Investment & Fund Management
The European Investment
Full Credential Description
The European Investment Fund (EIF) and Credito Valtellinese signed a guarantee agreement to support lending to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Italy under the Risk Sharing Instrument (RSI). This initiative aims to address the challenges faced by innovative companies in accessing necessary financing, particularly in an uncertain economic environment. The agreement allows Credito Valtellinese to provide up to EUR 100 million in debt finance over two years, backed by a 50% guarantee from the EIF. This support is crucial for SMEs that require investment financing and operating capital to foster research, development, and innovation activities.
The RSI is designed to encourage banks to lend to SMEs and small mid-caps with fewer than 500 employees, thereby facilitating access to finance for innovation-driven businesses. This agreement marks the third RSI initiative in Italy and the thirteenth across Europe, contributing to a total loan finance pool exceeding EUR 1 billion for innovative businesses within the EU. The EIF's involvement not only enhances the lending capacity of Credito Valtellinese but also strengthens the relationship between the bank and the enterprises it serves, ultimately supporting the growth and development of the SME sector in Italy.