AGFUND honored for inclusive banking and social impact

The Arab Gulf Programme for Development (AGFUND) has received the "Excellence in Inclusive Banking and Social Impact" award at the 2026 Sustainable Development Goals Awards, organized by the World Savings and Retail Banking Institute (WSBI) in collaboration with the European Savings and Retail Banking Group (ESBG). The ceremony was held in Bangkok, Thailand.

AGFUND CEO Hammam bin Nasser bin Juraid accepted the award. Prince Abdulaziz bin Talal, President of AGFUND, highlighted the award's significance, stating it recognizes the organization's experience in leveraging financial services to empower underserved communities and foster economic independence. He also acknowledged the founders of AGFUND's microfinance banks, particularly the late Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz.

Since its inception, AGFUND's financial inclusion banking network has served over 1.3 million clients, disbursing more than $1.37 billion in funding. Notably, women represent 59 percent of borrowers, underscoring their economic empowerment. AGFUND has established microfinance institutions across nine countries, aiming to reach communities traditionally underserved by conventional financial institutions.

The organization plans to strengthen development partnerships and advance digital solutions and innovative financial products. AGFUND is also exploring geographical expansion, particularly in Africa, through institutional partnerships to extend financial inclusion to more communities and ensure sustainable impact.