Published:02.12.2024
Related countries:
United Arab Emirates - flag United Arab Emirates

Czech Businesses to Benefit from €400 Million EIB Loans

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has approved €400 million in loans to two key Czech financial institutions, Komerční banka and SG Equipment Finance Czech Republic (SGEF), aimed at supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Mid-Cap companies in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Each institution will receive €200 million, with funding designed to enhance access to finance for businesses in both countries. This support is expected to contribute significantly to economic development, job creation, and environmental sustainability. A notable portion of the funding is dedicated to projects promoting climate action and environmental sustainability, aligning with the EIB's mission to combat climate change. These projects include investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and environmentally friendly transportation. Additionally, the loans will support initiatives fostering economic and social cohesion, with more than 90% of the funds directed to less developed regions.

“SMEs and Mid-Caps are the backbone of the European economy, and their development is a top priority for the EIB,” said EIB Vice-President Kyriacos Kakouris. “Our collaboration with Komerční banka and SGEF ensures long-term, stable financing for innovative projects that drive green and digital transitions, reinforcing Europe's competitiveness.” The partnership between the EIB, Komerční banka, and SGEF will blend EIB funding with the financial resources of these institutions, enabling more favorable financing terms and improved accessibility for beneficiaries.

Komerční banka's Loan: Will focus on SME and Mid-Cap investments, particularly in renewable energy and energy-efficient technologies, such as solar, wind, and biomass energy. The funding will also benefit housing cooperatives and homeowners' associations aiming to improve the energy efficiency of large residential buildings.

“Our collaboration with the EIB allows us to offer competitive financing for business projects, contributing to economic growth in the Czech Republic,” said David Formánek, Board Member for Corporate and Investment Banking at Komerční banka. SGEF's Loan: Will support investments by SMEs, Mid-Caps, and public entities, with a specific emphasis on sustainable development and climate action projects.

“Our longstanding partnership with the EIB has delivered significant benefits to Czech and Slovak clients, bolstering their competitive edge and advancing sustainability,” noted SGEF CFO Petr Němec. This initiative builds on the EIB’s nearly two-decade-long collaboration with these institutions, which has resulted in billions of euros in funding and improved financial conditions for thousands of businesses.

Since 2005, SGEF has received €2.1 billion from the EIB, while Komerční banka has secured €1.2 billion since 2006. These new loans reaffirm the EIB's dedication to fostering economic growth, sustainability, and innovation in the region.

Source: European Investment Bank