MCB Group marks 10 years of microfinance, disburses $47 million

MCB Group Ltd, the Mauritius-based financial services provider, is celebrating a decade of impact through its microfinance arm, which has financed thousands of small businesses and disbursed more than MUR2.2 billion ($47 million) since its launch in 2016.

Established to expand access to credit for underserved entrepreneurs, MCB Microfinance has supported 4,339 customers and financed 9,321 projects across Mauritius and Rodrigues, reinforcing its role in driving financial inclusion and grassroots economic growth.

Expanding access to entrepreneurial financing
Since its inception on July 15, 2016, MCB Microfinance has focused on bridging the financing gap for individuals often excluded from traditional banking channels. Within a year, the institution expanded into Rodrigues and surpassed 1,000 financed customers, underscoring strong demand for its services.

Over time, the subsidiary refined its lending model to better serve entrepreneurs. It reduced its minimum loan size to MUR15,000 ($317.28) in 2018 to support smaller ventures, while raising its maximum loan ceiling to MUR800,000 ($16,922) in 2019 to accommodate growing businesses.

Driving business growth and post-pandemic recovery
More than half of the financing provided by MCB Microfinance has gone toward business expansion and modernization, while about 45.4% has supported working capital needs for small enterprises.

The institution also played a role in economic recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic by introducing Start-up Loans in 2020. To date, it has issued 226 such loans worth MUR21.3 million ($450,570), helping individuals launch new ventures or create jobs.

Strong footprint in Rodrigues
MCB Microfinance has maintained a steady presence in Rodrigues, where it has disbursed 1,002 loans totaling MUR167.8 million ($3.55 million). The subsidiary surpassed MUR100 million ($2.12 million) in cumulative disbursements on the island in 2023, continuing to support local enterprise development.

Milestones reflect sustained growth
The past few years have marked significant progress, including reaching MUR1 billion ($21.15 million) in total disbursements in 2022, digitizing its loan application process in 2024, and surpassing MUR2 billion ($42.3 million) in 2025.

These milestones highlight the institution’s steady growth and its ability to adapt to evolving customer needs through innovation and digital transformation.

Leadership reflects on impact and future direction
Aurélie Leclézio, Chief Executive Officer of MCB Microfinance, said the anniversary reflects more than financial performance, emphasizing the institution’s broader social mission.

“This year, MCB Microfinance celebrates its 10th anniversary. More than just a subsidiary, it represents the MCB Group’s purpose of delivering success beyond numbers,” she said.

She added that the organization remains committed to expanding financial inclusion and supporting entrepreneurs across Mauritius and Rodrigues.

Backed by MCB Group, one of Mauritius’ leading financial institutions, the microfinance subsidiary aims to build on its decade-long track record by deepening access to finance, promoting entrepreneurship, and supporting sustainable economic development in the region.

As competition in financial services intensifies and digital adoption accelerates, MCB Microfinance is positioning itself to play a larger role in empowering small businesses and driving inclusive growth.