IMMERSION PROGRAM

Upcoming Event - AKBANK

On 12 - 13 March 2025, the SME Finance Forum is organizing an immersion program in Istanbul, Türkiye. The event is hosted by AKBANK.

AKBANK T.A.Ş. was established in Adana on January 30, 1948 as a privately-owned commercial bank to provide resources and support to the local cotton producers, with the purpose of carrying out all kinds of banking transactions and performing any kind of economic, financial and commercial attempts and activities that are not prohibited by the Laws of the Republic of Turkey.

The two-day Immersion program will provide members gain exclusive access to AKBank’s expertise in investment banking, learning how the institution supports transformative projects and sustainable economic growth through innovative financing models. You’ll also dive into AKBank’s credit analytics and underwriting frameworks, which leverage advanced data insights to optimize risk management while expanding access to credit. The program highlights AKBank’s efforts in digital design and innovation, offering a firsthand look at how the bank integrates technology and human-centered design to deliver seamless customer experiences and service design. From enhancing client engagement to driving loyalty, AKBank’s customer-centric approach is a masterclass in designing services that meet evolving needs of the MSMEs. Finally, participants will explore how AKBank embeds sustainability across its operations, from supporting green financing initiatives to aligning with global environmental and social standards. This visit is an invaluable opportunity to connect with AKBank’s leadership, gain actionable insights, and re-imagine your own strategies in banking, innovation, and customer experience.

The visit is by invitation only, especially members of the SME Finance Forum. If you’re interested in joining the program or want to know about the visa requirements, please reach out to us at smefinanceforum@ifc.org. The commitment fee for participation is USD 1,000.