IFC has announced a $100 million investment in QNB Finansal Kiralama A.Ş. (QNB Leasing), a leading leasing company and subsidiary of QNB Türkiye, to expand access to energy transition financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Türkiye. The five-year loan aims to support sustainable energy financing and promote pioneering blue finance initiatives, enhancing resilience in the country’s leasing sector. Notably, at least 10% of the funds will be allocated to blue finance activities, focusing on the sustainable use of water resources and boosting productivity.
In Türkiye, SMEs represent 99% of all businesses, yet they often face difficulties in obtaining long-term capital for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. With this investment, QNB Leasing will offer tailored financing solutions, enabling SMEs to upgrade equipment, reduce energy costs, and adopt greener practices. Furthermore, the partnership will help QNB Leasing launch dedicated blue lending projects, which support sustainable water management and conservation. This initiative aligns with Türkiye’s broader efforts to transition to a more sustainable economy.
Osman Tas, General Manager of QNB Leasing, stated, “At QNB Leasing, we believe that sustainable finance is not just an option—it’s a responsibility. This collaboration with IFC represents a significant step forward in our mission to drive Türkiye’s economic growth through smart, sustainable investments. By supporting SMEs, we are fostering innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to a greener future. We are thrilled to collaborate with IFC, and we look forward to expanding our joint efforts in the coming years.”
Momina Aijazuddin, IFC Regional Industry Head, Financial Institutions Group for the Middle East, Central Asia, Türkiye, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, mentioned “IFC is committed to helping Türkiye transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy by mobilizing private capital and introducing innovative financing solutions. Our strategic partnership with QNB Leasing will continue to unlock new opportunities for small businesses to thrive, address urgent environmental challenges, and inspire other leasing companies to enhance sustainable financing.”
IFC’s investment also reinforces its ongoing support for the leasing sector, which provides SMEs with alternative financing options beyond traditional bank loans — overcoming barriers such as collateral requirements and limited credit histories. Türkiye holds strategic importance for IFC, representing its third-largest country exposure globally, with a committed portfolio nearing $5.4 billion as of February 2025. This latest investment highlights IFC’s long-term commitment to fostering sustainable growth and enhancing financial inclusion in the region.
