Official Launch of the Inclusive Growth and Job Recovery Project in Syria

Damascus - Monday, 29 June 2026 – The Syria Recovery Trust Fund (SRTF) participated in the official launch of the “Inclusive Growth and Job Recovery in Syria” project in Damascus, hosted by the Near East Foundation (NEF) with the support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).  

The event brought together representatives of key stakeholders, including partners, experts, and beneficiaries, to discuss a new initiative aimed at supporting livelihoods and economic recovery across Syria. 

The project builds on the success of the SRTF-funded Revolving Credit Fund (RCF), which has demonstrated the effectiveness of an innovative financing model for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). To date, the RCF has provided approximately  5,800 business loans with a total value exceeding USD 8.6 million to MSMEs across a range of productive sectors. More than  50%  of beneficiaries have been women, youth, or persons with disabilities, while the repayment rate has remained close to  90%. The initiative has enabled  67%  of borrowers to increase their income,  33%  to expand their businesses and create jobs, and around 70% to better meet their households' needs. 

Building on these achievements, the new project aims to support individuals across Syria in rebuilding their livelihoods through support to productive sectors, enterprise development, workforce development, and market systems strengthening. It seeks to create decent and sustainable employment opportunities while contributing to the conditions necessary for the dignified and voluntary return of Syrians. 

In his opening remarks, the SRTF Director General, Eng. Hani Khabbaz, provided a brief about the RCF history and phases and stated: “Sustainable recovery requires more than assistance and rehabilitation of infrastructure; it requires investment in people, markets, and local economies. By enabling small businesses to grow and create jobs, this innovative and locally driven approach contributes directly to economic recovery, strengthens household resilience, and helps create the conditions for dignified and sustainable returns for Syrians.” 

The launch event featured welcome remarks, statements by the SDC and SRTF representatives, a presentation by NEF on project goals and impact, and a roundtable discussion on job creation and sustainable livelihoods. Discussions focused on enterprise development, workforce readiness, inclusive employment, and agriculture and market systems. The closing statements reaffirmed all partners’ commitment to placing Syrians at the heart of recovery efforts. 

For more information on the SRTF, visit: 

http://www.srtfund.org 

Media outlets may contact: 
communications@srtfund.org