Investment & Fund Management

The European Investment Fund (EIF) partnered with the Cooperative Credit Bank (BCC) Bellegra to address the challenges faced by micro-entrepreneurs in the Lazio region of Italy, particularly those who struggle to access traditional credit due to insufficient guarantees. The specific issue was the financial exclusion of individuals such as the self-employed, unemployed, ethnic minorities, women, and young people, who often lack the necessary collateral to secure loans.

To tackle this problem, the EIF provided EUR 2.5 million in micro-loans through the Progress Microfinance initiative, which is funded by the European Commission and the European Investment Bank. This funding enabled BCC Bellegra to launch a new micro-finance product named “CREAMI.EU,” specifically designed to support local entrepreneurship and foster economic and social development in the area. The initiative aims to provide guidance to approximately 120 local micro-borrowers, enhancing their entrepreneurial skills and banking knowledge to cultivate a new generation of responsible entrepreneurs.

As a result of this collaboration, BCC Bellegra has positioned itself as a key player in promoting financial inclusion and local economic development. The agreement marks the fourth signed under the Progress Microfinance initiative in Italy, contributing to a broader commitment of over EUR 130 million across Europe to benefit micro-borrowers. This initiative not only increases the volume of micro-loans available but also strengthens the capacity of local financial institutions to support underserved communities.