The Australian government has announced a PHP172-million impact loan program to support women entrepreneurs in the Philippines.

The initiative is aimed at expanding the access to capital and promoting gender-inclusive economic growth, according to a statement released by the Australian Embassy in Manila on Wednesday.

The embassy said the loans would be coursed through the Australian Development Investments (AID) and female-led ARQ SME Finance.

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

“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.

The embassy noted that the loans will target businesses with a commitment to gender equality in leadership, workforce participation, supply chains, and human resources practices.

“This investment is a catalyst for resilient, inclusive SME growth,” said Abigail Tan, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of ARQ SME BDC.

“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.

Innes-Brown first announced the new financing at the 2X Global Summit held on Sept. 2.

It marks the first funding of the ADI — Australia’s flagship impact investment fund — in the Philippines. (PNA)