Freetown, 30th March 2026- In recent years, the banking landscape in Sierra Leone has undergone a quiet but powerful transformation—one driven by purpose, inclusion, and innovation.
At the heart of this shift is the Ellevate by Ecobank program, a flagship initiative designed to empower women-led businesses through a unique blend of financial and non-financial support.
More than just a banking product, Ellevate represents a bold commitment by Ecobank Sierra Leone to bridge the gender financing gap and unlock the immense potential of women entrepreneurs across the country.
A New Model of Banking for Women
Traditionally, access to finance has been one of the biggest barriers facing women entrepreneurs. Ellevate is changing that narrative by offering loan facilities of up to $50,000 USD, tailored specifically for women-led businesses. These loans come with more flexible requirements, enabling women to access capital without the rigid constraints that have historically excluded them.
What truly sets Ellevate apart, however, is its holistic approach.
Beyond financing, the program provides:
Business advisory services
Capacity building and training
Mentorship and networking opportunities
Market access support
This combination ensures that women are not only funded but also equipped to grow, scale, and sustain their businesses.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Across Sierra Leone, Ellevate is already making a tangible difference, transforming small businesses into thriving enterprises.
In Makeni, Subish Fast Food stands as a shining example of growth and resilience.
With support from Ecobank, the business has expanded its operations, improved service delivery, and created employment opportunities—evolving from a modest outlet into a recognized local brand.
In Kenema, We Yone Seed tells an equally inspiring story. What began as a small-scale farming activity has developed into a structured agribusiness. Through access to finance and advisory support, the entrepreneur behind We Yone Seed has transitioned from subsistence farming to full-fledged agripreneurship, contributing to food security and local economic development.
These are just two of many success stories emerging from the program—stories of women who are redefining what is possible.
Scale and Impact
Ecobank Sierra Leone can proudly point to measurable achievements under the Ellevate program:
Over 1,000 female entrepreneurs supported
More than $6 million USD disbursed in loan facilities
These figures are not just statistics—they represent businesses expanded, jobs created, families supported, and communities uplifted.
Driving Economic Growth Through Inclusion
Women-owned businesses are a critical pillar of Sierra Leone’s economy, particularly within the SME sector.
By investing in these enterprises, Ecobank is contributing directly to:
Job creation
Increased household incomes
Business formalization
Strengthened local value chains
Empowering women entrepreneurs has a multiplier effect—when women succeed, communities thrive, and economies grow.
The Bank’s Role as a Catalyst for Change
Ecobank Sierra Leone has positioned itself not just as a financial institution, but as a strategic partner in national development. Through Ellevate, the bank is actively advancing gender equality in business while fostering a more inclusive financial ecosystem.
Sharing insight on the program’s impact, Sheikh Omaru Jalloh noted:
“Ellevate is more than a banking solution—it is a movement to empower women to take their rightful place at the forefront of economic transformation. By combining access to finance with knowledge and support systems, we are enabling women-led businesses to grow sustainably and contribute meaningfully to Sierra Leone’s development.”
Looking Ahead
As the Ellevate program continues to expand, its impact is expected to deepen—reaching more women, unlocking more opportunities, and strengthening the SME ecosystem across Sierra Leone.
In redefining how banks engage with women entrepreneurs, Ecobank is not only transforming lives—it is also helping to shape a more inclusive and prosperous future for the nation.
