AUSTRALIA is providing P172 million in bridge financing for female-owned small businesses, its embassy in Manila said.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Australian Embassy said the Australian Development Investments (ADI) project will provide the funding through ARQ SME Finance.

“The Philippines is home to extraordinary Filipina entrepreneurs — but many face barriers when they seek funds to grow their businesses,” Australian Ambassador to the Philippines Marc Innes-Brown said.

“Australia is proud to partner with ARQ to help create more business opportunities for women and build economic growth that benefits women and men alike,” he added.

ADI’s first impact investment in the Philippines was announced at the 2X Global Summit on Tuesday.

The Australian government’s flagship impact investment fund, ADI is tasked with reducing poverty and inequality.

“The loan expands Australia’s existing commitment to help more Filipinas participate in the workforce or grow their own businesses through the Investing in Women program,” the embassy said.

ARQ will have more capital available to Philippine businesses that are committed to greater gender equality in leadership, the workforce, supply chains, and human resources management.

“This investment is a catalyst for resilient, inclusive SME growth,” according to Abigail Tan, co-founder and managing partner at ARQ.

“It enables ARQ to scale support for Philippine enterprises that embed gender equality, financial governance, and sound business practices — driving long-term opportunity across communities,” she added.

According to the embassy, ARQ serves firms that are too big for microfinance and too small for banks. — Justine Irish D. Tabile

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