partnership between Family Bank and EIB Global

Family Bank and EIB Global Unveil KSh 14.7 Billion Credit Facility to Empower Women and Youth Entrepreneurs in Kenya

In a significant move to bolster Kenya’s entrepreneurial landscape, Family Bank has partnered with EIB Global, the development arm of the European Investment Bank, to launch a KSh 14.7 billion (€100 million) credit facility aimed at supporting women-owned and youth-led businesses.

Announced during the EU-Kenya Business Forum in Nairobi, the initiative will see EIB Global provide €50 million in long-term financing, matched by Family Bank. The funds are earmarked for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-sized companies, particularly in the agriculture and trade sectors.

“This milestone agreement will expand access to credit for women-led and women-owned businesses and youth enterprises across Kenya, supporting inclusive growth, job creation, and sustainable value chains in key sectors like trade and agriculture,” said Family Bank CEO Nancy Njau.

A key feature of the program is its targeted support: at least 50% of the financing will go to women-led enterprises, with a minimum of 30% allocated to youth-run businesses. This focus addresses the persistent challenges these groups face in accessing affordable financing.

Beyond capital, EIB Global will provide technical assistance to enhance Family Bank’s gender inclusion strategy and financial product development. This includes exploring certification under the 2X Challenge, a global initiative to mobilize capital for women-focused investments.

This partnership marks the fourth financing collaboration between Family Bank and EIB Global, aligning with broader European Union efforts under its Global Gateway strategy and the Investing in Young Businesses in Africa (IYBA) program.

“This is a long term investment that aims to touch the lives of Kenyans transformatively. The EIB stands ready to support Kenya to achieve its economic and development goals,”  said Thomas Östros, Vice President European Investment Bank

Young Africa Works

The recent partnership between Family Bank and EIB Global, introducing a KSh 14.7 billion (€100 million) credit facility, complements existing initiatives like the Mastercard Foundation’s Young Africa Works (YAW) program with KCB and Equity Banks

By combining access to capital with capacity building and systemic support, these initiatives foster an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that contributes to sustainable economic development in Kenya.