The European Investment Bank (EIB Global) is set to provide guidance to the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina on green financing and enhance funding access for local companies. Through its Greening Financial Systems (GFS) technical assistance programme, EIB Global will advise the central bank on climate risk management, regulatory supervision, and improving green reporting standards. The initiative aims to help Bosnian banks assess corporate climate risk exposure and encourage the adoption of sustainable practices, supporting the growth of green investments across the country.
In addition, EIB Global has launched a €20 million credit line and signed a €3.3 million grant with Intesa Sanpaolo Banka d.d. BiH to facilitate financing for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-cap companies. These funds, introduced for the first time in Bosnia and Herzegovina, target businesses promoting inclusive employment practices, particularly for women, youth, and vulnerable social groups. The initiative aims to drive both environmental and social progress while fostering economic growth.
EIB Global’s efforts have been lauded by local and international officials. Miha Švent, EIB representative to Bosnia and Herzegovina, emphasized that the programme supports the country’s transition to an inclusive and climate-resilient economy by unlocking green investments and creating jobs. Central Bank Governor Jasmina Selimović highlighted the initiative’s importance in strengthening the financial system’s capacity to measure and manage climate risks, enhancing stability and modernizing the sector. Germany’s Ambassador Alfred Grannas noted that the programme aligns with efforts to promote a greener, more modern society in Bosnia and Herzegovina in line with EU integration ambitions.
The credit line and grant build on previous collaboration between EIB Global and Intesa Sanpaolo Banka d.d. BiH, which has already disbursed nearly €220 million in financing. These funds have supported over 300 companies, creating more than 1,600 new jobs and sustaining 27,000 others across the country. Michele Castoro, President of the Management Board of Intesa Sanpaolo Banka d.d. BiH, described the agreement as a milestone for promoting sustainability, inclusion, and long-term value creation in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s business sector.
EIB Global, the specialized arm of the European Investment Bank, works to increase the impact of international partnerships and development finance, supporting EU policy objectives in infrastructure, innovation, climate, environment, and SMEs. Intesa Sanpaolo Banka d.d. BiH, part of the Intesa Sanpaolo Group, is a leading commercial bank in the country, providing a wide range of corporate and retail banking services across Bosnia and Herzegovina through its extensive branch network and ATMs.
