Given the limitations of SMEs and the rigid requirements of financial institutions, this paper evaluates the bridge which connects those ends. The purpose of the paper is to find smooth connections between SMEs and financial institutions in order to enhance the quality credits given to SMEs. The literature came from qualified international academic journals and papers, reports from prominent global institutions, and reports from the Indonesian government which are related to their policies towards SMEs and financial institutions. Comparisons were made among countries around the world regarding the policies applied to their SMEs and financial institutions. This paper looks specifically at the global challenges related to Indonesian SMEs to reach sustainable growth. Collaborations between the government, financial institutions, and SMEs are needed. The roles of financial inclusion, financial literacy, innovation lending, and the government are important measures to support SMEs' developments.