Brac bank introduces climate finance for women-led smes

BRAC Bank has partnered with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), UN Women, and BASE under the EmPower: Women for Climate-Resilient Societies programme to launch a new climate finance scheme for women-led small and medium enterprises (WSMEs) in Bangladesh's coastal regions.
Coordinated by BASE, the initiative aims to empower women and marginalised groups by enhancing access to climate finance for renewable energy solutions within their businesses.
With financial and technical support from the Centre for Entrepreneurship Development (CED) at BRAC University, BRAC Bank will introduce a USD 3 million loan portfolio aimed at supporting women entrepreneurs. The financial solutions will be designed to help WSMEs operate sustainably while adapting to environmental challenges.
The project also includes training, product development, and research to strengthen the framework for sustainable finance across Cottage, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (CMSMEs).
Syed Abdul Momen, Additional Managing Director and Head of SME Banking at BRAC Bank, said: "Women entrepreneurs are driving change in some of the most climate-affected parts of the country, yet they remain underserved by traditional finance. Through this initiative, we are designing financial solutions that reflect their realities, supporting their businesses today and strengthening their ability to adapt for tomorrow."
The programme highlights BRAC Bank's continued commitment to responsible banking, climate action, and inclusive financial solutions that promote economic empowerment.