Driving Ethiopia’s Banking Transformation
Coopbank Wins Sustainable SME Financier of the Year at the Global SME Finance Forum
Driving Ethiopia’s banking transformation, Cooperative Bank of Oromia (Coopbank) was named Sustainable SME Financier of the Year at the Global SME Finance Forum 2025, held September 15–17 in Johannesburg, South Africa. This recognition highlights Coopbank’s leadership in empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ethiopia through innovative, inclusive, and sustainable financial services.
The forum, organized by the International Finance Corporation (IFC) in partnership with the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN), brought together over 1,200 participants from 60 countries to share best practices in SME financing, digital innovation, and financial inclusion, underscoring Coopbank’s role as a trailblazer in sustainable SME financing.
Michu: Transforming SME Financing in Ethiopia
At the core of Coopbank’s success is the Michu Digital Lending Platform, an AI-driven solution that provides collateral-free loans to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Key Michu Impact:
• 2 million+ MSME accounts served
• ETB 34+ billion in loans disbursed
• Focused support for women- and youth-led businesses “Michu is more than a lending platform—it is a gateway to financial inclusion, sustainable growth, and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in Ethiopia.
Michu’s influence extends beyond finance:
• Job Creation: Enabling employment through business growth
• Enterprise Expansion: Strengthening SMEs with tailored loans
Coopbank remains committed to empowering entrepreneurs, enhancing digital solutions, and building a financially inclusive Ethiopia. This recognition inspires the bank to continue innovating, expanding services, and making a tangible difference in the lives of businesses and communities nationwide.