- TBC and EBRD Ink USD 25 Million Loan Agreement to Propel Local MSMEs and Green Financing in Georgia
TBC and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have signed a USD 25 million loan agreement, with the funds aimed at supporting micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and promoting green investments.
This collaboration aligns with TBC’s strategic priorities as a leading banking group, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable development for local businesses and advancing the de-dollarization of the Georgian economy.
By securing this GEL-denominated loan, TBC enhances access to financing in the local currency, a critical factor in developing the private sector. This enables TBC to continue providing MSMEs with long-term loans in GEL, fostering growth and stability.
The project will emphasize financing for energy efficiency, renewable energy, and climate-resilient initiatives, contributing to climate-focused investments and solidifying TBC’s leadership in green and sustainable financing.
About the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
The EBRD is a leading institutional investor in Georgia, with a cumulative investment of over EUR 5.3 billion across 301 projects in sectors such as finance, corporate, infrastructure, and energy. Notably, 82% of these investments support the private sector.
- TechXplore: Inside TBC’s Dynamic Hackathon Event
The TBC Hackathon, held from October 18 to 20, concluded with the announcement of this year’s winners and showcased innovative digital solutions for everyday challenges.
Over the three-day event, teams developed fast, simple, and user-friendly digital prototypes, which they presented live to the jury. Three standout teams emerged victorious:
– 1st Place: Bankify
– 2nd Place: Koggo 2.0
– 3rd Place: Hack ‘n’ Slash
The hackathon aimed to unite the tech community, offering participants an opportunity to tackle real-world problems and devise creative solutions. Teams were introduced to the task upon arrival, with just three days to create and present a minimum viable product (MVP) or prototype, allowing the jury to fully grasp each concept.
The top three teams received cash prizes, with 1st place earning 10,000 GEL, 2nd place receiving 6,000 GEL, and 3rd place awarded 4,000 GEL.
Reflecting on the event, Rostom Talakhadze, TBC Digital Business Development Tribe Leader, noted: “The hackathon provided a hands-on environment where teams could focus on building a new product over three intense days. Experienced mentors were on hand to help participants overcome any obstacles, ensuring a meaningful and constructive experience. As a leading employer of tech talent, our aim was to create a unique, inspiring experience for tech professionals, and the results show we achieved that goal.”
With a commitment to fostering tech talent, TBC continues to support the growth of the technology ecosystem by organizing events and initiatives that educate, engage, and inspire those passionate about innovation.
- Rabati Hotel in Akhaltsikhe: Embracing Tradition with TBC’s Support
When visiting Akhaltsikhe Castle, you can’t miss the vibrant, intricately carved building nearby—this is the Rabati Hotel. Open for a year, it has already become a cherished destination for local and international tourists. Its unique design, blending the region’s traditional architecture with modern elements, creates a captivating atmosphere that delights visitors.
Though Rabati Hotel has only recently opened, the idea behind it has been developing for much longer, originating from the rehabilitation of Akhaltsikhe Prison. The hotel’s owner, local entrepreneur Simon Afriamashvili, recalls that his family initially operated a small guesthouse within their home.
“After Akhaltsikhe Prison was rehabilitated and tourists began coming to our city, we decided to convert part of our home in the Rabat district into a family hotel. We set aside a few rooms, and this is how we’ve been welcoming guests for years,” Simon shares.
As tourism in the region grew, so did demand for more accommodations. Simon decided it was time to expand, relying solely on the invaluable experience his family had gathered over the years. Without the funds needed to build a full-scale hotel, Simon approached TBC Bank. With a preferential business loan from TBC and additional support from Enterprise Georgia, which subsidized the loan interest and provided a six-month grace period, Simon began constructing the new hotel near his home.
“The grace period was essential during construction. It was a major relief not to worry about loan repayments while building,” says Simon.
In no time, the Rabati Hotel became a favorite among visitors, with its ten rooms, high-quality service, and cozy, family-like atmosphere. Simon has also added a restaurant that caters to both locals and tourists, with a particular focus on Meskhetian dishes.
“Visitors, both local and international, are eager to try our traditional dishes, so Meskhetian cuisine was the first thing we introduced to the menu,” Simon explains.
Simon describes his journey as “exciting and challenging,” but he’s committed to advancing and enhancing his business. He remains optimistic about the region’s potential for tourism growth, especially with the Khulo-Zarzma road expected to increase access to the area significantly.
Samtskhe-Javakheti has a wealth of cultural monuments, many of which remain relatively unknown. “Everyone knows Akhaltsikhe Castle, Vardzia, Sapara, Chule, and Zarzma, but few have heard of Khertvisi, Tmogvi, or the Golden Fortress. There’s also Tabatskuri and Saro carafes,” Simon notes.
Currently, Simon is focused entirely on managing the hotel, but he envisions offering local tours in the future. Who knows—perhaps one day you’ll find yourself setting off from the Rabati Hotel to explore Vardzia, Saro Carafa, or even the highlands along the way to Didi Abuli.
- TBC Supports Borjomi’s “Tori” Youth Football Team
TBC has become an official supporter of Borjomi’s youth football team, “Tori.”
Founded in 2020, the “Tori” youth team has already established a strong presence in Georgian football. They are champions of the Samtskhe-Javakheti league and have competed in notable tournaments across Georgia, including the Ureki International Tournament, the Gori International Tournament, and the Imereti Championship, among others.
This new generation of athletes is carrying on Borjomi’s football legacy. With upgraded uniforms, equipment, and enhanced training facilities provided through TBC’s sponsorship, the team is well-positioned to continue advancing towards its goals.
“TBC’s support is crucial for us,” says Sergi Kobesashvili, head coach of the Tori Sports School team. “This partnership marks a significant step forward in our team’s development and will help us reach new milestones.”
Promoting youth development, inspiring the next generation, and encouraging a healthy lifestyle remain core priorities for TBC, with plans to support similar initiatives in the future.
- Comprehensive Auto Insurance with Tegeta Motors Repair Services – Now Available through TBC Insurance
TBC Insurance now offers customers the option to select Tegeta Motors as their preferred repair service provider when purchasing auto insurance. Should repairs be required due to an insured event, customers can have their vehicle serviced directly at Tegeta Motors.
With this selection, customers receive additional benefits, including:
– A 200 GEL Tegeta voucher
– Complete vehicle diagnostics, covering electronic and undercarriage inspections, battery and antifreeze checks, and tire tread evaluation
– Dedicated personal manager services through Tegeta across Tbilisi
– Tegeta Gold benefits (discounts or cashback options)
– Unlimited 50% discounted washes at partner locations (see provider list)
– 24/7 roadside assistance, including towing, fuel delivery, parking, and tire changes
TBC Insurance is committed to delivering a modern, customer-first experience. The exceptional service quality at Tegeta Motors makes this product a convenient and valuable choice for car owners.
Explore fast and efficient claims processing. Learn more today.
Note: Offer is available to customers with vehicles valued at over $15,000.
- TBC Concept and Coaching Lab Introduce “Team Coaching – Foundation” Program in Tbilisi
In collaboration with TBC Concept Coaching Lab, the third edition of the international team coaching program, “Team Coaching – Foundation”, will be hosted in Tbilisi from December 12-14.
This intensive program is the first module in a comprehensive team coaching curriculum, consisting of three modules. “Team Coaching – Foundation” provides an in-depth understanding of team development dynamics and effective teamwork practices. The course aims to equip participants with essential team coaching competencies, practical knowledge of the team coaching process, and tools to apply these skills in real-world scenarios. Accredited by both the EMCC and ICF, this module emphasizes hands-on experience and active participation.
The program is tailored for business leaders, team managers, department heads, facilitators, trainers, coaches, HR professionals, and others who support team growth and seek to drive business development through effective team coaching. Prior experience in coaching is not required to attend.
TBC Concept users are eligible for a 12% discount on the program fee.
For registration and more information, please follow the link. (hyperlink: გუნდური ქოუჩინგი – ფუნდამენტი – Coaching LAB)
- TBC Secures 3 Million GEL from EBRD for Corporate Green Projects
TBC has secured 3 million GEL from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) under its Trade Finance Program (TFP) to fund corporate green initiatives, allowing business clients to invest in solar panel installations.
This marks the first instance in Georgia of EBRD’s trade finance program providing funding in local currency for projects that promote sustainable development and environmental impact.
“As the leading supporter of businesses, we prioritize advancing initiatives that introduce international standards and modern technologies to the Georgian business sector. We are pleased that, in line with global trends, more businesses in Georgia are making environmentally conscious choices,” stated Giorgi Tkhelidze, Deputy General Director of TBC. “With finite natural resources, the primary challenge today is environmental care. Responsible business development hinges on boosting energy efficiency. Through our partnership with EBRD’s trade financing program, we are thrilled to support more businesses in adopting solar electric panels, reducing grid electricity consumption, and achieving financial savings.”
TBC joined the Trade Finance Program in 1999. Since then, TBC has financed over 1,000 trade transactions under the program, totaling more than 850 million euros.
In 2023, TBC’s sustainable loan portfolio reached 1.23 billion GEL—a 57% increase from 2022—highlighting TBC’s growing commitment to sustainable development.
