The International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, has announced a proposed US$250 million sustainable subordinated debt investment in Banco de Crédito del Perú (BCP). The initiative aims to expand access to finance for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including women‑owned businesses, while scaling lending for sustainable construction and climate‑resilient agriculture. These sectors are vital for Peru’s development but face challenges from limited access to long‑term finance and increasing climate risks.
BCP’s CEO Diego Cavero stated that the transaction will consolidate the bank’s sustainability strategy, supporting projects that generate economic value alongside social and environmental impact. IFC’s Regional Director Elizabeth Martinez de Marcano emphasized that sustainable finance is essential for job creation, noting that the investment will mobilize private capital toward sectors with long‑term benefits for people and the economy.
The project will expand SME financing, with a focus on women entrepreneurs who face greater barriers to credit. It will also boost lending for energy‑ and water‑efficient buildings certified under international green standards, reducing emissions and household costs while addressing housing needs. In agriculture, financing will help rural producers adapt to droughts, floods, and extreme weather, strengthening productivity and resilience.
Beyond financing, IFC will provide advisory services and capacity building to support sustainable construction finance products, promote green building certification, and encourage resilient agricultural practices. This combined approach is expected to create demonstration effects that encourage other financial institutions to expand sustainable lending in Peru.
The investment is supported by IFC’s Market Accelerator for Green Construction (MAGC), a blended finance program backed by the United Kingdom. MAGC incentivizes financial intermediaries to expand green construction lending across emerging markets.
BCP, Peru’s largest and oldest financial institution, has a history dating back to 1889 and is recognized for its leadership and innovation in the market. IFC’s investment reflects a broader effort to strengthen Peru’s financial sector, foster inclusive growth, and build resilience against climate challenges.
