The European Union, in partnership with EIB Global of the European Investment Bank (EIB) and Serbian financial institutions Banca Intesa and Intesa Leasing, has announced a €160 million financial package to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-caps in Serbia. Unveiled in Belgrade, the initiative seeks to boost economic growth, generate jobs, and advance Serbia’s green transition.
Funding to Support Green Investments and Job Protection
The funding will offer SMEs and mid-sized companies long-term, affordable financing for working capital and investment requirements. It will prioritize green investments, such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and clean transportation projects. The initiative aims to support 240 businesses, protect 25,000 jobs, and enhance climate resilience and economic competitiveness in Serbia.
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Technical Assistance for Green Finance Under EU for Green Agenda
The EU for Green Agenda in Serbia initiative will offer technical support to establish the credit line efficiently. It helps SMEs develop green projects and broadens Banca Intesa’s portfolio of green financial products for small businesses.
Robert de Groot, EIB Vice-President said, “By providing long-term, affordable funding, Intesa Sanpaolo Group and the EIB are collectively contributing to enhancing the resilience and decarbonisation of the Serbian economy, while spurring job creation, productivity and innovation.”
He added, “This approach brings the Serbian market closer to EU standards and encourages regional market integration in line with the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.”
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The partnership leverages nearly 20 years of collaboration between the EIB and Banca Intesa. Together, they’ve provided over €780 million to support 1,500 Serbian companies, safeguarding 86,000 jobs and generating 1,700 new ones.
Darko Popović, CEO of Banca Intesa Beograd, emphasized the partnership’s role in fostering sustainable growth: “The EIB is our key partner in efforts to support sustainable economic growth in Serbia by creating an environment where businesses can innovate, expand and reach their full potential.”
This funding supports the EU and EIB’s global role in climate finance. It encourages renewable energy investments, helping Serbia mitigate climate change and shift to a sustainable, low-carbon economy.