The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is extending a €50 million loan to Türk Ekonomi Bankası (TEB) to support women-owned and -led micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises across Türkiye, according to an EBRD press release. The funding falls under the bank’s flagship €600 million Türkiye Women in Business II programme, which helps these businesses access finance and advisory services. With women making up nearly half of Türkiye’s population but having one of the OECD’s lowest labour force participation rates, the initiative aims to drive growth, cut inequality, and spur social inclusion.
At least 70% of the loan will target women-led MSMEs outside major cities, and 35% will reach new clients, filling key financing gaps in underserved areas. EBRD Deputy Head of Türkiye Oksana Yavorskaya said expanding opportunities for women is central to the country’s long-term growth, and this deal deepens their partnership with TEB to help more rural businesses invest and thrive.
TEB Senior Assistant General Manager Gökhan Mendi noted that boosting women entrepreneurs is vital for sustainable development. Since launching its Women’s Banking initiative in 2015, TEB has led the sector in tailored products that unlock economic potential through better financing access. The bank has a strong track record as an EBRD partner and will use the funds to grow its SME portfolio further.
The EBRD has committed nearly €23.9 billion in Türkiye since 2009, mostly to the private sector, making it one of the country’s largest institutional investors.
