Belize Bank Limited is proud to announce its latest initiative to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in adopting Renewable Energy (RE) and Energy Efficiency (EE) solutions. Through a strategic partnership with the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF), we are enhancing financing opportunities for businesses seeking to invest in sustainable energy projects. This initiative is made possible through the Credit Risk Abatement Facility (CRAF), designed to increase access to financing while reducing collateral requirements.

Empowering SMEs with the Right Knowledge

To ensure that our team is fully equipped to assist SMEs in navigating the financing process, Belize Bank’s professionals recently completed specialized training with the CDF. This training enhances our ability to guide businesses through the loan application process and provide valuable insights into project feasibility and implementation.

Steps & Requirements for SMEs to Apply

SMEs interested in financing their RE or EE projects through this program must meet the following requirements:

1. Project Proposal – A detailed proposal outlining project objectives, expected energy savings, and cost estimates.
2. Business Documentation – Submission of business registration details, financial statements, and other relevant company documents.
3. Loan Application – Completion of Belize Bank’s loan application process, including financial and collateral details.
4. Technical Viability – Projects must align with RE/EE goals and demonstrate feasibility in reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions to qualify for CRAF support.
5. Review & Approval – The Bank’s underwriting team will assess the application before making a final decision.

Additional eligibility requirements may apply.

Key Benefits to SMEs

By taking advantage of this financing opportunity, SMEs can benefit from:

✔ Increased Access to Financing – Encourages lending for RE/EE initiatives.
✔ Reduced Collateral Requirements – Making financing more accessible.
✔ Technical Assistance – Targeted support for project feasibility and implementation.
✔ Cost Savings & Competitiveness – RE and EE investments lower operational costs and enhance business efficiency.

Building a Greener and More Prosperous Future

At Belize Bank Limited, we are committed to driving sustainable economic growth and fostering innovation across Belize. By partnering with the CDF, we are creating new pathways for businesses to invest in clean energy solutions, reduce operational costs, and contribute to environmental sustainability.

If you’re an SME looking to finance an RE or EE project, contact your SME Relationship Officer today to learn more about eligibility and how we can support your journey toward a greener future.

Belize City, Belize – February 17, 2025 – The Belize Bank Limited (BBL) is pleased to announce that Caribbean Information and Credit Rating Services Limited (CariCRIS) has reaffirmed the Bank’s corporate credit ratings, highlighting its strong market position and financial stability. BBL’s regional rating remains at CariBBB- (Foreign and Local Currency), while its Belize national scale rating is reaffirmed at bzAA+ (Local Currency). This reaffirmation reflects the Bank’s high creditworthiness relative to other financial institutions in Belize.

The ratings are as follows:

A copy of the CariCRIS Press Release can be viewed HERE.

CariCRIS has also maintained a stable outlook on these ratings, citing BBL’s continued profitability, a growing loan portfolio, and increasing adoption of digital banking solutions. The agency anticipates that over the next 12 to 15 months, the Bank will experience steady earnings growth, supported by higher fee income from digital transactions. While strategic and digital investments may lead to increased expenses, BBL is expected to maintain strong capitalization and good asset quality, ensuring it comfortably meets its financial obligations.

BBL’s reaffirmed ratings reflect its leading position in the Belizean banking sector, reinforced by an extensive distribution network and a robust risk management framework. Additionally, the Bank’s solid deposit base and strong liquidity position continue to support its financial strength. Ongoing digital transformation initiatives further bolster its operational efficiency and customer engagement. However, the ratings also acknowledge concentration risks within the Belizean economy and challenges associated with correspondent banking relationships, which continue to impact the broader financial sector.

Commenting on the ratings, Mr. Filippo Alario, Executive Chairman of Belize Bank Limited, stated:
“I am pleased to share that CariCRIS has reaffirmed Belize Bank’s regional and local credit ratings. This recognition reflects not only our strong financial position and disciplined risk management but also our consistency in delivering solid results year after year.

This reaffirmation reinforces my confidence in our strategic direction, particularly our focus on digital transformation, financial inclusion, and driving sustainable economic growth in Belize. 

I want to personally thank our customers for their trust, our employees for their dedication, and our stakeholders for their continued support. Together we will continue to drive for excellence.”Belize Bank remains committed to delivering exceptional banking services and fostering financial inclusion, ensuring long-term value for its customers, employees, and shareholders.

Belize Bank Limited is proud to announce its recognition at the 2024 Future Branches Innovators Awards, held on December 6th in Austin, Texas. The Bank secured first place in the “Most Effective Branch Technology Implementation” category, highlighting its leadership in leveraging innovation to enhance the banking experience.

This international recognition reflects Belize Bank’s unwavering commitment to operational excellence and customer-focused solutions. It also underscores the Bank’s dedication to advancing financial inclusion through cutting-edge technology—because at Belize Bank, “Financial Inclusion Means You Too.”

“At Belize Bank, we believe in empowering individuals and businesses by making financial services more accessible and inclusive,” said Chairman Filippo Alario. “This award is a testament to our efforts to modernize banking while ensuring that everyone benefits from the opportunities we create.”

Belize Bank extends its heartfelt gratitude to Future Branches for this honor and to its exceptional team for their dedication and hard work. Together, the Bank continues to set new benchmarks for innovation, accessibility, and customer-centric banking.

Belize City, Belize — November 27, 2024

Yesterday, November 26th, The Belize Bank Limited hosted a countrywide business mixer at its branches, bringing together valued partners, clients, and community members. This simultaneous gathering marked a significant milestone in the bank’s history as it unveiled its new brand identity, signaling a bold step toward the future.

Rooted in decades of service, innovation, and trust, the new brand identity reflects the bank’s transformation into a modern, forward-thinking financial institution. The refreshed branding represents progress, technological advancement, and a continued commitment to empowering clients’ financial goals—all while staying true to the Belizean values that have guided its journey.

“Our journey to this moment has been guided by one central theme: YOU. Our clients and communities inspire us to do better every day,” remarked Chief Operations Officer, Agata Ruta, during her address. She highlighted how the bank has evolved both internally and externally, adapting to meet the changing needs of its customers and the financial landscape.

The highlight of the evening was the address by Chairman Mr. Filippo Alario, who shared the vision behind the new identity. He emphasized the bank’s unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional service and fostering meaningful partnerships. Following his inspiring remarks, Mr. Alario unveiled the refreshed brand, symbolizing a new chapter in The Belize Bank’s journey.

This transformation reinforces the bank’s mission to offer innovative financial solutions while continuing to uphold the trust and relationships it has built over the years. The unveiling was simulcast across all branch locations, ensuring that clients and stakeholders throughout the country could share in this momentous occasion.

The Belize Bank Limited extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended the business mixer and for their continued support. Together, we look forward to a future of innovation, collaboration, and success.

In a heartfelt ceremony, the Chairman of Belize Bank, Mr. Fillipo Alario, presented Ms. Ana Campos, an elderly mother of two, with the keys to her new home. This milestone marks the 13th family supported by the Bank under Hand in Hand’s  “Building for Change” program, an initiative that empowers families by providing them with safe, dignified housing.

Belize Bank’s involvement included both financial support and volunteerism, with a team of 40 dedicated employees contributing their time and labor to bring the project to life. Over three days, the volunteers worked alongside Hand in Hand Ministries to build Ms. Campos’ new home, transforming her living situation and offering her and her family a renewed sense of stability and hope.

In her remarks, Ms. Campos expressed profound gratitude for the support and efforts made by Belize Bank and Hand in Hand Ministries, noting the life-changing impact of the new home. This partnership exemplifies Belize Bank’s strong commitment to community engagement and philanthropy, emphasizing its role not only as a financial institution but also as a catalyst for positive change in the lives of Belizeans.

Through ongoing support of initiatives like “Building for Change,” Belize Bank continues to demonstrate its dedication to building a brighter future for individuals and families across the country.

Belize Bank Limited signed a Master Guarantee Agreement with the CARICOM Development Fund to expand financing options for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This initiative, known as the Credit Risk Abatement Facility (CRAF),  marks a significant step in our commitment to supporting SMEs by expanding access to financing, particularly for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects in Belize.

Executive Chairman, Filippo Alario, stated that by reducing credit risk, CRAF empowers us to enhance our lending capacity, fostering sustainable growth in key sectors like agriculture, tourism, and renewable energy. As Belize’s largest and oldest financial institution, we’re excited to contribute to regional development and drive positive economic and social impact through this collaboration.