The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has launched SMEConnect, a centralized digital platform for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to apply for financing from banks and development finance institutions (DFIs). From Nov. 1, 2026, all SME financing applications must go through the platform, which allows applicants to track their application status in real time and see reasons for rejection. A live dashboard will give SBP visibility into applications at individual banks and DFIs and across the industry. It will show applications received and processed, alongside approvals, disbursements and rejections, in real time. Banks and DFIs will direct applicants using their branches or websites to SMEConnect and have been advised to display the portal link prominently on their websites.
State Bank of Pakistan launches SMEConnect as exclusive channel for SME financing applications from November 1, 2026
The State Bank of Pakistan has launched SMEConnect, which will become the sole channel for small and medium enterprise financing applications to banks and development finance institutions from Nov. 1, 2026. Applicants can track progress and view reasons for rejection, while a live dashboard gives the central bank visibility into applications and outcomes at individual institutions and across the industry.