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Impact lending

The traditional economic model was built in an era when labor and capital were the main drivers of growth. Today, environmental and social factors have become essential considerations shaping business and lending decisions alike.

 

Financial institutions are uniquely positioned to support and accelerate the shift toward sustainable business practices. By offering impact-driven lending products, they can enable SMEs to adopt greener models, unlocking opportunities while addressing global challenges.

 

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Akkuro | Lending | Impact Lending Playbook

Related topics
  • Lending
  • Playbooks
Written by

Jamie Burink

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The sustainable transition is very complex - it touches all aspects of environment, society and economy. Take for example assessing the sustainability of an SME. 

Financial institutions have a vital role to play in the transition, but turning ESG ambitions into practical lending decisions is easier said than done.

Summary
  • Banks and lenders are embedding environmental and social goals directly into SME lending.
  • Tools like the Sustainability Credit Risk Score (SCRS) enable better integration of ESG factors into credit frameworks.
  • Supporting underserved SMEs, rather than excluding them, is essential to driving impact.
  • Real-world examples illustrate how impact-focused lending can drive sustainable growth.

SMEs make up over 50% of global employment and economic activity, yet many remain financially underserved. Limited access to finance and complex sustainability factors create barriers that slow progress toward a sustainable economy.

Banks have the power to accelerate the sustainable transition—especially through SME lending. But translating ESG ambitions into real credit decisions isn't always straightforward. This playbook helps you move from theory to action with strategies tailored to the realities of SME finance.

Download the SME Impact Lending Playbook and start aligning your credit strategy with ESG goals.