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The Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) announced that the Business Development Centers (BDCs) under the “Nilepreneurs” initiative have successfully delivered more than 1.16 million non-financial and advisory services to approximately 502,000 clients, including 210,000 women. The initiative has also facilitated access to financing totaling EGP 19 billion for over 14,000 projects in partnership with 18 banks. These services aim to equip entrepreneurs and owners of start-ups, small, medium, and micro enterprises with the tools and guidance needed to secure appropriate funding and enhance their growth and competitiveness.

Between 2020 and 2025, the BDCs witnessed significant growth in both the number of services provided and clients served. The average annual growth rate reached 135% for services and 125% for clients, supported by a wide geographical network of 132 centers across 25 governorates.

Economic Empowerment

This achievement continues the CBE’s efforts to support entrepreneurs and SMEs by encouraging the banking sector to expand non-financial and advisory services, and by promoting the formalization of informal sector projects, in alignment with Egypt Vision 2030 for sustainable economic empowerment.

The BDCs provide a comprehensive set of free advisory services, including assistance in selecting viable business ideas, company formation, licensing procedures, preparation of economic feasibility studies, financial analysis, access to funding, and credit file preparation. The centers also help establish supplier relationships, open new markets, and provide training to enhance skills and capabilities.

Entrepreneurs and SMEs can benefit from these services free of charge at BDCs located in bank branches, youth centers, and universities across most governorates. Locations and further information are available at: https://np.eg/bds-hubs/