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The International Finance Corporation (IFC) granted a $75 million loan to DenizLeasing, the financial leasing arm of Türkiye’s DenizBank, to advance sustainable development and support the country’s green transformation efforts.
The financing will fund a range of environmental and social initiatives, with a particular focus on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and water-related sustainability, alongside support for small businesses that promote women's participation in the workforce.
The deal, announced at a ceremony held on Thursday, at the DenizBank Head Office, will allocate 80% of the financing to companies seeking to lease equipment and technology aimed at reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency. These funds are expected to help firms adopt cleaner production processes and lower their environmental risks in line with Türkiye's broader climate objectives.
An additional 10% of the loan will be dedicated to so-called “blue finance” initiatives. This includes projects that safeguard water resources and improve waste management—both of which are critical to ensuring long-term ecosystem health and climate resilience.
The remaining 10% will go to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that actively promote gender inclusion. To qualify, businesses must employ a significant number of women, include women in their management teams, or hold a Gender Equality Certificate. These conditions are designed to improve financial access for women-led and women-inclusive businesses in Türkiye, while also highlighting their growing role in the country’s economic development.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, DenizLeasing General Manager Burak Kocak said the partnership with IFC reflects a joint commitment to long-term environmental and social progress. He emphasized that DenizLeasing views support for SMEs and sustainable investments as a strategic priority, especially in sectors related to green transformation.
Kocak noted, “We consider it our responsibility to finance initiatives that reduce carbon footprints, enhance energy efficiency, and sustain our water ecosystems. At the same time, we are committed to increasing the visibility of women’s contribution to the economy. This $75 million financing represents our dedication to both economic and environmental sustainability.”
Momina Aijazuddin, IFC’s regional industry head for Financial Institutions in the Middle East, Central Asia, Türkiye, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, underscored the importance of combining climate finance with social impact.
“Green and blue finance are key to fostering sustainable growth,” she said. “By supporting renewable energy and water sustainability, we are contributing to Türkiye’s net zero targets. This agreement also strengthens access to finance for SMEs, which employ over 70% of the country’s workforce, while advancing gender equality through focused funding.”
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