QNB Egypt launches SME Champions program to boost small business growth

QNB Egypt, the Egyptian subsidiary of the Qatar National Bank Group, held a specialised forum as part of the national SME Champions Programme. The event, organised with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and under the patronage of the Central Bank of Egypt, targeted export‑oriented small and medium‑size enterprises (SMEs). Participants included QNB Egypt CEO Mohamed Bader and EBRD SME advisory director Dr Yehia Al‑Husseini.

The programme aims to enhance the competitiveness of Egyptian SMEs by providing knowledge, best‑practice guidance and financial tools. Sessions covered the integration of environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices, effective participation in international trade fairs, and financing solutions such as trade finance and foreign‑exchange hedging. Ahmed Fouad, head of QNB Egypt’s SME sector, said the bank’s support goes beyond funding to empower companies with expertise and tools for sustainable growth. Dr Al‑Husseini highlighted the joint commitment to equip exporters with the capabilities needed to expand into regional and global markets.