Windhoek: Namibia on Thursday launched the SME Fund, a grant funding and business support initiative aimed at helping micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) expand operations, improve competitiveness and create jobs. The fund, introduced through the Promotion of Small and Medium Enterprises Development in Namibia (ProSME) Project, will provide successful applicants with grants ranging from N.dollars 50,000 to N.dollars 100,000, alongside business development services and market access support. According to Namibia Press Agency, the initiative is being implemented through a partnership between the National Planning Commission (NPC), the Namibia Investment Promotion and Development Board (NIPDB), and the Deutsche Gesellschaft fr Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), with funding from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. Speaking at the launch, NIPDB Acting Chief Executive Officer Jessica Hauuanga said the fund is designed to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Namibi an enterprises. 'The SME Fund represents a deliberate effort to move beyond transactional support and invest in the long-term competitiveness of Namibian enterprises,' she said. Hauuanga added that by combining grant funding with business development services and market access opportunities, the initiative would equip businesses with the capacity to grow, create employment and compete in domestic and international markets. The fund is open to registered Namibian MSMEs with annual turnovers of up to N.dollars 10 million and at least 51 percent Namibian ownership and control. Priority will be given to women and youth-led businesses operating in agriculture, tourism, information and communication technology, and manufacturing. GIZ Namibia Country Director Tobias Gerster said Namibia and Germany share a commitment to creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and building an inclusive economy. 'Germany is proud to stand alongside Namibia in this endeavour, and we look forward to further strengthening our partner ship as we work together to build a dynamic, inclusive and resilient financial sector,' he said. NIPDB said the fund combines financial assistance with mentorship, production support and guidance aimed at helping businesses access new markets and improve long-term performance. Applications for the first funding cycle opened on 10 June and will close on 24 July 2026.