CAF has allocated USD 137 million to Banco Pichincha to support green financing initiatives and women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ecuador. This A/B loan, which was finalized and fully disbursed in December 2024, aims to enhance sustainable growth in Ecuador’s productive sector, with a particular focus on projects that empower women entrepreneurs and promote environmental sustainability.
The loan structure involved six prominent Ibero-American institutions as B participants: Banco Santander, Bladex, Banco Continental, BHD International Bank (Panama), Unibank, and Banco Aliado, collectively mobilizing USD 107 million.
In its role as Lead Arranger, CAF has emphasized its commitment to mobilizing private capital while adhering to the methodologies established by Multilateral Banks. This initiative not only strengthens CAF’s green financing strategy but also supports gender equality in credit access, underscoring the trust placed in Banco Pichincha.
The funds will specifically target projects that foster the development of women-led MSMEs and environmentally sustainable business initiatives. This includes financing companies that engage in efficient energy management and the establishment of green businesses.
CAF continues to position itself as a key player in mobilizing private sector resources for impactful projects across the region. This operation reinforces its strategy of creating innovative financial solutions that drive economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. With this funding, CAF reaffirms its dedication to green financing and gender inclusion while enhancing the capabilities of Ecuador’s private sector.
Antonio Silveira, CAF’s vice president for the private sector, remarked that this operation exemplifies collaborative efforts to bolster a vital sector of the Ecuadorian economy—micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises.
Santiago Bayas, General Manager of Banco Pichincha, highlighted that this financing reflects the confidence of regional and global banks in Banco Pichincha’s mission to support micro-entrepreneurs and sustainability initiatives. He noted CAF’s longstanding partnership and expressed hopes for continued collaboration on shared long-term goals.
Ultimately, this loan signifies a strategic alliance between CAF and the international financial community, showcasing how A/B operations can enhance access to financing for a broader range of projects supported by the expertise and strength of participating institutions.
