Benin has mobilized CFA7.7 billion ($13.5 million) to support 365 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) following the launch of the 2026 cohort of the Support Project for Entrepreneurship in Benin (PAEB), according to an official statement released on March 19.
The initiative aims to increase the share of women-led businesses to 40% while expanding coverage across the country, strengthening inclusion and reinforcing the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Small Business Development Agency implements PAEB with support from the French Development Agency and the European Union. The program operates with a total budget of €32.2 million ($37.2 million) over the 2023–2028 period.
PAEB is designed to improve access to technical and financial services for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, while strengthening competitiveness and resilience in the SME segment.
This new phase follows a “successful” first stage that supported 160 SMEs, including 46 women-led businesses, with total financing exceeding CFA3.3 billion.
“Our goal now is to take things a step further by providing more support to businesses, expanding the program’s reach across the country, and promoting women’s entrepreneurship,” said Marlène Houssou.
SMEs are central to Benin’s economy, representing over 90% of businesses and generating the majority of new jobs. However, these enterprises continue to face structural constraints, including limited access to financing and markets, which hinder growth and competitiveness.
To address these challenges, authorities have adopted the 2024–2029 strategic plan of the SME Development Agency, aiming to strengthen support mechanisms and structure the entrepreneurial ecosystem over the long term.
Through the expanded phase of PAEB, Benin seeks to deepen SME support and accelerate inclusive economic growth across the nation.
