaker, to crowd-in finance for women-owned MSMEs, we are providing another GH¢401 million to the Women’s Development Bank,” he said.
The additional funding is expected to enable the Women’s Development Bank, once fully operational, to promote financial inclusion for women across all 16 regions.
The Bank will provide concessional loans, financial literacy support, and business development services to help women entrepreneurs scale their operations and integrate into formal markets.
Dr Forson highlighted that access to affordable credit remains one of the biggest barriers for women-led businesses in Ghana, which account for more than 44 per cent of all MSMEs.
The new capital injection is intended to close this financing gap by leveraging private investment and development finance partnerships.
He further explained that the support complements other government initiatives, including the 24-Hour Economy Programme, the Big Push Infrastructure Plan, and the Accelerated Export Development Initiative, all designed to create sustainable jobs and expand opportunities for small businesses, particularly those led by women and youth.
The Women’s Development Bank is expected to use part of the funds to de-risk women-focused lending, develop credit guarantee schemes, and strengthen partnerships with rural and community banks to reach underserved areas.
With this funding, the government aims to empower women entrepreneurs, enhance access to finance, and foster inclusive economic growth that drives innovation and job creation across the country.
