Investment & Fund Management
The European Investment
Full Credential Description
Croatian micro-enterprises and start-ups faced significant challenges in accessing financing for essential equipment purchases, particularly for small machinery and equipment valued up to EUR 25,000. The European Investment Fund (EIF) identified this gap and extended a EUR 10 million guarantee to UniCredit Leasing Croatia, the largest leasing company in the country. This initiative was part of the Investment Plan for Europe, also known as the Juncker Plan, which aims to support higher-risk operations through guarantees from the EU budget.
The tailored solution provided by EIF allowed UniCredit Leasing Croatia to offer more competitive leasing terms to micro-enterprises, which included reduced collateral requirements. This partnership not only facilitated access to financing but also included additional support through workshops and training sessions focused on company management and financial literacy. This comprehensive approach aimed to strengthen the operational capabilities of these micro-companies, fostering long-term sustainable development in the Croatian economy.
As a result of this initiative, Croatian micro-enterprises gained new financing opportunities, enabling them to purchase necessary equipment and machinery. The EIF's support through the Employment and Social Innovation Programme (EaSI) further enhanced the impact by promoting quality employment and combating social exclusion. This collaboration is expected to significantly contribute to the growth and sustainability of micro-sized enterprises in Croatia, aligning with the broader objectives of the Juncker Plan to stimulate economic growth and job creation across the EU.