IFC $100M Loan to QNB Leasing Boosts Sustainability

In a critical step forward towards Türkiye's low-carbon economy transition, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) has provided a $100 million loan to QNB Leasing. The investment will enhance sustainable energy and blue finance activities, making small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) more available to energy-efficient and renewable energy projects. The financing will be instrumental in transforming business operations, lowering energy expenses, and promoting environmental sustainability in one of the globe's most vibrant emerging economies.

Türkiye, a nation in which SMEs account for 99% of enterprises, is confronted with an increasing demand for sustainable financing alternatives. With conventional bank loans typically demanding collateral and lengthy credit history, numerous small enterprises are unable to access funding for upgrading machinery and implementing green technologies. QNB Leasing's unique leasing model offers a solution, removing obstacles and allowing companies to fund critical upgrades without the limitations of traditional lending procedures. By making capital more accessible, this program will stimulate innovation, generate employment, and help create a more sustainable economic environment.

One of the most significant features of this deal is IFC's blue finance commitment, which is aimed at sustainable water resource management. At least 10% of the funds will be invested in projects that improve water conservation and efficiency. With Türkiye's growing water stress and the need for improved resource management, this focused funding will incentivize companies to invest in water-saving technologies and infrastructure upgrades.

QNB Leasing's General Manager Osman Tas underlined the role of sustainable finance in modern times. "For QNB Leasing, we firmly think that sustainable finance is no longer an alternative but a must. This cooperation with IFC marks a leap ahead for our endeavors to make a positive contribution to Türkiye's economic development by means of clever and sustainable investment. With lending to SMEs, we're contributing to making Turkey innovative, employable, and environmentally friendly.

The collaboration between QNB Leasing and IFC is in line with Türkiye's overall economic and environmental objectives. As the nation aims to move towards a low-carbon economy, financing arrangements that focus on sustainability are needed. The $100 million loan will enable the transition by advancing energy transition finance, prompting businesses to use renewable energy sources, and fostering sustainable practices.

Momina Aijazuddin, IFC Regional Industry Head for the Financial Institutions Group for the Middle East, Central Asia, Türkiye, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, emphasized the wider significance of this initiative. "IFC is dedicated to supporting Türkiye's shift towards a sustainable, low-carbon economy by mobilizing private capital and bringing innovative financing solutions.". Our strategic alliance with QNB Leasing will further open new avenues for small and medium-sized enterprises to flourish, tackle pressing environmental issues, and encourage other leasing institutions to increase sustainable financing."

The impact of this investment goes beyond QNB Leasing. As Türkiye's third-largest country exposure, IFC has a dedicated portfolio of close to $5.4 billion in the country as of February 2025. This new investment reaffirms IFC's leadership in influencing Türkiye's financial landscape, supporting sustainable economic resilience, and fostering private sector-driven solutions to environmental issues.

QNB Leasing's expert financing for water resource sustainability is an innovative strategy in Türkiye's financial industry. As concerns about climate change and resource scarcity continue to rise, companies that invest in water conservation and renewable energy will be more able to weather future economic and environmental challenges. The leasing model makes it possible for even smaller businesses to join the green transition, eliminating conventional financial hurdles and fostering a more inclusive sustainability strategy.

By financing SMEs, the engine of Türkiye's economy, this investment will improve business efficiency not only but also create jobs and ensure long-term economic stability. Sustainable finance investments like this one are critical for building resilience to respond to worldwide climate challenges while keeping businesses competitive in a progressively green-oriented marketplace.

IFC's ongoing investment in Türkiye is part of a larger global initiative to mainstream sustainability in financial systems. As investment in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and water sustainability picks up pace, Türkiye's financial sector is emerging as a major driver of the global green economy. The partnership between IFC and QNB Leasing demonstrates how pioneering finance solutions can contribute to economic growth as well as address key environmental issues.

This $100 million loan is not merely financial assistance—it is a sign of change in how companies engage with sustainability. By giving access to capital priority for energy-efficient and water-saving investments, the collaboration between IFC and QNB Leasing will set the stage for a greener, more sustainable Türkiye. As other institutions look on as this one succeeds, it will encourage more investment in sustainable financing, leading ultimately to an environmentally sounder economic system.