The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in a strategic partnership with NLB Komercijalna Banka (NLBKBB), is enhancing the financial accessibility for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Serbia through a dedicated €15 million loan. This funding is earmarked for on-lending to Serbian SMEs, facilitating their investment in innovative green technologies and equipment to bolster sustainability and align with European Union (EU) directives and global standards.

This initiative allows NLBKBB to extend sub-loans to qualified SMEs, enabling them to adopt new green technologies and practices. Such advancements will not only improve their sustainability but also ensure compliance with EU and international regulations on environmental protection, worker safety, and product quality.

Additionally, SMEs benefiting from this program will have the opportunity to receive grant incentives up to 15% of their loan amount. These incentives are supported by an international coalition of donors, including Luxembourg, Norway, and the United States, through the Small Business Impact Fund, which aims to facilitate the SMEs' transition to green and sustainable business practices.

The collaboration between the EBRD and NLBKBB is set to offer comprehensive support to SMEs, addressing challenges related to upgrading production facilities, adhering to strict EU and global standards, and fostering environmental conservation. This effort is poised to enhance the competitive edge of Serbian SMEs and contribute significantly to the nation's ecological transition.

Recognizing SMEs as the cornerstone of the Serbian economy—accounting for two-thirds of employment—this initiative underscores the critical role of financial access in bolstering Serbia’s integration into regional and global markets, especially in light of its ongoing efforts towards EU integration.

NLBKBB, celebrated for its universal banking services and extensive client base, boasts one of Serbia's largest networks of automated teller machines (ATMs) and branches, reinforcing its commitment to serving a broad spectrum of customers.

As a leading institutional investor in Serbia, the EBRD’s cumulative investment exceeds €8.9 billion across 348 projects, predominantly supporting the private sector. The bank’s strategic focus in Serbia centers on fostering private-sector competitiveness, promoting the green energy transition, and developing sustainable infrastructure, highlighting its dedication to Serbia’s progressive economic growth and environmental stewardship.