SMEs receive support from EBRD

In every economy, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) provide the backbone because they create employment, innovation, and increase the overall productivity of a nation. For many years, the EBRD and their various donors have recognised this and helped wherever possible. Whether it is financial help or perhaps just advice from a group of experts, they help SMEs to thrive.

In 2016, this continued and their passion for this industry was clear to see. Coupled with the EBRD, around €160 million made its way to SMEs across all of Europe from the EU last year. Surprisingly, Albania was the biggest donor from the EU and they were joined by the EBRD Shareholder Special Fund, the Western Balkans Investment Fund, Taiwan Business-EBRD Technical Cooperation Fund, Shell, Korea, Italy, Switzerland, Italy, Japan, and the US.

Over time, this money has had a great impact on the businesses. In total, it is thought that €1.2 billion has been made available through various financing options and thousands of SMEs sought advice through the networks set up by the EBRD. As this is set to continue long into the future, we can be confident that SMEs are given every opportunity to excel in their market.