Disaster Relief Deadlines: FEMA and Michigan officials updated storm-flood payouts: nearly $10.9m in FEMA grants, $1.4m in SBA disaster loans, and $5.3m in flood insurance claims across 27 counties, with applications due Aug. 31. SME Trade Tech: Vietnam’s trade promotion agency is partnering to help SMEs adopt AI and digital tools for export growth, with training and new data/connection platforms planned to 2030. SME Lending Pulse: A new report says small-business lending is gaining traction even as broader markets face headwinds, pointing to improved pricing and faster access from banks and non-bank lenders. Banking for Growth: Nigeria’s FG says it has registered 500,000 MSMEs in a national database to improve targeting and support, alongside major investment and export commitments. Alternative Finance in Kenya: Coverage highlights how SACCOs, fintech and DFIs are bridging Kenya’s MSME financing gap by leaning on savings, cash flow and community guarantees. Policy for Entrepreneurs: Guyana’s President signed the Guyana Development Bank Act, setting up a new bank with collateral-light, zero-interest loans up to $3m plus business support. Workforce & Inclusion: Visa appoints former Airtel Money Kenya CEO Anne Kinuthia-Otieno to lead East Africa operations, aiming to expand digital payments and financial inclusion. SME Digital Governance: Hainan’s free trade port rolled out new institutional integration reforms, cutting declaration items and speeding clearance for enterprises. Local Business Reality Check: A Sydney Greek deli shut after 54 years, blaming rising costs and import pressures—another sign of strain on family SMEs.