Rural, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) struggle to obtain the capital they need to operate and expand their businesses. Yet, SMEs have the potential to provide much-needed employment for rural inhabitants, increase food security, and enhance a country’s export revenues.  The financial sector has historically viewed agriculture as a risky investment, subject to the vagaries of weather, seasons, and sometimes widely fluctuating prices. In addition, rural producers typically lack acceptable guarantees or collateral, an existing credit history, and bank-required paperwork..