Strengthening SMEs through Inclusive Access to Finance and Matching Grant Cheque Distribution
Quetta (August 28, 2025)
Quetta, August 28, 2025: Under European Union funded Growth for Rural Advancement and Sustainable Progress (GRASP) seminar on Strengthening SMEs through Inclusive Access to Finance was held. The seminar brought together financial institutions, borrowers, private sector representatives and development partners to discuss barriers faced by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and explore innovative, collaborative solutions to improve financial inclusion.
Honourable Mir Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti, Chief Minister Balochistan graced the event as Chief Guest underscoring government’s endorsement of GRASP’s intervention and appreciation for its achievements. He said “I deeply appreciate the efforts of GRASP and all the organisations involved in its implementation. It takes vision to integrate so many critical factors into one project and achieving the level of success we are witnessing today. I am glad to see Balochistan’s entrepreneurs being provided this platform, and I extend my full support to initiatives like these that can bring prosperity to the province.”
The event also marked a milestone in empowering Balochistan’s horticulture and livestock sectors. Cheques of matching grants worth PKR 172.5 million were distributed while several set-up stalls showcasing their products. Some of the SMEs also came on stage to share their success stories, reflecting how GRASP has played a role in transforming their businesses and communities.
Addressing the ceremony, Nadir Gul Barech, CEO PPAF said “Every grant and loan facilitated under GRASP translates into new opportunities for small-scale entrepreneurs. These enterprises are creating jobs, adding value to local produce and proving that with the right support, small businesses can transform entire communities. The project has opened doors for rural SMEs, creating livelihood opportunities, enhancing exports and strengthening Balochistan’s economy.”
So far GRASP has given 196 matching grants worth more than PKR 456 million. Whereas a total of 174 loans worth more than PKR 268 million have been facilitated by developing linkages with financial institutions.
Talking about Balochistan’s enormous potential, achievements of GRASP and working closely with government for sustainable trade promotion, Robert Skidmore, Chief Sector and Enterprise Competitiveness – DECI/ SEC, International Trade Centre said, “GRASP has connected SMEs in Balochistan, including farmers, to national and international markets through strong linkages—boosting incomes and creating thousands of jobs. This is a clear example of how to support sustainable and inclusive economic growth at scale working with the private sector.”
The seminar concluded with a shared commitment from government, development partners, and the private sector to continue supporting rural enterprises through inclusive financial solutions. GRASP’s achievements in Balochistan reaffirm the importance of collaborative action in building resilient, competitive, and sustainable SMEs that can drive long-term growth for the province and Pakistan.
About GRASP
The Growth for Rural Advancement and Sustainable Progress (GRASP), a European Union funded project for poverty reduction and sustainable inclusive economic growth, is being implemented by International Trade Centre (ITC) in partnership with the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) and the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF). Focused on 22 selected districts of Balochistan & Sindh, GRASP’s specific objective is to strengthen rural SMEs in 11 horticulture and livestock value chains. The project is contributing towards achievement of SDG 1 (NO Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work) and SDG 13 (Climate Change).