- Financing will support MSMEs and expand regional outreach across Armenia
- Funding includes a significant green financing component
- Capacity-building initiatives will boost inclusion, green investment and gender equality
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has approved a loan package of up to €150 million for Ameriabank, one of Armenia’s leading financial institutions. The facility, which is being provided in two tranches – an initial €100 million commitment plus a further €50 million – will enable Ameriabank to deliver financing to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) with a strong focus on reaching regional clients and new borrowers.
This initiative will also support Armenia’s transition to a green economy, as Ameriabank is committed to allocating at least 40 per cent of the proceeds to eligible green investments increasing resource efficiency and the generation of renewable energy. In addition, technical cooperation with a value of around €170,000 – funded by the EBRD’s Small Business Impact Fund – will support the implementation and monitoring of green projects, with Ameriabank also contributing to this initiative. Further EU-funded advisory and capacity-building programmes with a total value of up to €75,000 will enhance MSMEs’ competitiveness, innovation and export readiness.
George Akhalkatsi, the EBRD’s Head of Armenia, said: “This facility will play a key role in strengthening Armenia’s private sector and accelerating its green transition. Ameriabank’s strong market presence and commitment to innovation and the development of the MSME sector make it a strong partner for the EBRD’s strategic priorities in the region.”
Artak Hanesyan, CEO of Ameriabank commented: “We are proud to be strengthening our partnership with the EBRD and expanding our MSME and green lending portfolios. This collaboration will enhance our ability to support Armenian businesses, drive economic growth and promote sustainable development throughout the country.”
The transaction is in line with the EBRD’s country strategy for Armenia and its Financial Sector Strategy, as well as the Green Economy Transition Approach and the Strategy for the Promotion of Gender Equality. Ameriabank’s leadership in the fields of digital transformation, regional outreach and inclusive finance puts it at the forefront of Armenia’s banking sector. Ameriabank is the largest lender of the Armenian economy and the second largest by total assets in the banking sector. Through its digital solutions and 26 branches in major cities and the country’s most populous regions, Ameriabank has the capacity to reach a wide range of private-sector entities. Ameriabank is majority owned by Lion Finance Group, a holding company listed on the London Stock Exchange. The EBRD is a minority shareholder.
Since launching its operations in Armenia in 1992, the EBRD has invested nearly €2.6 billion in 232 projects across the financial, corporate, infrastructure and energy sectors, with 83 per cent of funding supporting the development of the private sector.