Title: SRTF and NEF Launch Phase III of the Revolving Credit Fund to Expand Access to Finance and Support Economic Recovery in Aleppo Governorate

Damascus - Tuesday, 02 June 2026 - The Syria Recovery Trust Fund (SRTF) and the Near East Foundation (NEF) are pleased to announce the launch of Phase III of the Revolving Credit Fund (RCF) in Aleppo Governorate. The new phase builds on the successes of previous phases that have expanded access to finance and strengthened business development services for entrepreneurs and small enterprises across Northern Syria.

This phase will provide a comprehensive package of financial and non-financial support, including enterprise loans, business development training, financial literacy, marketing support, as well as agricultural and vocational training, complemented by tailored post-financing assistance. The project is expected to directly benefit approximately 3,050 entrepreneurs and business owners who will all be receiving tailored technical assistance, of whom at least 1,347 will benefit through lending. To promote inclusive economic participation, up to 50 percent of loan beneficiaries will be women, supported through targeted outreach, flexible delivery modalities, and tailored measures that address barriers to economic opportunity.

The project budget is around EUR 3.50 million, of which EUR 2.58 million is from lending capital, which will be used for new loans and technical assistance, ensuring continued scale-up of sustainable enterprise financing and support services.

Commenting on the launch, Eng. Hani Khabbaz, Director General of the SRTF, said: "The continued success of the Revolving Credit Fund (RCF) demonstrates the importance of expanding access to finance as a catalyst for economic recovery and resilience. Through this new phase, we are building on a proven model that empowers entrepreneurs, including 50% women, supports the growth of small businesses and creates sustainable livelihood opportunities across Aleppo. The SRTF remains committed to investing in impactful, locally driven initiatives that enable communities to rebuild and prosper."

Ms. Caroline Verney, Vice President for Global Partnerships at the Near East Foundation, added: "The launch of Phase III reflects our continued commitment to strengthening inclusive access to finance and supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Syria. By combining responsible lending with tailored technical assistance, we aim to equip entrepreneurs, farmers and small business owners with the resources and skills they need to grow and succeed. We are particularly proud to expand opportunities for women entrepreneurs and to extend our services to Aleppo City, a key centre of economic activity in the region."

Since its inception in 2020, the Revolving Credit Fund has been implemented across Northeast and Northwest Syria, evolving to respond to changing economic conditions and recovery needs. Through a combination of enterprise financing, technical assistance, and market-oriented support, the programme continues to strengthen business performance, create employment opportunities, and enhance household incomes.

As Northern Syria continues to face the impacts of conflict, displacement, natural disasters, and market disruption, Phase III aims to further support sustainable livelihoods, stimulate local economic activity, and contribute to inclusive and resilient economic recovery.

For more information on this project, please see:

Revolving Credit Fund (RCF) to Support Livelihoods Recovery in Aleppo – Phase III 

For more information on the SRTF visit:

http://www.srtfund.org

Media outlets may contact:

communications@srtfund.org