Development Bank Ghana

The Development Bank Ghana (DBG) is a vital financial institution that plays a pivotal role in Ghana's economic development. As a government-owned bank, DBG operates with a mission to foster economic growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance the capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). DBG achieves these objectives by providing indirect loans to SMEs, specifically targeting those with fewer than 100 employees.

DBG has a significant participation and strategic partnerships from 7 financial institutions, including the African Development Bank, the World Bank Group, the European Investment Bank, and the German Development Bank. These partnerships enable DBG to secure grants and loans, which it then channels to Ghana's commercial banks, ensuring that vital financial resources are readily available to support local businesses.

DBG's priorities the following basic sectors: Tourism, Off-farm agribusiness farm value-chain activities, Manufacturing, ICT-software, and Housing with a strong focus on the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations. 

With a clear mandate and strong partnerships, DBG plays a crucial role in advancing Ghana's economic resilience and competitiveness. It has so far disbursed 451 million Cedis while fostering inclusive growth in the country.

The Development Bank Ghana (DBG) has emerged as a pivotal institution in the Ghanaian financial landscape since its establishment in July 2021. Owned by the Ghanaian government, DBG was conceived in 2017, officially established in 2020, and granted a license to operate by the Bank of Ghana in 2021. This developmental powerhouse was subsequently launched in June 2022, marking a significant step toward bolstering the country's economic growth.

DBG's primary mission revolves around providing financial support to commercial banks and other financial institutions in Ghana, empowering them to lend to Ghanaian SMEs. This strategic approach fosters economic development by nurturing and strengthening small and medium-sized enterprises, a crucial sector of any thriving economy. DBG's commitment to this mission is underscored by its focus on the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 5 (gender equality), SDG 9 (industry, innovation, and infrastructure), SDG 13 (climate action), and SDG 17 (partnerships for the goals), aligning itself with global efforts to promote sustainable growth within Ghana.

DBG's impact on the financial landscape is already evident, with four commercial banks, namely CalBank, Consolidated Bank Ghana, Ghana Commercial Bank, and Fidelity Bank Ghana, joining forces with DBG to facilitate the flow of funds to eligible businesses. As of June 2022, DBG's total assets had reached nearly $800 million, with shareholders' equity standing at $250 million. 

Looking ahead, DBG envisions a future where it significantly contributes to increasing the proportion of banking loans advanced to small businesses, aiming to raise this figure from 9 percent in 2022 to an ambitious 15 percent by 2024. With the government of Ghana and its development partners poised to inject additional capital into DBG, the institution is poised to play an increasingly pivotal role in shaping Ghana's economic landscape.

Development Bank Ghana (DBG) is on a mission to drive economic growth and prosperity within Ghana by forging robust partnerships that support SMEs. Through long-term financing and de-risking services, underpinned by cutting-edge technology and data-driven insights, DBG aims to create a nurturing environment for small and medium-sized enterprises to thrive. By channeling its efforts toward financing, capacity-building, and job creation, DBG seeks to stimulate economic growth and sustainable development within the nation.

DBG aspires to be an independent, financially sustainable institution that operates at a world-class level. To achieve this, it focuses on attracting, developing, and retaining exceptional talent, ensuring that its team possesses the expertise and dedication required to execute its mission effectively. Moreover, DBG places a strong emphasis on promoting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) excellence among the businesses it supports, thus contributing to responsible and ethical business practices that benefit society and the environment.

Development Bank Ghana envisions itself as a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable economic transformation in Ghana. At the core of its vision is the drive to nurture and advance a dynamic and competitive private sector. By supporting and propelling the growth of businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), DBG aims to fuel economic expansion that benefits all segments of society. Through strategic financing and partnerships, DBG envisions a Ghana where businesses thrive, job opportunities abound, and the private sector takes the lead in propelling the nation's economic development.

DBG's vision extends to fostering an environment of innovation and resilience, where businesses not only compete but also contribute to the nation's sustainable growth. By focusing on inclusive economic transformation, DBG aims to ensure that the benefits of development reach every corner of the country, ultimately improving the quality of life for all Ghanaians. In essence, DBG's vision revolves around being a driving force behind Ghana's journey towards becoming a prosperous and economically vibrant nation, driven by a robust and competitive private sector.

Development Bank Ghana (DBG) offers a range of products and services designed to empower and support Ghanaian businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Central to DBG's mission is providing long-term financing and de-risking services to foster economic growth and job creation while building the capacity of SMEs. DBG partners with various financial organizations and institutions to ensure that businesses have access to the financial resources they need to thrive.

DBG focuses on multiple sectors critical to Ghana's economic development, including tourism, off-farm agribusiness farm value-chain activities, manufacturing, ICT-software, and housing. By catering to these sectors, DBG aims to address specific industry needs and promote sustainable growth. Through its products and services, DBG strives to increase the proportion of banking loans directed to small businesses, from 9 percent in 2022 to 15 percent in 2024, facilitating their expansion and contribution to Ghana's economy.

As a wholesale bank, DBG collaborates with financial organizations to extend its reach, ensuring that businesses across various sectors can access the financial support required for growth. By aligning its activities with Ghana's industrial and export strategies, DBG actively contributes to the nation's economic goals and encourages businesses to generate more employment opportunities. With a commitment to long-term funds and partnerships, DBG plays a crucial role in promoting economic resilience and competitiveness within Ghana's private sector.