EIB provides €100m loan to PBZ to support Croatian SMEs and green investments
21 March 2025
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has granted a €100 million loan to Privredna Banka Zagreb (PBZ), a subsidiary of Intesa Sanpaolo, to strengthen access to finance for Croatian SMEs and Mid-Caps, and accelerate green investments across the country.
The EIB loan channels EU-backed funds into Croatia’s economy to boost business competitiveness, promote clean energy projects, and support inclusive growth.
The €100 million loan will be disbursed in tranches over three years, beginning with an initial €50 million signed on March 21st.
The total facility will be allocated to SMEs and Mid-Caps, with at least 70% specifically directed to SMEs. In addition, a minimum of 20% of the funds must support green projects carried out by SMEs and Mid-Caps, such as those focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy.
The EIB further encourages allocating 10%, on a best-effort basis to businesses owned or led by women.
“Through the cooperation with EIB, Privredna Banka Zagreb will actively support its clients and their sustainable projects, particularly those with a green component that are focused on energy efficiency and renewable energy production. This is fully aligned with Intesa Sanpaolo’s strategic commitment to ESG principles"
Dinko Lucić, President of the Management Board of PBZ
All funds will be invested within Croatia, contributing to the EU’s goal of strengthening regional cohesion and building economic resilience.
The loan signed in March builds on over a decade of financial cooperation between PBZ and the EIB, which has resulted in approximately €200 million in direct lending since 2014.
Moreover, Intesa Sanpaolo has partnered with the EIB to provide nearly €660m to promote economic growth in the CEE region since 2020.
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