Uzbekistan will launch a new digital financial platform from 1 July aimed at simplifying access to finance for entrepreneurs, as part of broader efforts to support small businesses, encourage innovation and accelerate private sector development.
Under a government resolution, the platform will allow entrepreneurs to submit loan applications and receive offers from multiple commercial banks through a single online system. Authorities say the initiative is designed to reduce administrative barriers, improve competition among lenders and make financing more accessible for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The new platform forms part of a wider package of reforms that also includes the introduction of AI-powered advisory services. Commercial banks will use AI tools to generate business ideas and recommendations tailored to the economic profile and development potential of local communities.
Small businesses play a central role in Uzbekistan’s economy. According to official statistics, the sector accounts for more than half of the country’s gross domestic product and employs the majority of the workforce. In recent years, the government has prioritised expanding access to finance, reducing bureaucracy and creating new opportunities for entrepreneurship.
As part of the latest reforms, entrepreneurs who have previously received microloans and maintained a positive credit history will be able to access larger unsecured loans. The maximum unsecured portion of a loan will double from 100 million soums (approximately $8,350) to 200 million soums (around $16,700).
The Entrepreneurship Development Company will also expand financial support mechanisms by providing interest-rate subsidies for loans of up to 5 billion soums (approximately $418,000), regardless of the overall size of the credit facility.
The reform package also includes incentives aimed at encouraging innovation and business modernisation.
Each year, 100 top-performing entrepreneurs participating in government support programmes will become eligible for grants of up to 300 million soums (approximately $25,000). The funding can be used for business digitalisation, the implementation of international standards and the adoption of environmentally sustainable technologies.
Officials say the measures are intended to improve productivity, strengthen competitiveness and help local businesses adapt to rapidly changing market conditions.
By bringing together lending opportunities from multiple banks and integrating AI-based business support services, the government hopes to create a more efficient financing ecosystem and unlock new growth opportunities for entrepreneurs across the country.
The new measures will take effect from 1 July 2026 under the government’s Comprehensive Small Business Support Programme.
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