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IFC Partners With Armenian Banks to Boost Financial Inclusion, Support Climate Projects
IFC signed agreements with three Armenian banks to enhance access to finance for smaller businesses, including women-owned and rural enterprises and climate projects.
Smaller businesses are key drivers of economic growth, innovation, and employment in Armenia, with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) accounting for the majority of jobs. But they face a $1.1 billion finance gap because of challenges including limited collateral and poor financial management. Women-owned MSMEs face even greater hurdles, with many less likely to hold collateral or have access to formal bank accounts and loans.