FMO, the Dutch entrepreneurial development bank, is pleased to announce the signing of a USD 15 million senior loan facility with ASA International (ASAI). This transaction supports on-lending to female micro-entrepreneurs in Africa and Asia.
ASA International is one of the world's largest international microfinance institutions, dedicated to providing small, socially responsible loans to low-income entrepreneurs, most of whom are women. With operations in 13 countries, including Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Myanmar, Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Zambia, Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone, ASAI has a proven track record of fostering financial inclusion and economic empowerment. The facility also supports ASAI’s digital transformation efforts aimed at allowing easier access to financial services by end clients.
This partnership aligns with FMO's commitment to promoting sustainable development and gender equality by empowering female entrepreneurs. Moreover, the transaction facilitates the renewal of a partnership between FMO and a globally impactful Dutch-based microfinance institution known for its strong heritage in microfinance.
Fatou Bouaré, FMO’s Chief Finance & Operations Officer, said, "Providing financing to ASAI, a strong and global microfinance player that wholeheartedly supports women's entrepreneurship, aligns perfectly with FMO’s strategy to reduce inequalities and create local livelihood opportunities. We are impressed by ASAI’s operational performance and strong lending guidelines, which ensure that their clients borrow under the right conditions and can benefit their businesses, families, and communities. We look forward to this new chapter in our partnership.’’
Rob Keijsers, Interim Chief Executive Officer, added: “ASA International is delighted to have signed this senior loan facility with FMO. Building on the strong operational growth we saw in 2024, we expect to see further growing demand for loans from clients in 2025 and this new loan facility will help to support this growth. Since formation, we have long partnered with development banks and we are honoured and proud to now add FMO to this roster. The entire ASA International team hopes this is the start of a long, fruitful and mutually beneficial partnership with FMO."
About ASA International
ASA International Group plc (LSE: ASAI) is one of the world’s largest international microfinance institutions, with a strong commitment to financial inclusion and socioeconomic progress. The company provides small, socially responsible loans to low-income, financially underserved entrepreneurs, predominantly women, across South Asia, South East Asia, West and East Africa.
