ADDIS ABABA September 6, 2025– VisionFund Microfinance has signed a $30 million loan agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), marking a major milestone in Ethiopia’s financial sector. This agreement represents IFC’s first-ever local currency loan (in Ethiopian Birr) to a financial institution in the country.
VisionFund Microfinance has signed a $30 million loan agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), with an initial disbursement of $10 million. The loan is intended to expand credit access for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Ethiopia, with at least half specifically allocated to businesses that are women-owned, women-led, or where women make up the majority of employees.
In addition to financing, IFC’s targeted advisory services will strengthen our strategic business planning, risk management, and responsible finance practices as we advance to the next stage of our development.
Ato Taye Chimdessa, the CEO of VisionFund Microfinance, stated that the partnership will reinforce the institution’s dedication to inclusive finance. He further noted that it will significantly improve VisionFund’s capacity to deliver effective financial services to clients and the wider community, thereby enabling them to achieve their objectives.
Ethiopis Tafara, IFC Vice President for Africa, said the investment shows IFC’s strong commitment to supporting inclusive economic growth in Ethiopia. He noted that the partnership with VisionFund Microfinance will create lasting benefits for small businesses, especially those led by women, while also strengthening the country’s financial sector.
