The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), alongside the European Union (EU), introduced the SME Go Green initiative.
This program is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the Western Balkans adopting eco-friendly practices.
Starting with an initial funding of €120 million, the initiative aims to grow to €400 million in the coming years.
The formal launch occurred in Bosnia and Herzegovina at Europe House in Sarajevo on October 29.
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The SME Go Green initiative aligns with the objectives of the Paris Agreement, promoting sustainable development throughout the Western Balkans.
This program aims to enhance SMEs’ access to green funding through targeted financing and investment incentives.
It also provides technical support, allowing them to invest in environmentally sustainable practices.
Aleksandra Vukosavljevic, the EBRD Director for Financial Institutions, Western Balkans and Eastern Europe said, “The SME Go Green programme aims to facilitate the adoption of sustainable practices by local SMEs while equipping them with the necessary tools to excel in their particular areas.”
She added, “Our objective is to assist SMEs in aligning their products and services with the highest EU climate and environmental standards, thereby enhancing their competitiveness on a global scale.”
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The EU is contributing €25 million in grants through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) to support this initiative.
This initiative aims to stimulate green investments in the region, and future installments will likely provide further EU funding.
The program strongly focuses on agribusiness value chains, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience, especially within the agricultural sector.
It also emphasises gender equality by ensuring women-led SMEs have fair access to climate finance and resources.
The organisation will dedicate one-third of the funding to invest in green technology for agriculture, while it will allocate one-quarter specifically to support women-led SMEs.
SME Go Green aspires to enhance the competitiveness of SMEs and broaden their trade opportunities.
This is achieved by advocating for compliance with international quality standards and sustainable practices.
Additionally, the initiative seeks to fortify the local financial sector by promoting climate resilience and inclusivity in Western Balkan economies.
EBRD will collaborate with local financial institutions to implement the programme, furthering its regional impact.