
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is preparing a significant risk-sharing package with state-owned Ukreximbank to stimulate lending to Ukrainian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Under the proposed agreement, the EBRD may provide a guarantee of up to €50 million to cover 50% of the credit risk on a €100 million loan portfolio aimed at expanding access to finance for SMEs across strategic sectors of Ukraine’s economy.
A portion of this initiative includes targeted leasing and equipment financing. Through the EU4Business-EBRD credit line, an additional €20 million will be allocated to support long-term investments by Ukrainian SMEs seeking to modernize equipment and meet EU standards. Leasing is expected to be a key instrument in this effort, especially for upgrades involving sustainable and green technologies, at least 70% of the funding will be directed toward such environmentally focused investments.
In a parallel development, state-owned Oschadbank last week finalised an agreement with the EBRD, unlocking the third and final €75 million tranche within a €200 million risk-sharing facility. This capital is earmarked for SME lending and could include leasing arrangements to enhance productivity and resilience in private enterprises.
Meanwhile, the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, has announced plans to support state-owned PrivatBank through a risk-sharing mechanism that includes leasing as one of several financial tools. The IFC will cover up to 50% of the risks on new financial instruments — loans, guarantees, and leases — valued at up to $100 million. France will provide a first-loss guarantee of $22.5 million, representing 45% of the IFC’s risk share.
The initiative also emphasises inclusive finance. With support from the Dutch government, the IFC will offer up to $800,000 in financial incentives to promote women’s entrepreneurship. Using blended finance tools, the programme is expected to mobilise up to $120–150 million in total investment, opening new avenues for SME leasing and capital upgrades in Ukraine’s private sector.

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