This tool helps assess the financial and business development services (BDS) available to support WSMEs, focusing on key providers, offerings, and programs that drive growth and sustainability. It is valuable for funders to target resources, for regulators to shape policy, and for local financial institutions and BSOs to identify market players, potential partnerships, and referral opportunities.
Begin by identifying the institutions and organizations currently offering services to WSMEs. These include commercial banks, microfinance institutions, non-bank financial institutions, venture capital providers, business support organizations, and public or donor-funded programs. This step provides a landscape view of who is active in the space and sets the stage for deeper analysis of the services they provide.
Scan public programs targeting WSMEs, such as those from the Ministry of Finance, other ministries and agencies, industry and women’s associations, and public-private partnerships like credit guarantees or subsidized loans. Also, note support programs led by government, NGOs, or others.
Map stakeholders providing non-financial services that support entrepreneurship and business development. These include training, accelerators, mentoring, coaching, incubators, networking, and learning events. List each organization by name within its category.
Review online sources to summarize the financial products and services offered by each provider. Look into offerings such as loans, grants, equity, and guarantees. Document the institutions behind them and the WSME segments they serve.
Explore non-financial services available to WSMEs. This includes business development support like coaching, mentoring, incubators, and accelerators. Summarize key offerings, eligibility criteria, and the target segments.
Assess public initiatives aimed at supporting WSMEs. These could include government grants, training schemes, tax incentives, or infrastructure support. Summarize their focus and reach, and how well they align with different WSME segments.
Use the information gathered in Step 2 to summarize how current financial and non-financial offerings align with each WSME growth segment: high, moderate, and low. Identify which needs are being met and where gaps exist, helping stakeholders prioritize opportunities for tailored interventions.