Forum Program
CBFF-SME 2026 Program
August 10–11, 2026 · Kigali Serena Hotel, Rwanda
Two days of high-level policy dialogue, expert panels, deal-making sessions, and networking — designed to drive real outcomes for SME financing across Africa.
August 10, 2026
Policy Leadership, SME Growth & Market Access
Registration & Networking Breakfast
BreakSMEs, banks, investors, trade institutions, development partners.
Opening Ceremony — Rwanda as Gateway for SME Investment in Africa
PlenaryMINICOM · Ministry of Finance · Ministry of Trade — Rwanda's investment strategy, strengthening the SME ecosystem, positioning Kigali as a continental finance hub.
Policy Dialogue — Financing the Next Generation of African SMEs
PanelMinistry of Finance and Economic Planning — Closing the SME financing gap, mobilizing domestic and international capital.
Financial Stability — Creating a Trusted SME Financial Ecosystem
PanelNational Bank of Rwanda — Financial sector regulation & SME credit frameworks, strengthening confidence in SME lending.
Coffee Break
BreakBanking Leaders Panel — Unlocking Bank Financing for African SMEs
PanelBank of Kigali · I&M Bank · Bank of Africa — SME lending strategies, trade finance opportunities, cross-border banking solutions.
Networking Lunch
BreakRisk & Financing Solutions — Reducing Risk to Unlock SME Financing
PanelFAGACE — Credit guarantees for SMEs, risk mitigation for banks, improving SME bankability.
Digital Economy — Digital Infrastructure for SME Growth
PanelSmart Africa — Digital trust infrastructure, digital identity for SMEs, scaling African digital platforms.
Global Market Intelligence — Finding International Buyers for African Products
PanelNEXORA — Export market analysis, identifying global demand, connecting SMEs with buyers.
SME Investment Pitch Session — The CBFF Investment Pipeline
Deal RoomSelected SMEs including dedicated Women & Youth-Led pitches — Growth strategy & financing needs, export potential. Audience: banks, investors, trade institutions.