PARIS, March 24 (Reuters) - U.S. bank JPMorganChase

announced on Tuesday a funding programme of 2.8 million

euros ($3.3 million) to help finance small businesses in France.

"Small businesses are the backbone of the French economy,

and supporting entrepreneurs - especially those from underserved

backgrounds - is critical to driving inclusive economic growth,"

said Thierry Sancier, senior country officer for JPMorganChase

France, in a statement.

($1 = 0.8622 euros)