Investment & Fund Management

The European Investment Fund (EIF) and UniCredit Bank Austria signed a significant guarantee agreement aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Austria through the Risk Sharing Instrument (RSI). This initiative addresses the critical issue of access to finance for innovative companies, particularly those engaged in research and development (R&D) and innovation. The RSI allows UniCredit Bank Austria to offer up to EUR 120 million in new loans over the next two years, specifically targeting SMEs and small mid-caps that require funding for investments and working capital.

The tailored solution provided by the EIF through the RSI includes a 50% guarantee on the outstanding amount of each loan, which significantly reduces the risk for the bank and encourages lending to innovative businesses. This arrangement not only facilitates easier access to finance for entrepreneurs but also enables UniCredit Bank Austria to offer loans on more favorable terms, thereby passing on cost advantages to its customers. The initiative is expected to stimulate the Austrian economy by supporting up to 1,000 beneficiaries with a total loan volume of up to EUR 1 billion.

The implementation of the RSI marks a pioneering step in Europe, with UniCredit Bank Austria being the first bank to offer these RSI-backed loans. This strategic partnership highlights the EIF's commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the EU, as well as its role in enhancing the financial landscape for SMEs in Austria.