Banco Ficohsa has announced a new loan program aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) throughout Honduras. The initiative is backed by $250 million in financing, with $230 million from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and $20 million from Citi. According to the bank, this represents the largest financing package ever provided by DFC in Central America.
The program will offer loans at competitive rates to SMEs operating in sectors such as agribusiness, manufacturing, commerce, construction, education, and renewable energy. Banco Ficohsa expects that more than 3,000 businesses will benefit from these loans and that approximately 100,000 jobs could be created as a result.
“This initiative seeks to expand opportunities and ensure that businesses can thrive in Honduras,” said Camilo Atala, president of Grupo Ficohsa. “By providing targeted financing to SMEs, especially those led by women and in high-impact sectors, we are promoting sustainable economic growth, job creation, and financial stability — priorities shared by both Honduras and the United States.”
The program aligns with efforts by the U.S. government to strengthen economic resilience in Central America and address factors contributing to irregular migration. By increasing access to finance for entrepreneurs and business owners, Banco Ficohsa aims to provide opportunities for Hondurans to build their future locally.
“In Ficohsa we believe that when businesses grow, communities prosper,” Atala added. “This loan program will directly support thousands of entrepreneurs by giving them the tools they need to scale their companies, create jobs, and strengthen the economy of Honduras.”
Banco Ficohsa has pledged that at least 30% of the funds will go to women-led businesses.
Ficohsa has built a reputation among U.S. and international financial institutions as a responsible steward of investment capital. It is noted for its leadership on anti-corruption initiatives and transparency standards within Central America; it is also the first Honduran bank certified under ISO 37301 for regulatory compliance.
“The trust placed in us by DFC and Citi reflects our track record of responsible financial management and commitment to transparency,” Atala said. “We take this responsibility seriously and will ensure these funds deliver tangible benefits for businesses and communities across Honduras.”
To reach a broad range of enterprises, Banco Ficohsa plans to offer loans with interest rates starting at 12% for terms up to 24 months. These loans are intended for entrepreneurs, small business owners, women-led enterprises, and corporate clients.
Atala concluded: “Ficohsa has always been committed to strengthening Honduras’s economic resilience. This program is proof of our mission: foster growth, empower businesses, and create opportunities where they are most needed.”
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