The Asian Development Bank has completed a $100 million loan agreement alongside Ameriabank Closed Joint Stock Company to improve financing options for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in Armenia. The capital deployment represents the largest private sector operation conducted by the ADB within Armenia to date. The financial package aims to help local firms scale up operations, increase productivity and implement sustainable business practices.
The specific terms of the transaction allocate up to 75 per cent of the total loan towards standard MSME lending. Concurrently, at least 25 per cent of the capital is earmarked exclusively for green finance initiatives, which will include energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy projects. The deployment criteria also stipulate that a minimum of 10 per cent of the overall financing must target women-owned MSMEs.
Smaller businesses play a vital role in the Armenian economy, generating nearly 70 per cent of total national employment and representing over 65 per cent of the country’s gross domestic product. Despite this economic significance, local operators frequently experience limited access to long-term commercial finance.
To complement the principal loan package, the ADB is delivering an additional technical assistance grant of up to $125,000. This capital will be used to develop Ameriabank’s corporate infrastructure. The program includes targeted funding to upgrade financial integrity systems and construct a dedicated sustainability competence center. Currently, Ameriabank stands as the largest lender operating in Armenia.
Official statements regarding the transaction were issued by executives from both participating institutions:
“This project will expand access to finance for MSMEs—especially women-owned enterprises—while supporting green investments in Armenia,” said ADB Armenia Country Director Lyaziza Sabyrova. “By providing longer-term financing, we are helping businesses scale, create jobs, and strengthen resilience to climate-related risks.”
“We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with the ADB in supporting MSMEs across Armenia through greater access to affordable financing. As Armenia’s largest lender, with a strong focus on green and sustainable finance, we remain committed to driving inclusive growth and supporting the country’s long-term economic development,” said Hovhannes Toroyan, Chief Financial Officer at Ameriabank.
