A wide range of Croatian businesses and public entities will receive fresh financial support for green and other investment projects following the signing of a €150 million ($175 million) loan agreement between the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Croatian Bank for Reconstruction and Development (HBOR).
The funding, aimed at mid-cap companies and public sector organisations, represents the first tranche of a broader €350 million credit line agreed between the EIB and HBOR to enhance access to finance across Croatia.
The financing will be channelled through both direct lending by HBOR and via local commercial banks and financial intermediaries. At least 30% of the loan will be dedicated to climate and environmental initiatives, including projects that promote energy efficiency, renewable energy deployment, sustainable building materials, and clean mobility solutions.
EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska described the initiative as a key driver of green growth in the region. “This initiative will expand financial support to a broad range of Croatian companies and public entities, with a strong emphasis on climate action and sustainability,” she said. “It reflects our shared commitment to unlocking green and inclusive growth across all regions of the country.”
Structured as a multi-beneficiary intermediated loan (MBIL), the agreement is designed to contribute to the European Union’s objectives on climate mitigation and environmental protection, while also supporting regional economic development and social cohesion within Croatia.
HBOR will be responsible for ensuring that recipients of the financing comply with relevant EU and national regulations. The bank has previously demonstrated a solid track record in implementing EIB-financed projects in line with environmental, social, and climate standards.
Hrvoje Čuvalo, President of HBOR’s Management Board, welcomed the continued cooperation with the EIB. “We are pleased to continue our longstanding partnership with the EIB, aimed at strengthening a sustainable and resilient economy,” he said. “This new financing further reinforces HBOR’s role in supporting green and climate-resilient projects, contributing to the achievement of Croatia’s and the European Union’s strategic goals in the area of green transition.”
