Ecobank Ghana has launched an enhanced version of its flagship gender-financing programme, ‘Ellevate by Ecobank’, broadening support for women entrepreneurs across all business segments.
Initially designed for women-led and women-focused SMEs, the programme now extends its reach to cover large corporations, sole proprietors, and even informal sector traders, offering tailored financial and non-financial solutions.
The upgraded Ellevate provides increased financial support, including unsecured loans of up to $50,000, competitive interest rates, and a reduced business track record requirement from three years to two years. It also offers business expansion opportunities through Ecobank’s MyTradeHub, an online matchmaking platform connecting women entrepreneurs with new markets across Africa.
Speaking at the launch, Managing Director of Ecobank Ghana PLC ,Abena Osei-Poku, highlighted the programme’s impact:
“Since its launch, Ellevate has onboarded about 10,000 customers, disbursed $84 million in loans, and attracted $173 million in deposits. We have also trained over 2,000 women entrepreneurs. The enhanced programme strengthens our commitment to being the bank of choice for women entrepreneurs.”
Beyond financial support, Ellevate offers business training, wealth management services, insurance solutions, and a loyalty programme with exclusive retail discounts.
The launch was attended by key government officials, women business leaders, and Ecobank executives, underscoring the bank’s commitment to advancing financial inclusion and economic empowerment for women across Ghana and beyond.