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)

(Reporting by Sudip Kar-Gupta; Editing by Susan Fenton)