HBL and the Sindh Enterprise Development Fund (SEDF) have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at boosting the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector across the province of Sindh. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed to formalize this collaboration, under which both institutions will work closely to design and implement a comprehensive subsidized financing structure tailored to the unique needs of SMEs.
The agreement outlines plans to offer both secured and unsecured credit solutions, enabling small and medium-sized businesses to access much-needed financial support. The primary objective of this collaboration is to unlock growth potential within the SME sector, promote entrepreneurship, create job opportunities, and contribute to sustainable economic development throughout the province.
Under this framework, HBL and SEDF will jointly create a structured lending program that lowers entry barriers for SMEs, especially those unable to meet traditional collateral requirements. The financing solutions will be tailored to ensure greater accessibility, reduced borrowing costs, and an environment conducive to business expansion.
In addition to providing financial support, the partnership will also emphasize capacity building for entrepreneurs. Through a series of training initiatives, mentorship programs, and advisory services, SMEs will be empowered with the knowledge and tools they need to operate efficiently and scale their businesses. This dual focus on capital and capacity is expected to help SMEs in Sindh compete more effectively in an increasingly challenging economic landscape.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Muhammad Nassir Salim, President and CEO of HBL, highlighted the bank’s longstanding commitment to the SME sector. “SMEs are the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, yet many struggle to secure financing due to stringent collateral requirements. HBL has played a critical role in shaping the landscape for SMEs across the country. The Bank is fully committed to growing the ‘S’ of SME business in a significant and sustainable way. Our collaboration with SEDF will create new pathways for financial inclusion which will further strengthen the SME ecosystem in the province of Sindh.”
Khizar Pervaiz, CEO of SEDF, echoed this sentiment, noting the broader implications for inclusive economic growth. “This collaboration with HBL marks a pivotal step toward empowering SMEs in Sindh with easier access to capital, helping bridge the financing gap and accelerate inclusive economic growth.”
Syed Qassim Naveed Qamar, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Investment, Government of Sindh, also shared his views, stating, “This partnership is a commendable step toward unlocking the true potential of Sindh’s SME sector. We firmly believe that such strategic collaborations will not only promote entrepreneurship but also generate employment and contribute meaningfully to the province’s economic growth. The Government of Sindh remains fully committed to supporting initiatives that drive inclusive and sustainable development.”
The partnership between HBL and SEDF signals a larger shift in how financial institutions and public sector bodies are coming together to foster a more inclusive economic environment. With targeted support and carefully designed financing products, the SME sector in Sindh is set to gain renewed momentum in the months ahead.