EBRD extends €5 million to Banka për Biznes in Kosovo
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is extending a €5 million loan to Banka për Biznes in Kosovo to support the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country. This transaction will be the second credit line to Banka për Biznes under the same programme, capitalising on the expertise and knowledge that has been built up following the full utilisation of the previous facility, which was signed in 2018.

The new facility is part of the Western Balkans SME Competitiveness Support Programme, to which the EBRD provides loans and the European Union (EU) contributes incentive payments and technical assistance. The goal is to help SMEs modernise their activities and take advantage of trade opportunities in the Western Balkans region and wider European market.

The funds will support local small businesses to reach best industry standards and implement EU directives. The aim is to encourage SMEs to invest in upgrades in three key areas: environmental protection, health and safety, and product quality. At least 60 per cent of all loans will support energy-saving investments.

Participating SMEs will also have access to tailor-made advice and know-how for introducing and implementing standards and directives to make them more competitive in EU markets. In addition, they will benefit from grant incentives worth up to 15 per cent of the total loan amount on successful project completion. The dedicated technical assistance and grants are both funded by the EU under the Western Balkans Enterprise Development and Innovation Facility (WB EDIF).