This systematic review investigates the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and financial technology (FinTech) innovations on small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) financing, with a focus on enhancing transparency, efficiency, and financial inclusion. Despite the significant potential of AI and FinTech, substantial gaps remain in understanding their cross-regional and cross-industry effects, as well as in addressing persistent challenges such as AI adoption barriers, regulatory constraints, and decentralized data integration. The review synthesizes findings from peer-reviewed articles published from 2024 onward, sourced from Scopus and Web of Science databases, and examines the role of AI-driven solutions and digital financial platforms in SME financing. Results indicate that AI applications in risk assessment and credit scoring have reduced processing times by approximately 40% and improved loan approval rates by 25%. FinTech innovations have contributed to a 30% increase in financial inclusion, particularly among underserved SMEs in emerging economies. However, critical challenges, including data privacy concerns and limited technological infrastructure, continue to hinder broader adoption. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by systematically highlighting the role of AI and FinTech in enhancing SME financial performance and by providing actionable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and entrepreneurs. The findings underscore the need for future research to address adoption barriers and to conduct cross-country comparative studies. Limitations include the exclusive focus on English-language, peer-reviewed sources, which may restrict the generalizability of the conclusions. Further investigations are recommended to explore the long-term impact of AI and FinTech innovations on SME sustainability and the evolution of regulatory frameworks supporting their implementation.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.35741/issn.0258-2724.60.2.6
Publish Year: 2025
