State Bank of Pakistan launches SME Connect digital platform

The State Bank of Pakistan has introduced SME Connect, a digital platform designed to streamline access to loans for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The platform serves as a single digital gateway for SMEs to submit loan applications to banks and development finance institutions (DFIs).

SME Connect aims to improve the efficiency and transparency of SME financing. Applicants will be able to track the real-time status of their requests and receive specific reasons if an application is rejected. Additionally, the platform features a live dashboard that provides the State Bank with comprehensive data on received, processed, approved, and rejected loan applications, categorized by individual institution and industry.

Starting November 1, 2026, all SME loan applications must be submitted exclusively through the SME Connect platform. Banks and DFIs are instructed to direct applicants from their physical branches or websites to the new digital system.