The European Investment Bank (EIB) has provided €150 million to ČSOB Leasing to enhance its financing capacity and create long-term funding for green investments by Slovak small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and Mid-Caps. This partnership is expected to mobilize over €420 million in total investment, with a focus on EU cohesion regions, supporting climate action, economic convergence, and improving quality of life across Slovakia.
The funding will enable Slovak companies to modernize vehicle fleets, machinery, and equipment, while supporting the deployment of electric and hybrid vehicles, energy-efficient machinery, and renewable energy solutions such as rooftop solar. These investments are designed to accelerate the green transition, reduce energy costs, and cut emissions, contributing to a more sustainable and competitive Slovak economy.
EIB Vice-President Mora emphasized that the partnership aims to safeguard jobs, foster sustainable regional development, and strengthen Slovakia’s competitiveness. Michal Hollý, CFO of ČSOB Leasing, highlighted that this financing will help clients modernize their businesses and maintain competitiveness in challenging economic conditions.
This operation builds on the EIB’s long-standing collaboration with the KBC Group, which has been supporting Slovak companies for over two decades. SMEs and Mid-Caps are crucial to the Slovak economy, representing approximately 75% of jobs in the private sector and 59% of overall employment in the country.
The new financing addresses gaps in long-term credit access, particularly for investments in low-carbon technologies outside major urban centers. It combines climate and cohesion objectives by offering favorable funding conditions and longer maturities tailored to Slovak SMEs and Mid-Caps. The EIB Group also plans to provide advisory support through its Green Gateway facility, helping ČSOB Leasing identify, assess, and report on green projects to maximize climate and environmental impact.
The EIB Group, owned by the EU’s 27 Member States, is one of the world’s largest multilateral development banks, providing financing and advisory services across climate action, digital innovation, social infrastructure, and other strategic areas. Its subsidiary, the European Investment Fund (EIF), specializes in guarantees and equity to improve access to finance for SMEs and startups, mobilizing private investment and supporting the growth of innovative European entrepreneurs. Initiatives such as the European Tech Champions Initiative have scaled innovative startups, creating venture capital mega-funds and nurturing high-growth companies, including multiple unicorns.
