In Singapore, female-owned businesses have seen a significant increase in loans from OCBC Bank following the launch of its Women Unlimited programme in April. Loans to these businesses grew by over 30% in the two months after the programme started, compared to a 20% increase for male-owned businesses.
Female entrepreneurs
The programme, previously known as the OCBC Women Entrepreneurs Programme, offers women-led startups up to S$100,000 in financing within their first two years, with waived processing fees. It also provides access to educational workshops, networking, and mentorship from successful female leaders.
OCBC aims to support women entrepreneurs by expanding its SME sustainable finance framework to include social loans and by helping them overcome traditionally male-dominated business networks.
Cover Photo: OCBC