Kazakhstan's Atyrau Region invests billions to fuel SME growth and jobs

The growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) remains a key priority in Kazakhstan’s Atyrau Region. Local authorities have allocated significant funds to support these businesses, aiming to boost economic activity and employment. In 2021, entrepreneurs in Atyrau Region produced goods worth 3.8 trillion tenge. SMEs currently employ around 150,000 people and contribute 21.9% of the region’s gross regional product.

The local budget provided 12.2 billion tenge for SME support in 2021. This funding backed 249 projects, with total lending reaching 39.2 billion tenge. Businesses receiving state support contributed up to 160 billion tenge in tax revenues and created 725 new jobs.

Over 61,000 SMEs are registered in the region, with more than 95% actively operating. In 2022, Atyrau received 10 billion tenge in state support and credit guarantees worth 12.1 billion tenge. The 2026 budget has earmarked 3.2 billion tenge to continue these SME support programs. The ministry has pledged to create the most transparent and supportive environment for SMEs in Atyrau Region. With ongoing funding and state-backed initiatives, the sector is expected to expand further. The region’s economic output and employment figures reflect the impact of these efforts.