Kazakhstan has updated the terms of subsidizing small businesses under the "Isker Aimak" program. The changes affect the size of state support, requirements for investment projects, and the procedure for applying for subsidies, reports infohub.kz.

One of the key innovations is the expansion of support for social entrepreneurs. For them, industry restrictions have been lifted, and the subsidy rate is set at 50% of the nominal interest rate. For other program participants, this figure is 40%.

The maximum loan amount under the program is 200 million tenge. Funds can be used for investments or replenishing working capital, with subsidies provided for up to three years.

Investment requirements have also changed. Entrepreneurs must purchase equipment, machinery, vehicles, construction materials, and other assets from Kazakhstani manufacturers included in the relevant register. If the needed product is not available there, purchases from other manufacturers are allowed.

The implementation period for investment projects has been reduced from 24 to 18 months. In certain cases, it can be extended by another six months.

"The implementation period for investment projects has been reduced from 24 to 18 months from the start of subsidization. The period may be extended by no more than six months in the event of significant changes in legislation or unforeseen technical, economic, and production circumstances," the Ministry of National Economy reported.

The mechanism for obtaining subsidies has also changed. The distribution of limits among second-tier banks and leasing companies has been abolished. Now, an entrepreneur can independently apply to any bank or leasing company that works with the Damu Fund.

After loan or leasing approval, documents are sent to Damu. The fund has five working days to decide on granting the subsidy.

"Now an entrepreneur can apply to any second-tier bank or leasing company that are partners of the Fund. After financing is approved, the project is sent to the Damu Fund, which within five working days makes a decision on granting the subsidy," the ministry explained.

If the subsidy is refused, the fund's decision can now be appealed administratively or in court.

Micro and small businesses, agricultural cooperatives, and social entrepreneurs can participate in "Isker Aimak". The updated rules were approved by government decree No. 729 dated August 18, 2026.