FTI SME Funding Connect Platform Launched to Address SME Liquidity Shortages with Health Check Tool

Key summary

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) is set to launch the FTI SME Funding Connect platform on October 28, 2026, aimed at resolving liquidity issues for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) by connecting them with financial institutions. The initiative, developed through the Institute of Manufacturing SMEs (SMI), will link SMEs with eight financial institutions to provide access to suitable financial products. A key component is the 'SME Health Check' tool, which allows entrepreneurs to assess their business readiness, including financial status and capital needs, before applying for loans. This assessment helps businesses understand their own capabilities and limitations regarding financing conditions such as data requirements, collateral, or lender criteria.

Veerachai Manasindhorn, Deputy President of FTI and Chairman of SMI, highlighted that the primary challenge for Thai SMEs is not just a lack of capital but also insufficient readiness and information to access it. Some businesses have potential but cannot secure loans due to data limitations or specific lender conditions, while others are unaware of which funding sources suit their needs. The platform aims to reduce mismatches between business requirements and available financing options.

The initiative supports SMEs seeking working capital for production expansion, machinery upgrades, technology investment, innovation development, or entering international markets. FTI plans to expand the platform's role in the future by connecting with government agencies and other funding bodies offering support for business development, productivity enhancement, technology adoption, and market expansion.

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), expressed interest in the FTI SME Funding Connect operations and is prepared to discuss appropriate cooperation models to support Thai SMEs in accessing trade finance and enhancing business capabilities. This aligns with WTO's focus on reducing barriers for small enterprises in international trade.