The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has committed up to €6 million to Banka për Biznes in Kosovo, aimed at supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

This initiative is designed to bolster entrepreneurship and increase market competitiveness by enhancing financial access for private MSMEs. It also focuses on fostering innovative strategies in product and marketing, particularly in MSME lending practices at Banka për Biznes.

The investment specifically targets expanding Banka për Biznes's lending abilities, with special attention to the agricultural and manufacturing sectors in Kosovo, which have been relatively underserved. A significant portion of the EBRD's commitment, 30%, is earmarked for environmentally sustainable projects under the EBRD’s Green Economy Transition approach, aligning with the bank's strategic goal of promoting green economy in Kosovo.

Sergiy Maslichenko, the EBRD Head of Kosovo, expressed enthusiasm for supporting Banka për Biznes's small business lending efforts. He emphasized the importance of bolstering the private sector, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing, for job creation, innovation, and the overall economic development of Kosovo.

Mimoza Godanci, CEO of Banka për Biznes, acknowledged the significant role of the enduring partnership with the EBRD in facilitating the growth of MSMEs in Kosovo. She highlighted the contribution of this collaboration to the economic vitality of Kosovo and its progress towards regional integration.

Founded in 2001, Banka për Biznes is a universal bank in Kosovo with a specific focus on catering to the banking needs of local MSMEs. The EBRD, a long-term partner, holds a 10% equity stake in the bank.

The partnership between the EBRD and Banka për Biznes was also instrumental in launching the Western Balkans Youth in Business programme, first introduced in Kosovo, which concentrates on supporting MSMEs.

In Kosovo, the EBRD's strategic priorities include promoting the green economy, supporting the competitive development of the private sector, and fostering regional integration. The bank has invested over €625 million in Kosovo across more than 100 projects to date.