The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has announced a financing package of up to US$ 50 million for KMF Bank in Kazakhstan to strengthen lending to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), with a strong focus on women-led businesses.
The loan is part of a broader effort to expand access to finance for private sector businesses across Kazakhstan. It includes a senior loan of up to US$ 40 million dedicated to MSME lending, which will be disbursed in either US dollars or Kazakh tenge. A further US$ 10 million will be allocated under the Kazakhstan Women in Business Programme II to support enterprises owned or led by women.
In addition to financing, the initiative will provide advisory services, training, mentoring, and networking opportunities through the EBRD’s “Advice for Small Businesses” programme. These support measures are designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen business management skills and improve long-term sustainability.
The project is backed by the Government of Kazakhstan and reflects ongoing cooperation between the country and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. To date, the bank has invested nearly US$ 12.8 billion across 354 projects in Kazakhstan, making it one of the institution’s most significant markets in Central Asia.
By channeling funds through KMF Bank, the financing aims to improve access to credit for smaller businesses, which are often underserved by traditional banking systems. The inclusion of a dedicated women-in-business component highlights a growing emphasis on gender-inclusive economic development and financial empowerment.
Overall, the programme is expected to support job creation, entrepreneurship, and private sector growth while strengthening financial inclusion in Kazakhstan’s MSME sector.
