EIB Group and Ameriabank strengthen support for Armenian businesses

The European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Investment Fund (EIF) – jointly the EIB Group – are joining forces with Ameriabank to expand access to finance for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Armenia. 

Ameriabank reports that the operation consists of a partial portfolio guarantee, enabling Ameriabank to build a portfolio of new loans of up to €106.25 million, supporting business growth and economic resilience.

This new initiative builds on the existing partnership between the EIB and Ameriabank and represents the second direct operation between the institutions. It aims to improve access to finance for Armenian MSMEs, particularly those that face challenges in obtaining affordable funding.

The operation is expected to benefit approximately 900 MSMEs and sustain over 5 000 jobs across Armenia, contributing to the country’s economic development and private-sector growth.

The signing ceremony took place in Yerevan, with Chief Financial Officer of Ameriabank Hovhannes Toroyan and EIB Vice-President Karl Nehammer. Ambassador of the European Union to Armenia Vassilis Maragos addressed the event on behalf of the European Union.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Armenia’s economy, and access to finance can make all the difference for their growth. With this agreement, we are creating real opportunities for entrepreneurs to invest, expand and build more resilient businesses. It’s about making sure good ideas are not held back by lack of funding,” said EIB Vice-President Karl Nehammer, who oversees the bank’s operations in Armenia.

The guarantee is made possible thanks to financial support under the EU4Business Guarantee Facility. This initiative is part of the European Union’s broader efforts to promote sustainable economic development, enhance competitiveness and foster innovation in Armenia.

“Supporting small businesses means supporting jobs, innovation and the long-term prosperity of Armenia. Through this partnership with Ameriabank and the European Investment Bank, we are helping Armenian companies access the financing they need to grow, diversify and find new markets. The guarantee signed today is a practical example of our deepening political and economic cooperation, based on the recently adopted Strategic Agenda for the EU-Armenia Partnership. The Strategic Agenda reaffirms the European Union’s commitment to supporting Armenia in strengthening its societal resilience and economic competitiveness, which go hand in hand with private investment and the creation of new jobs,” commented EU Ambassador to Armenia Vassilis Maragos.

“Supporting small businesses is a strategic direction for Ameriabank, and this partnership allows us to reach even more businesses that are ready to grow but need the right financial support to do so. By expanding access to financing, we will continue to help entrepreneurs turn their plans into reality, strengthen their operations, and – most importantly – contribute more actively to Armenia’s economy. Our partnership is about enabling progress where it matters most,” concluded Chief Financial Officer of Ameriabank Hovhannes Toroyan.