Ameriabank and ADB Sign $100 Million Deal to Boost Green and MSME Finance in Armenia
Lion Finance Group PLC (the “Company” or the “Group”) announces that its banking subsidiary in Armenia, Ameriabank CJSC (the “Bank” or “Ameriabank”), has recently secured a loan package of up to USD 100 million from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to expand access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), including women-led businesses, and to scale up green investments. This project represents ADB’s largest private sector transaction in Armenia to date.
The financing package includes:
• Up to 75% of the funds designated for on-lending to MSMEs, with at least 10% specifically for women-owned businesses and at least 25% allocated for green finance projects, such as renewable energy and energy efficiency.
• Up to $125,000 in technical assistance from ADB to strengthen Ameriabank’s sustainability framework and systems.
Lyaziza Sabyrova, ABD’s Armenia Country Director, commented: “This project will expand access to finance for MSMEs – especially women-owned enterprises – while advancing green investments in Armenia. By providing longer-term financing, we are supporting businesses to grow, create jobs, and contribute to a more inclusive and climate-resilient economy.”
Hovhannes Toroyan, Chief Financial Officer at Ameriabank, commented: “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.”
Giorgi Shagidze, CFO of Lion Finance Group PLC, commented: “We are delighted to deepen our partnership with ADB. This facility will enable Ameriabank to continue empowering entrepreneurs across the country. The dedicated funding for green projects and women-owned enterprises underscores our shared commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive economy. I would also like to thank the teams involved for their collaboration and continued support throughout the process.”
