MauBank has been named “Best Bank in Financial Education and Inclusion – Mauritius” by the 2025 Global Banking and Finance Awards, organised by The European, a respected UK-based economic publication known for its strategic analysis and global reach.
This recognition honours institutions committed to sustainable progress in the banking sector. It acknowledges MauBank’s active role in improving access to financing in Mauritius through a targeted and integrated approach to financial and economic inclusion—particularly for women entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and underserved segments with limited access to finance.
Launched in March 2024 on International Women’s Day, ElleBoost reflects MauBank’s commitment to removing structural barriers to credit for women entrepreneurs. The programme supports those whose businesses remain informal or underdeveloped by facilitating formalisation, strengthening business models, and opening access to tailored financing—a true springboard to entrepreneurial autonomy.
By making traditionally excluded profiles bankable, ElleBoost exemplifies the inclusive, high-impact approach praised by the Global Banking and Finance Awards jury:
“MauBank has not simply designed a product, but a comprehensive framework that opens access to finance with clarity and confidence.”
In the same spirit, MauBank’s support for SMEs has significantly contributed to the post-COVID economic recovery. Between July 2023 and April 2024, credit disbursements rose by 75%, driven by the SME LokalBoost programme and targeted campaigns. During the same period, the number of supported SME clients grew by over 90%, and the volume of approved loans increased by 140%, reflecting both rising demand and growing confidence in the bank’s support model.
“Financial inclusion is not a one-off initiative. It requires a deep understanding of on-the-ground realities, the ability to constantly adapt, and a rigorous, human-centred approach. This is the logic guiding us as we build a fairer, more accessible banking model focused on sustainable inclusion,” said Vishuene Vydelingum, CEO of MauBank.
Supporting this vision, Deputy CEO Issa Soormally added:
“We’ve observed that many entrepreneurs, while skilled in their fields, often struggle to structure their operations in ways that meet banking requirements—whether it’s in formal presentation, cash flow management, or financial structuring. This is where MauBank steps in, offering targeted guidance and the right tools to turn potential into growth.”
In collaboration with civil society and community actors, MauBank also rolls out targeted financial literacy programmes designed to meet the real needs of groups still largely excluded from traditional banking networks, such as the elderly, low-income households, and vulnerable populations.
The jury of the Global Banking and Finance Awards praised the strength of MauBank’s model, its robust governance framework, and the measurable impact of its initiatives—particularly its ability to bridge the gap between the informal economy and structured finance.
In a constantly evolving financial environment, MauBank continues to prioritise local engagement and personalised support, placing people at the heart of its vision for inclusive growth. SMEs, which contribute over 42% of Mauritius’ GDP, are a pillar of the national economy. Their empowerment requires stronger public-private collaboration to accelerate innovation and digital transformation. Building on this model, MauBank now plans to extend its inclusive approach to other vulnerable segments while strengthening its public-private partnerships.
About The European
The European is a quarterly UK-based economic publication with international circulation among decision-makers and senior executives. It covers core themes such as finance, investment, sustainability (ESG), energy, and innovation. Renowned for its strategic insight and global reach, it organises the annual Global Business, Banking & Finance Awards, which celebrate excellence across the international economic community.
