Rather than a direct investment in 4G Capital, IFC is providing a first-loss guarantee, allowing participating lenders to extend more credit by reducing the risk associated with lending to underserved businesses. Across the three transactions, IFC has committed $24.2 million, backed by $11 million from the IDA PSW. For 4G Capital, the agreement marks its first partnership with IFC and strengthens its ability to provide working capital to entrepreneurs who have traditionally been underserved by the formal financial sector. Julian Mitchell, CEO of 4G Capital, welcomed the partnership, saying access to working capital remains the biggest obstacle facing many small businesses, particularly those owned by women. “The biggest challenge for micro and small businesses is access to working capital, particularly for women-owned enterprises.