Damu Fund Launches New Preferential Lending Program for Small and Medium Businesses

The Entrepreneurship Development Fund "Damu", in collaboration with the Ministry of National Economy and the "Baiterek" Holding, has announced the launch of a new preferential lending program called "Өrleu". The initiative aims to support micro, small, and medium-sized businesses, including entrepreneurs in the agro-industrial complex and the manufacturing sector.

According to the fund, the total amount of financing under the program will reach 750 billion tenge. Of this, 300 billion tenge will be allocated by the fund itself, while the remaining 450 billion will be attracted from second-tier banks through a co-financing mechanism.

The interest rate for borrowers will not exceed 12.6% per annum, making the program one of the most affordable on the market for entrepreneurs seeking to modernize production facilities, develop logistics, or replenish working capital.
The program covers three key areas:
• Investment purposes – loans of up to 7 billion tenge with a financing term of up to 10 years;
• Working capital – loans of up to 3.5 billion tenge with a term of up to 3 years;
• Refinancing of previously issued loans (no earlier than January 1, 2025) – with a term limited to the remaining period of the original debt.

"Damu" emphasized that support will focus on priority sectors of the economy, including manufacturing, food production, transport, and warehousing. These sectors are considered key to ensuring sustainable economic growth and expanding the country’s production base.

To participate in the program, entrepreneurs should apply directly to participating banks. As of now, agreements have been signed with Freedom Bank, Bank CenterCredit, and Halyk Bank.