Context:
Jordan’s economy faces persistent challenges. Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) continue to struggle with limited access to finance, while high unemployment hits women and youth hardest. Climate-related risks threaten business continuity and economic resilience. Although MSMEs make up 96 per cent of all enterprises and generate around 70 per cent of private sector employment, they receive only 11 per cent of total bank lending.
Moreover, women-led businesses encounter additional barriers through restrictive lending rules and unsuitable products. At the same time, Jordan is advancing its transition towards a greener economythrough national strategies.
Objective:
MSMEs in Jordan benefit from an inclusive and climate-friendly financial system that enables growth and quality employment.
Approach:
Implemented nationwide in close cooperation with the Central Bank of Jordan, the project applies a systemic, multi-stakeholder approach across the financial ecosystem:
It supports the Central Bank of Jordan in implementing its Green Finance Strategy and strengthening regulatory and supervisory frameworks through skills development and technical cooperation with international partners such as Cenfri and the Toronto Centre.
The project enables banks, microfinance institutions, fintech companies, guarantee schemes, payment service providers, and industry associations to develop and scale inclusive green financial products tailored to MSMEs.
It strengthens the financial readiness of MSMEs through training and tailored advisory services, with a particular focus on addressing barriers faced by women-led businesses and other underserved groups.