Coris Holding is expanding access to finance for small businesses and entrepreneurs across West Africa. Impact Fund Denmark is investing EUR 30 million (DKK 224 million) in the regional banking group to support its ambition of increasing financing to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) by 15 per cent annually. Coris Holding operates in some of the world’s most financially excluded markets, where access to finance remains a major barrier to economic growth.
MSMEs account for up to 90 per cent of businesses in Africa, yet many struggle to access the capital they need to start, grow and create jobs. The challenge has become even greater as several international banks have scaled back or exited West and Central Africa in recent years. In the WAEMU region, only around half of the population has access to a bank account or similar financial services.
Based in Burkina Faso, Coris Holding operates in 10 countries, including several fragile and conflict-affected markets. By providing loans and financial services to entrepreneurs and underserved communities, the group promotes financial inclusion, strengthens local economies and helps build resilience in regions often overlooked by traditional financial institutions.
The investment is part of a broader partnership between Impact Fund Denmark, Mediterrania Capital Partners and several European development finance institutions. As the largest taxpayer in Burkina Faso, Coris Holding also plays an important role in supporting public revenues and local economic development. By expanding access to finance, the investment will help create opportunities for businesses, strengthen economic growth and contribute to more inclusive societies across West Africa.