Kazakhstan and EBRD Extend SME Support Program to 2030

The Ministry of National Economy of Kazakhstan and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRR) have agreed to extend their joint program for supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) until 2030. The decision was formalized during the XIII annual meeting of the program's Coordination Committee in Astana.

Vice Minister of National Economy Yerlan Sagynayev, who participated in the meeting, highlighted the program's achievements since its inception in 2013. Over this period, more than 2,700 consulting projects have been financed, and over 300 training events have been conducted. This support has led to the creation of approximately 10,000 jobs. Notably, within a year and a half after completing their projects, 17% of participating enterprises successfully transitioned to a larger business segment.

"Cooperation with the EBRR remains a crucial instrument for supporting small and medium-sized businesses," stated Sagynayev. "The extension of the Program until 2030 confirms mutual trust and our focus on achieving further results. We see a concrete effect from the implemented projects—new jobs, company growth, and strengthened market positions."

Building on this successful track record, a new initiative titled "Enhancing Investment Attractiveness of Medium-Sized Enterprises" has been launched. This direction is specifically aimed at companies with significant potential for further growth.

Simona Ze Atanasovski, Head of EBRR's Advisory Services Program in Central Asia and Mongolia, emphasized that special attention is now being given to supporting medium-sized enterprises that are industry leaders with ambitions for expansion within Kazakhstan.

The meeting also featured an open dialogue with entrepreneurs participating in the program. Business representatives underscored the importance of state support in expanding export opportunities, developing the industrial sector, and implementing innovative projects.