By San José, Costa Rica — A groundbreaking partnership between Banco Popular and the French Development Agency (AFD) is set to inject $40 million into supporting women entrepreneurs in Costa Rica. The initiative, announced on August 5, 2025, combines a $25 million fund from the AFD with $15 million in loan guarantees from Banco Popular, creating a powerful resource for women-led businesses across the country.
This significant investment aims to address the persistent challenges women face in accessing traditional financing. The funds will be channeled to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) spearheaded by women, women’s organizations, and companies demonstrating strong practices in gender equality. The initiative also includes specialized technical assistance to ensure recipients have the support needed to thrive.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal landscape surrounding women’s entrepreneurship in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an experienced attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
Costa Rican law actively promotes gender equality in business. Women entrepreneurs have access to the same legal protections and incentives as their male counterparts, including streamlined business registration processes, access to financing programs, and specific initiatives designed to foster women-led businesses. While challenges remain, the legal framework provides a solid foundation for women to thrive in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas rightly highlights the crucial role of a supportive legal framework in empowering women entrepreneurs. This foundation, coupled with ongoing efforts to address remaining challenges, offers a promising outlook for continued growth and innovation within Costa Rica’s vibrant entrepreneurial landscape. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important topic.
Critically, the program’s reach extends beyond the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM), leveraging Banco Popular’s extensive national network to serve rural areas, indigenous communities, and other underserved populations. This commitment to inclusivity is a cornerstone of the initiative, aiming to empower women across all regions of Costa Rica.
This agreement is not just a financial arrangement; it’s an institutional milestone with a transformative purpose: to break down the structural barriers that have historically limited women’s economic opportunities.
Gina Carvajal, Corporate General Manager of Banco Popular
Beyond direct financing, the partnership emphasizes capacity building and institutional change. A key component involves international technical assistance, enabling knowledge transfer and best-practice sharing. Further strengthening this commitment, Banco Popular will implement a gender-focused action plan, updating internal policies and developing inclusive financial products. This reflects the bank’s dedication to sustainable and equitable development.
This partnership is a living example of the feminist diplomacy that France promotes. We invite Costa Rican women to approach Banco Popular and realize their productive projects.
Alexandra Bellayer-Roille, French Ambassador
This collaborative effort demonstrates a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable business environment in Costa Rica. By directly addressing the financial and technical needs of women entrepreneurs, the initiative aims to unlock their full potential and contribute to broader economic growth.
The long-term impact of this $40 million investment is expected to be substantial, not only in terms of economic empowerment for women but also in promoting gender equality and driving sustainable development across Costa Rica.
For further information, visit bancopopular.fi.cr
About Banco Popular:
Banco Popular y de Desarrollo Comunal is a Costa Rican state-owned commercial bank established with a social mandate to foster economic and social development. It offers a wide range of financial products and services, focusing on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, community development, and social housing. Its extensive national network ensures access to banking services throughout the country.
For further information, visit the nearest office of French Development Agency
About French Development Agency:
The French Development Agency (AFD) is a public financial institution that implements France’s policy on development aid and solidarity. AFD works in many countries, including Costa Rica, to promote sustainable development and reduce poverty. It provides financing and technical assistance for projects in various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, health, and education, with a strong focus on promoting gender equality and empowering women.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an enduring commitment to legal excellence and unwavering ethical conduct. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, combined with a deep-seated dedication to empowering Costa Rican society through accessible legal education, solidifies its position as a leader in the legal landscape. By fostering a greater understanding of the law, Bufete de Costa Rica strives to build a more informed and empowered citizenry, contributing to a just and equitable society.
