The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has approved a €70 million loan for NLB Komercijalna banka to help increase the availability of financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Serbia. This support comes under the EBRD’s Financial Intermediaries Framework (FIF), which aims to strengthen local financial institutions and improve access to finance for private businesses.

With this funding, NLB Komercijalna banka will be able to offer more working-capital loans and long-term investment loans to SMEs. This is particularly important for businesses operating outside major cities, where financing options are often limited and companies face ongoing challenges in securing the funds they need to grow.

A notable part of the loan—at least 30 percent—will be dedicated to investments that promote the transition to a greener economy. These funds will support projects that enhance energy efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and develop renewable-energy solutions. By directing financing toward environmentally responsible initiatives, the project aims to help businesses reduce operating costs while contributing to Serbia’s broader sustainability goals.

SMEs are a vital part of Serbia’s economic landscape. They account for a large portion of employment and contribute significantly to the country’s economic output. However, despite their importance, many SMEs still struggle to obtain long-term financing, which limits their ability to expand, modernize, and compete. Through this loan, the EBRD aims to address these gaps by providing stable funding and encouraging strong environmental and financial practices within the private sector.

Aleksandra Vukosavljević, the EBRD’s Director of Financial Institutions for the Western Balkans and Eastern Europe, explained that this financing will enable NLB Komercijalna banka to further increase lending to SMEs across Serbia. She noted that the support will help drive business growth, create jobs, and contribute to regional development. She also emphasized that channeling a significant share of the funds into green investments will support Serbia’s ongoing shift toward a more sustainable and resilient economy.

The EBRD continues to play a major role in Serbia’s development. It is the country’s largest institutional investor, with more than €10.7 billion invested through over 400 projects to date. Its work in Serbia focuses on strengthening the private sector, supporting the green economy, and improving sustainable infrastructure.