Dashen Bank Gets €20 Million EIB Global Backing for Ethiopian Businesses

October 29, 2026 | By Semahegn Nigatu

Dashen Bank has secured a €20 million financing agreement with EIB Global, the development arm of the European Investment Bank (EIB), to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ethiopia, with a focus on agriculture, green investment and women-led businesses.

At least 70 percent of the financing portfolio will go to agricultural value chains and related activities, while at least 30 percent will support climate action and environmental protection. Another 30 percent will be allocated to promoting women’s economic participation, according to the agreement.

The financing is intended to improve access to long-term funding for Ethiopian businesses, with loan repayment periods aligned with the needs of productive investments. The partners expect the arrangement to help enterprises expand their operations and strengthen their market positions.

“Dashen Bank is committed to expanding access to finance for businesses that are key drivers of the Ethiopian economy,” said Asfaw Alemu, the bank’s chief executive officer.

Andrew McDowell, director-general of EIB Global, said the partnership would translate long-term financing into tangible growth opportunities for Ethiopian businesses.

The agreement places agricultural value chains at the centre of the financing programme, while directing funding towards environmental protection and women’s economic participation.

Source: FSX Business News