Egypt’s Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (MSMEDA), formerly the Social Fund for Development, has financed over four million projects with a total of EGP 79.6 billion since its founding 35 years ago. The funding has supported the creation of approximately 6.8 million jobs across Egypt’s industrial, agricultural, and service sectors. Notably, the agency’s data reveals a nearly equal distribution of financial support, with women entrepreneurs receiving 49% of the total funding.
Quick Facts
- Total funding injected: EGP 79.6 billion
- Women beneficiaries: 49% of total funding
- Jobs created: Approximately 6.8 million
A Surge in Funding Post-2014
The SME sector in Egypt has seen a significant acceleration in funding over the last decade. According to official figures, MSMEDA has deployed EGP 62.4 billion between 2014 and April 2026. This amount represents over 82% of the total financing the agency has provided since its inception in 1991, signaling a concentrated government effort to bolster the SME ecosystem in recent years.
Achieving Near Gender Parity in Funding
A key finding from the agency’s report is the balanced allocation of capital between genders. Male entrepreneurs accounted for 51% of the financial support, while female entrepreneurs secured 49%. This near-parity highlights a focused strategy on fostering economic empowerment and inclusivity for women-led businesses across the country.
Beyond Capital: Training and Market Access
In addition to direct financing, MSMEDA has directed EGP 7.1 billion towards infrastructure projects, community development, and training programs. The agency has successfully trained tens of thousands of citizens in entrepreneurship and modern marketing skills. To facilitate growth and market entry, MSMEDA has also provided beneficiaries with access to 2,346 diverse international, central, and local exhibitions, helping them expand their reach and compete effectively.
The agency’s services cover all of Egypt’s governorates, including Upper Egypt, the coastal regions, border areas, and the Sinai Peninsula, ensuring broad geographic distribution of support for projects across various economic activities.
About MSMEDA
The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (MSMEDA) is an Egyptian governmental entity dedicated to supporting the SME sector. Originally established as the Social Fund for Development in 1991, its mission is to foster economic growth and job creation by providing financing, training, and market access to entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout Egypt.
Source: Youm7
