Based on recent studies developed within the framework of ECLAC’s project on financial inclusion of SMEs and development banks innovation policies, Professor and economic and financial consultant, Luis Alberto Zuleta J., highlights in his column how the role of Bancóldex has changed in the last decade. In the last ten years Bancóldex has focused on:

• Diversifying its services for different business segments, mainly exporters
• Developing a range of useful products for companies
• Innovating new financial products and services to improve access to financial products, through its branch Banca de las Oportunidades
• Strengthening the guarantee program of the National Guarantee Fund (FNG)

Future endeavors would be to focus on the demand side of financial products to improve financial inclusion, as well as to promote financial education programs for distinct business segments.