SME Finance Boost (Nigeria): Nigeria’s Federal Government backed the N100bn GuaranteeHer credit-guarantee scheme to unlock funding for 20,000 women-led MSMEs and support 150,000 jobs over five years. Insurance Risk for Growing Firms (South Africa): A new warning for SMBs: when contracts, stock, vehicles, or staff change mid-year, insurance gaps can appear after subsidy or renewal timing—owners are urged to update coverage as risk shifts. Local Business Support (Ireland): Mayo’s Local Enterprise Office is backing Van Velze’s Chocolates for the National Ploughing Championships’ Local Enterprise Village, with business advice and an AI help area for SMEs. Credit Data for Borrowers (Albania): Albania plans its first credit bureau to track loan and repayment history for individuals and businesses, aiming to speed lending decisions and reduce paperwork for reliable borrowers. Trade Crackdown Fallout (Kenya/Burundi): Kenya’s crackdown on foreign small-scale traders is driving crowds seeking travel documents and sparking political pushback over how it’s being handled. Tech for Makers (US): xTool unveiled its modular X1 laser system for small manufacturers and makers, designed to support multiple laser types in one setup.