In April 2026, OeEB signed a USD 20 million credit line with Ueno Bank S.A. in Paraguay. The financing aims to expand access to finance for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), with a particular focus on women owned businesses and green finance. This transaction represents OeEB's first investment in Paraguay.
| Project name | Ueno Bank |
| Region | South America |
| Sector | Financial sector / Microfinance / SME |
| Service | Investments & Financing |
| Project country | Paraguay |
| OeEB project volume | US-Dollar 20 million |
| International climate finance according to UNFCCC | Partially eligible |
| Additionality | Financial Additionality |
| Project partner(s) | Ueno Bank S.A. |
The credit line is designed to improve access to bank financing for underserved populations and to support the sustainable growth potential of MSMEs in Paraguay. By channelling funds to women owned enterprises, the financing contributes to gender equality, women's economic participation and financial independence.
Up to 50% of the funds will be used for green lending, supporting Ueno Bank's initial efforts to build a green finance portfolio. This is particularly relevant in Paraguay, where the financial system currently offers only limited tailored green financial products and technical capacities. In parallel, OeEB supports the enhancement of Ueno Bank's environmental and social (E&S) management system in line with EDFI and IFC standards. In addition, an external customer protection certification has been included as a requirement in the loan documentation, further strengthening responsible banking practices.
Ueno Bank is a leading digital retail bank in Paraguay with a strong focus on financial inclusion. Operating nationwide, the bank plays an important role in expanding access to formal financial services for underserved populations, supported by a mobile first business model and a high level of digitalisation. As Paraguay's first 100% climate neutral bank, Ueno Bank sets a benchmark for sustainability in the country's financial sector.