The Green Business Support Credit (GBSC) Programme was launched in 2019 by the Samoa Business Hub (SBH) to provide vital financial support to micro enterprises and start-ups in Samoa. While the Samoa Business Loan Guarantee Scheme (SBLGS) caters to small, medium, and large enterprises, GBSC was specifically designed to support those at the very beginning of their entrepreneurial journey, particularly those unable to access the formal banking system.

The programme recognizes that many entrepreneurs possess strong potential and viable business ideas but are often excluded from traditional finance due to collateral requirements or limited credit history. GBSC bridges this gap by offering accessible loans of up to SAT $10,000, enabling start-ups and micro enterprises to build a solid foundation and contribute to Samoa’s broader economic development.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify under the Green Business Support Credit Programme, clients must meet the following criteria:

• Membership: Must be an active member of SBH’s Business Cohorts Program.

• Citizenship: Must be a Samoan citizen. If a resident, the client must be of Samoan descent or legally recognized through civil union.

• Business Operations: Must be actively operating a business. For start-ups, the client must demonstrate a genuine business interest, with viability assessed by an SBH Business Support Officer.

• Age Requirement: Must be between 21–50 years old. Applicants above this age range must apply with a co-borrower.

• Family Limitation: Only one guarantee per immediate family is permitted. Exceptions may be granted where the family operates two or more genuine and unrelated business projects.

• Compliance: Businesses across all sectors of the economy are eligible, except those that violate any laws or regulations particularly in relation to environmental protection, labor laws, and cyber security standards.

The Green Business Support Credit (GBSC) Programme reinforces SBH’s commitment to inclusive growth by extending credit to entrepreneurs who would otherwise be left behind. By combining financial support with capacity building through the Business Cohorts Program, GBSC ensures that clients not only access credit but also receive the guidance and support necessary for long-term success.