MicroBank promotes entrepreneurship with €31.7 million in microcredits for projects advised by social sector organizations

• CaixaBank’s social bank increases financing for projects advised by social sector organizations by 8.8%, with 1,480 operations completed by August 2025

• Virtually all microcredits were allocated to the creation of new businesses, promoting self-employment and boosting the productive fabric

• Women lead the demand, and the profile of entrepreneurs is increasingly diverse

MicroBank, the social bank of CaixaBank, has granted €31.7 million in microcredits to entrepreneurs advised by social organizations during the first eight months of 2025, representing an 8.8% increase compared to the same period last year. In total, the institution carried out 1,480 operations, with an average amount of 21.417 euros.

Virtually all of these microcredits (99%) were allocated to the launch of new businesses, reinforcing MicroBank’s commitment to financial inclusion and equal opportunities. The bank promotes entrepreneurship among individuals who face greater difficulties accessing credit, offering collateral-free financing and supporting solid business ideas. This model, based on collaboration with over 270 social organizations across the country, ensures that each project receives personalized support and guidance throughout all stages of its development.

Although hospitality (15.9%) and beauty (10.4%) remain the most common sectors, freight transport has shown growth in 2025. Regarding the profile of beneficiaries, 56% are women, and by age, entrepreneurs between 30 and 39 years old account for the majority of applications. By country of origin, Spain leads with 66%, followed by Venezuela (9%), Colombia (4%), and Italy (4%).

Territorial Expansion and Growth of the Digital Channel

The granting of microcredits has also increased in geographical diversity. The provinces with the highest volume of operations were Barcelona (15%), Seville (6.8%), Granada (6%), and Málaga and A Coruña (5.8% each).

The digital channel, recently launched as an alternative to in-branch management, is becoming a fast and efficient option for applying for a microcredit. Operations carried out up to August totaled €1.9 million, representing a 5.8% increase compared to the same period last year. Of these, more than half were managed through established partner organizations, while the rest were processed by new entities.

The Key Role of the Social Network in Supporting Entrepreneurship

The process of accessing a microcredit begins with selecting one of the more than 270 partner social organizations, which support entrepreneurs in defining their business idea and preparing the business plan and viability report required to apply for financing. Once this phase is completed, the documentation can be submitted at any CaixaBank branch or digitally, and after a technical and financial analysis of the project, the resolution is communicated. This model, based on proximity and personalized support, facilitates access to credit for those who need it most, promoting job creation and generating a positive social impact.

“Working together with social organizations is essential for every business idea to find the boost it needs. Thanks to their support and guidance, we can help thousands of people take the step toward entrepreneurship, creating job opportunities and energizing the productive fabric,” said Cristina González, General Manager of MicroBank.

Among the organizations providing this non-financial support are Incorpora by Fundació “la Caixa”, Andalucía Emprende, the Chamber of Commerce of A Coruña, the Canary Islands Employment Service and the Institute for Women.

Banking in Service of Social Challenges

MicroBank addresses the needs of various population segments whose financial requirements are not sufficiently met. It plays a key role in the Sustainable Banking Plan, which is part of CaixaBank’s Strategic Plan, and is entrusted with the mission of promoting financial inclusion by facilitating access to credit for the most vulnerable groups, while also strengthening its commitment to the socioeconomic development of the region.

MicroBank also receives support from major European institutions dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship and microfinance. These include the European Investment Fund (EIF), the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB), and the European Investment Bank (EIB).