Green Finance and Women-Owned Businesses: A Growth Opportunity for Financial Institutions in the Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Download (497.64 KB)
Publication Type:
Publisher:
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
Publication:
July 2025
This brief explores strategies to improve access to green finance for women-owned MSMEs in the Lao People's Democratic Republic.
There is a need for targeted interventions to improve access to green finance for micro, small, and medium- sized enterprises (MSMEs), especially those owned by women, in the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). In 2018, 60% of individuals running household microenterprises were female. Of female-owned firms, 52% were micro, 45% small, and 3% medium-sized enterprises. However, women entrepreneurs face additional challenges in accessing capital and financial services compared to men.
Following a market assessment of 90 financial institutions in the Lao PDR, this brief explores strategies to improve access to green finance for women-owned MSMEs. Surveyed financial institutions showed interest in enhancing their support for small businesses, recognizing them as key drivers of economic growth.
The brief highlights that leveraging digital financial services and providing tailored training can also empower women entrepreneurs to engage in green business practices. By supporting women entrepreneurs in adopting green practices, financial institutions can contribute to, and benefit from, a more inclusive and sustainable economic future for the country.
Contents
- Introduction
- Key Findings of the Market Assessment
- The Green Finance Market Is Emerging, with Few Financial Products for Women Entrepreneurs
- The Path Forward: Opportunities in Green Lending
- Conclusion
