The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) is pleased to share an update on the ongoing SME Finance Research Study, a major national initiative aimed at identifying and addressing the key barriers that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) face in accessing bank financing in Pakistan.
This research study is being conducted in partnership with the Lahore School of Economics (LSE), the Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan (CERP), and the University of Chicago. Together, these institutions are working to generate evidence-based insights that will inform programs that will improve SME access to formal financial services.
To date, the research team has successfully recruited over 700 registered SMEs from across Pakistan and more than 100 bank relationship managers representing a diverse range of financial institutions. Extensive interviews have been conducted with both SME managers and bank officers to better understand the lending process from both sides of the market.
The project has now entered a new phase, in which referrals are being facilitated between participating bank relationship managers and SME managers. In the coming weeks, the research team will conduct confidential follow-up calls to track and cross-verify these interactions. These follow-ups will play a crucial role in shaping SMEDA’s future support programs and financial access policies for SMEs nationwide.
All participating SMEs and relationship managers are strongly encouraged to reach out to their assigned referrals—whether by phone or in person—as every interaction contributes valuable information toward improving SME financing in Pakistan.
As a token of appreciation, certificates of recognition will be awarded to:
- SMEs that successfully make contact with their referred bank relationship managers and complete short follow-up interviews; and
- Bank relationship managers who reach out to all their assigned SME managers and complete regular follow-up interviews, along with their respective branch managers.
These certificates will be jointly issued by SMEDA, the Lahore School of Economics, and the University of Chicago, in recognition of each participant’s contribution to this important national research initiative. Certificates will be issued around December of 2025, please get in touch with referrals as soon as possible.
This study represents a vital step toward creating more inclusive financial systems and supporting Pakistan’s SME sector as a key driver of economic growth and employment.
For further information, please contact:
Muhammad Asif
Deputy General Manager, SME Division
Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA)
Ph: +92 300 6363899
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