DBM Business Loan Scheme

The DBM Business Loan Scheme is the Development Bank of Mauritius's main loan for small businesses. It took over from the old 3.5% MSME Financing Scheme, which has been withdrawn, so if you were counting on that one, this is where DBM will point you now. It is a general-purpose business loan, meaning you can use it to start a business, buy equipment, expand premises or fund working capital tied to a project.

DBM finances up to 90% of your project cost, so you only need to bring 10% in own funds. The maximum loan is Rs 25,000,000, and you can repay over up to 7 years, including a moratorium period at the start when you pay little or nothing while your project gets going. On interest, Budget 2026-2027 set DBM lending at 6% per year for SMEs and 3% per year for micro-enterprises, which is still very cheap compared to commercial bank rates.

The scheme is open to Mauritian citizens and residents running or starting a business. DBM covers a wide spread of sectors, including trade, transport, construction, jewellery, tourism, services, professionals such as doctors or accountants setting up practice, and startups. If your activity is legal and you can show a workable project, there is a good chance you fit.

To apply, go to dbm.mu and use the online application, or walk into a DBM branch. Bring your business registration details, a simple business plan or project write-up, quotations for the equipment or works you want financed, and proof that you have your 10% contribution ready. A DBM officer will assess the project and may ask for security depending on the amount.