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Representing Zambia's artisanal and small-scale minersLusaka, Zambia

Access to Finance

Connecting small-scale miners with funding, equipment finance, investment partners and business support opportunities for sustainable growth.

Unlocking Growth Through Finance

Access to finance is one of the biggest challenges facing small-scale miners. Without adequate funding, many miners struggle to acquire equipment, improve productivity, expand operations and meet market demand.

SSMAZ works to support financial inclusion by helping members become more investment-ready and by linking them to financiers, investors, development partners and equipment suppliers.

Access to finance for small-scale miners

Common Financing Challenges

Many miners have strong potential but face barriers when seeking funding.

Limited Collateral

Many miners lack the assets traditionally required by lenders.

Weak Financial Records

Poor record keeping makes it difficult for funders to assess business performance.

High Equipment Costs

Mining and processing equipment often requires capital beyond what miners can raise alone.

Limited Investor Networks

Many miners do not have direct access to credible investors and financing institutions.

Business Planning Gaps

Some miners need support to prepare business plans, budgets and growth projections.

Perceived Sector Risk

Financial institutions often view small-scale mining as high risk without proper documentation.

How SSMAZ Supports Members

Helping miners prepare, connect and grow.

Investment Readiness

Helping members improve records, business plans and operational presentation.

Financial Literacy

Supporting better understanding of budgeting, loan readiness and cost control.

Funding Linkages

Connecting members to banks, investors, development partners and funding programmes.

Equipment Finance Support

Facilitating discussions with suppliers and financiers for equipment acquisition.

Business Development

Helping members strengthen business models and identify growth opportunities.

Advocacy for Inclusive Finance

Engaging stakeholders to improve access to finance for small-scale miners.

Potential Sources of Finance

SSMAZ helps members understand and explore different financing options.

✓ Equipment Financing
✓ Investor Partnerships
✓ Commercial Bank Loans
✓ Development Finance Institutions
✓ Cooperative Financing
✓ Microfinance Institutions
✓ Government Support Programmes
✓ Donor and Development Partner Programmes

Finance Readiness Pathway

A practical journey toward becoming fundable and investment-ready.

1

Prepare Records

2

Build Business Case

3

Identify Funding Needs

4

Connect With Funders

5

Grow Operations

Ready to Unlock Financing Opportunities?

Join SSMAZ and gain access to networks, support and opportunities that can help your mining operation become stronger, more productive and investment-ready.

Become a Member