Kazakhstan updates small business subsidy rules under Isker Aimak program

September 1, 2026 at 09:09 AM2 min

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Kazakhstan has enacted updated subsidy rules for the Isker Aimak small business support program, implemented by Damu Fund. The changes, approved by government decree No. 729 on August 18, 2026, expand support for social entrepreneurs and tighten local content requirements. Investment project implementation periods are reduced from 24 to 18 months.

Key Facts

Social entrepreneurs receive a 50% subsidy of the nominal interest rate, compared to 40% for other entrepreneurs.
Investment project implementation period is reduced from 24 to 18 months from the start of subsidization.
Assets for investment projects must be purchased from Kazakhstani producers listed in the relevant register, unless the required goods are unavailable.
Regional akimats can determine an additional six OKED codes as priority economic activities.
The Damu Fund must decide on subsidy approval within 5 working days after project submission.

Social Entrepreneurship Support

Projects of social entrepreneurship entities are now included without sectoral restrictions. They can participate in the program according to the types of activities specified in the register of social entrepreneurship entities, considering the project implementation location and the entrepreneur's registration place. For social entrepreneurs, the subsidy amount is 50% of the nominal interest rate, while for other entrepreneurs it is 40%.

Investment Project Requirements

Investment project implementation period is reduced from 24 to 18 months from the start of subsidization. The period may be extended by no more than six months in case of significant legislative changes or unforeseen technical, economic, or production circumstances. Equipment, machinery, vehicles, construction materials, and other assets within the investment project must be purchased from Kazakhstani producers included in the relevant register. If the required goods are not available in the register, entrepreneurs may purchase them from other producers.

Subsidy Mechanism Changes

The allocation of limits between second-tier banks and leasing companies has been removed. Entrepreneurs can now apply to any partner second-tier bank or leasing company of the Fund. After financing approval, the project is sent to the Damu Fund, which makes a decision on granting subsidies within 5 working days. If a positive decision is made, a tripartite subsidy agreement is concluded between the Damu Fund, the second-tier bank or leasing company, and the entrepreneur.