KAZAKHSTAN SMALL BUSINESS PROGRAMME II

Within a framework structure, the EBRD would extend credit lines directly to selected Kazakh partner banks, which would on-lend the funds exclusively to micro and small enterprises (MSEs). This project is an expansion of the existing Kazakhstan Small Business Programme, launched in 1998. To enable Kazakh banks to successfully engage in MSE lending throughout their branch networks with the help of specialised technical assistance for training and institution building; expand and deepen broad regional and target group coverage by providing micro and small enterprises with reliable access to financing.

High transition impact will continue due to institution building and strengthening of participating banks, and the provision of continuous access to reliable finance to micro and small enterprises including those in remote, rural, and economically depressed regions. KSBP II would continue to provide a model to the local banking sector to engage in MSE finance.

The Kazakhstan Small Business Programme II (KSBP II) is the continuation of an already successful MSE finance facility in the amount of US$ 77.5 million that focuses on institution building in selected local commercial banks to deliver financial services to micro and small enterprises countrywide. The Facility will continue its cooperation with existing partner banks (Kazkommertsbank, Halyk Savings Bank, Bank Turan Alem, Almaty Merchant Bank, Bank Centre Credit, Temir Bank, Tsesna Bank) and will seek to enrol new partner banks whenever possible. All partner banks must meet and maintain EBRD’s standard eligibility criteria.

US$ 75 million (€85 million) framework of senior loans.

US$ 100 million framework facility to be co-financed by anticipated contributions from the International Finance Corporation. The total facility, including KSBP I would be US$ 177.5 million.

The partner banks will follow the EBRD's Environmental Procedures for Small and Micro Loans in relation to all sub-loans financed through the credit line. In implementing these procedures, the banks will assess potential environmental issues associated with sub-projects, which are required to comply, at a minimum, with local/national health, safety, environmental and public consultation requirements.

Technical cooperation funding is currently being sought.