The PMA, in Cooperation with the Ministry of Labor Launches the Second Phase of the “Bader” Program to Finance Workers with a Value of ILS 40 million

The PMA, in cooperation with the Ministry of Labor, has launched the second phase of the “Bader” program to finance workers who have lost their jobs inside the Green Line, with a total funding envelope of up to ILS 40 million.

The launch of the program’s second phase was announced today, Wednesday, at the headquarters of the PMA, in the presence of H.E. the PMA Governor, Mr. Yahya Shunnar; H.E. the Minister of Labor, Dr. Inas Attari; Deputy Governor Mr. Mohammad Manasrah; Assistant Undersecretary Mr. Rami Mahdawi; and a number of department directors from both sides.

The launch of this program comes in line with the directives and guidance of H.E. President Mahmoud Abbas and H.E. Prime Minister Dr. Mohammed Mustafa. In its second phase, the program targets male and female workers who have lost their jobs inside the Green Line and in settlements, as well as workers who have lost their jobs in the West Bank. It aims to support them in establishing or developing their existing businesses, enabling beneficiaries to obtain financing from banks and lending institutions without bearing any costs or interest.

 H.E. the PMA Governor, Mr. Yahya Shunnar, stated that the launch of the second phase comes as a direct response to the challenging living and economic conditions faced by our people, particularly workers who have lost their jobs. He noted that the program enables workers to access concessional, interest-free loans to help them launch their own businesses. In addition, beneficiaries will be supported through training and capacity-building programs provided by the PMA via the “Monshati” platform, as well as through employment offices of the Ministry of Labor, thereby assisting them in establishing successful and productive enterprises.

The Governor explained that this phase will be implemented through the injection of ILS 40 million, in addition to the first phase, which amounted to ILS 30 million, bringing the total financing portfolio allocated for lending to workers to ILS 70 million. He added that the PMA stands ready to increase the size of the portfolio in line with demand in the near future.

Furthermore, Shunnar affirmed the PMA’s commitment to launching financing programs through the Istidama Fund targeting various segments of society. This reflects the PMA’s dedication to supporting citizens’ resilience and enhancing their ability to withstand economic challenges. He also emphasized the ongoing efforts to develop innovative financing tools that contribute to expanding financial inclusion and promoting economic development and financial stability.

For her part, H.E. the Minister of Labor, Dr. Inas Attari, affirmed that the program aligns with the Palestinian government’s direction toward reducing unemployment rates and empowering economically affected groups by transitioning from unstable job opportunities to productive and sustainable entrepreneurial projects within the local market.

Dr. Attari added that the government is working to integrate economic and financing policies in a way that enhances opportunities for self-employment and supports the resilience of workers and their families. She emphasized that “Bader” is more than a financing program; it is a national vision for gradual economic empowerment and an investment in dignity before capital. It is also an open call for every worker to become a business owner, a creator of opportunities, and a partner in development.

The PMA called on those interested in benefiting from the program to submit their applications through the “Monshati” platform, which allows users to apply for financing and track their applications electronically. This contributes to streamlining procedures, accelerating the assessment process, and ensuring that financing reaches the targeted groups.