- EBRD loan to ProCredit to boost green investments by SMEs in Kosovo
- 25 per cent of supported SMEs will be women-led
- EU to provide investment incentives under its Western Balkans Investment Framework
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is strengthening its partnership with ProCredit Bank Kosovo (ProCredit) to advance green investments and inclusive growth among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The Bank is providing €10 million under its SME Go Green programme for on-lending to local firms, enabling them to enhance their competitiveness and trade potential through targeted sustainability investments and the adoption of internationally recognised quality standards.
The loan will be complemented by grant incentives of up to €1.5 million funded by the European Union (EU) through its Western Balkans Investment Framework. Local firms will receive up to 15 per cent of their loan value once the investment has been successfully completed and validated.
At least a third of supported investments will be in the agribusiness value chain and at least a quarter of financed SMEs will be led by women entrepreneurs.
The financing, which is fully aligned with the EBRD’s Green Economy Transition approach, will be entirely dedicated to green investments.
The agreement was signed by the EBRD’s Vice President for Banking, Matteo Patrone, and ProCredit’s CEO, Visar Paçarada, during a visit by Mr Patrone to Kosovo.
Mr Patrone said: “Supporting small businesses in their transition to greener and more inclusive business models is at the heart of the EBRD’s mission. This partnership with ProCredit will help unlock investments in energy efficiency, agribusiness and women-led enterprises, driving sustainable growth and resilience across the country.”
Mr Paçarada said: “At ProCredit Bank, we are committed to being more than just a financial partner – we aim to be a driver of positive change. This partnership allows us to expand our support for SMEs, enabling them to adopt greener practices, strengthen agribusiness and empower women-led enterprises. Together, we are investing in a more sustainable, inclusive and resilient economy for the future.”
ProCredit, a longstanding partner of the EBRD, is a leading SME bank in Kosovo, recognised for its commitment to supporting local businesses and advancing green transformation. The EBRD held a minority stake in ProCredit between 2001 and 2007.
This new financing project aligns with the EBRD’s commitment to supporting Kosovo’s transition to a low-carbon economy, fostering innovation and promoting gender equality.
Overall, the EBRD has invested more than €800 million through 126 projects in Kosovo.