SDFC launches new financing scheme for women entrepreneurs

The SME Development Finance Corporation (SDFC) has opened applications for a new financing scheme aimed at supporting women-led businesses.

The scheme offers Shariah-compliant, collateral-free financing ranging from MVR 25,000 to MVR 250,000. It is available to both aspiring entrepreneurs and those already operating businesses. The facility carries a profit rate of 9.5 percent per annum, with a maximum grace period of 12 months and a repayment tenure of up to seven years.

SDFC CEO Badhurudheen Hassan said the initiative provides a pathway for Maldivian women to showcase their entrepreneurial skills and contribute to sustainable economic growth. “By offering financial assistance with flexible repayment terms, we aim to encourage women to establish their own ventures and strengthen their role in national development,” he said.

Applications are now open via the SME Portal on the SDFC website.

In addition to this newly launched scheme, SDFC continues to offer financing under the Fashaa Madhadhu Loan scheme, introduced in 2024 in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade and the Ministry of Social and Family Development.