Small and Medium Enterprise Foundation (SMEF) () is a state-owned autonomous organization of the Government of Bangladesh that supports the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The foundation provides training, policy advocacy, and financial assistance to entrepreneurs across Bangladesh.
The foundation operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Industries. It collaborates with government agencies, financial institutions, international development partners, and industry stakeholders.
Md. Mushfiqur Rahman is the chairman of the SME Foundation.
The Small and Medium Enterprise Foundation was established in 2007 with an initial fund of Tk 2 billion provided by the Government of Bangladesh. It was incorporated under the Companies Act as a non-profit company limited by guarantee. The foundation was created to strengthen the MSME sector, which is a major contributor to employment and economic growth in Bangladesh.
SMEF organizes training and skill development programs for entrepreneurs, including seminars and workshops in partnership with financial institutions and commerce organizations. For example, Standard Chartered Bank, the Chittagong Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry, and SME Foundation jointly hosted a financial literacy program for women entrepreneurs.
SMEF also collaborates with international organizations, such as signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to boost entrepreneurship and promote green business practices across Bangladesh.
The foundation provides low-cost funds to small and medium entrepreneurs through various financing schemes. In 2024, SMEF extended loans at competitive interest rates to support businesses affected by economic challenges and to foster growth in priority sectors such as manufacturing, services, and technology industries.
During the 2023-24 fiscal year, SME Foundation implemented more than 690 programs, including national SME awards, product fairs, buyer-seller meetings, and digital support initiatives for women entrepreneurs.
SMEF is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of representatives from relevant ministries, financial institutions, and SME trade associations. Board members are often drawn from partner organizations and industry bodies.