Frequently asked questions

Women's Development Microfinance Bank (WDB) is a Government of Ghana initiative. It is being set up as a dedicated microfinance bank to give women entrepreneurs and traders affordable finance, together with practical support to grow their businesses.

WDB is designed for women who have traditionally been left out of banking: market women, informal traders, rural smallholder women farmers, women in fishing communities, and women-owned registered small businesses. Businesses owned by both women and men are welcome, but priority for support will be given to women-owned businesses.

WDB plans to offer affordable loans, savings suited to irregular incomes, access to other financial services with partners (such as equity funding and partial risk guarantees), business and digital training, and wider growth opportunities through business support services. Micro-insurance and pensions are also described in WDB's plans, subject to confirmed product arrangements. See planned services.

No. WDB's loans are intended to carry low interest rates, made possible by government and partner support. Charging a fair, low rate keeps the bank sustainable so it can keep serving more women. Rates have not yet been published.

That is the intention. WDB plans to assess borrowers using everyday information such as mobile money history, buying and selling patterns, utility bill payments, Ghana Card details and membership of savings or business groups. Where needed, guarantees from fellow group members and endorsements from market leaders may take the place of physical security. Every application will still be assessed, and approval is not guaranteed. See how it works.

WDB plans to bring its services to women. Agents in local communities and markets are expected to provide door-to-door registration and support. A mobile app and a USSD short code, which works on any phone without internet, are also planned, along with WDB agents in Ghana Enterprises Agency centres and Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies.

Yes, that is part of WDB's purpose. Informal traders, meaning women running businesses that are not formally registered, are one of the groups WDB is designed to serve. Final eligibility rules will be confirmed by WDB before it opens.

WDB expects to begin operations in 2027. Regulatory and operational set-up is progressing. This website will be updated when a launch date is confirmed.

No. This website provides information only. WDB has not yet opened, and it does not accept applications, deposits or payments through this website. Be cautious of anyone asking for money on WDB's behalf.

Government agencies, financial institutions, development partners, investors, assemblies, market leaders, community leaders, civil society and the media can all play a part. Visit the partnerships page and complete the enquiry form, and a member of the WDB team will respond.