The CEO of the SME Bank, Bader Alradhan, emphasized the importance of the SME sector as the backbone of economic growth, while access to financing remains a pivotal challenge. He noted that the SME sector makes up nearly 99% of enterprises in the Kingdom, reflecting its major contribution to GDP and job creation, in addition to its vital role in innovation and enablement.

This came during his participation in a panel session titled Enabling Growth: Innovative Financing Models Supporting SMEs, as part of the Biban 2025 Forum.

He stated: “In recent days, we have seen rapid growth in the volume of lending and financing from commercial banks and the financial sector, which shows the importance of the sector and opens more opportunities for SMEs.”

The CEO of the SME Bank spoke about the key financing tools and solutions the bank offers to support entrepreneurs, noting that the SME Bank is working to further activate the role of indirect lending, as it seeks to find innovative financing solutions and expand the financial sector’s portfolios.

He explained that the bank adopts several business models, including a model for commercial banks, a model for non-bank financing companies licensed by the Saudi Central Bank, and a model for fintech companies. He noted that loans are provided to licensed non-bank financing companies, which strengthens the provision of the liquidity SMEs need.