This book analyses and confronts the functioning of guarantee systems for SMEs in countries where these schemes had an important development. The book also highlights how the current financial crisis is modifying the guarantees schemes, through policy maker interventions.

This book offers a comprehensive comparative analysis of the microcredit guarantee funds adopted in three South European countries and in three North African countries. It focuses on three keys areas: analysis of the regulatory framework, mapping of microcredit institutions and analysis of the main features of guarantee funds.