Access Bank has been named the 2025 Global SME Finance Awards winner for Best Financier for Women Entrepreneurs in Africa, an accolade presented at the Global SME Finance Forum 2025 in Johannesburg. The awards are curated by the SME Finance Forum, a global knowledge platform managed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
“This recognition builds on the idea that when you back women entrepreneurs with the right finance, networks, and practical support, growth follows,” said Sandile Shabalala, Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank South Africa. “Across our markets, we are focused on accessible funding pathways and hands-on programs that help women move from concept to commercial traction. We are honoured by the award and we see it as a mandate to do even more.”
The Best Financier for Women Entrepreneurs category recognises institutions that demonstrate material, measurable support for women owned SMEs. The category was launched in 2018 under IFC’s Banking on Women initiative and continues to highlight practical models that improve access to finance and capability for women-led businesses.
In South Africa, Access Bank’s women-focused efforts include Access Bank for Women, a suite that combines banking solutions with mentoring and business resources, and the Womenpreneur Pitch & Match initiative with Regenesys, introduced in 2025 to expand exposure to investors, mentors, and market opportunities for women-led ventures.
The Global SME Finance Forum 2025 took place in Johannesburg from 15 to 17 September 2025, convening public- and private-sector leaders to spotlight SME finance innovation.
“Every success story begins with someone believing. We dedicate this award to the women who are building resilient, opportunity-creating businesses across Africa. Our role is to keep removing friction through relevant products, fair pricing, and strong partnerships, so their ambitions can compound,” said Shabalala.