EBRD women financing support expands through EU partnership

The EBRD women financing support initiative is being strengthened through a new partnership involving the European Union and Banca Intesa, aiming to expand access to finance for women-led businesses and underserved entrepreneurs.

The programme seeks to address persistent financing gaps faced by women in emerging and developing markets. By combining risk-sharing mechanisms, advisory services and targeted credit lines, the EBRD women financing support framework is designed to enhance financial inclusion and promote sustainable economic growth.

EBRD women financing support and financial inclusion strategy

The EBRD women financing support initiative aligns with broader EU objectives to promote inclusive growth and reduce structural barriers in capital access. Women-owned businesses often face disproportionate challenges in securing loans, particularly in markets with underdeveloped financial infrastructure.

Through cooperation with local financial institutions such as Banca Intesa, the programme aims to improve lending capacity and expand tailored financial products. Advisory services are also expected to strengthen business resilience, governance standards and long-term competitiveness.

By mobilising public and private capital, the EBRD women financing support structure supports both economic empowerment and broader development objectives.

Economic and market implications

From a development finance perspective, increasing women’s participation in entrepreneurship can contribute significantly to GDP growth, employment creation and financial system diversification.

Banks participating in such programmes may also benefit from portfolio expansion and improved risk distribution through EU-backed guarantees.

Long-term outlook

The expansion of EBRD women financing support reflects a broader trend toward impact-driven financing models within European development institutions. Continued collaboration between multilateral lenders and private banks will be essential to sustain momentum and ensure measurable outcomes.

Source: EBRD