Prime Highlights :
- The EBRD approved a €4 million loan to support women-led businesses across Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- The programme aims to improve credit access for women entrepreneurs and support inclusive economic growth.
Key Facts :
- European Bank for Reconstruction and Development supports private sector growth and development projects across emerging economies.
- Mikrofin Banja Luka operates through 110 branches and serves entrepreneurs, farmers and small businesses nationwide.
Background :
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development has approved a €4 million senior loan to Mikrofin Banja Luka to support women-led businesses across Bosnia and Herzegovina under the second phase of the Western Balkans Women in Business programme.
The financing aims to improve access to credit for women entrepreneurs operating micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. The programme will help women start, expand and formalise businesses, especially in smaller towns and communities outside major urban areas.
Officials said the initiative seeks to address long-standing financial barriers faced by women entrepreneurs, including limited credit history and strict collateral requirements. The funding package also includes technical assistance and risk-sharing support through the EBRD Shareholder Special Fund.
Mikrofin Banja Luka will use the support to strengthen its lending products and outreach programmes for women-owned businesses. The institution said women clients already account for around 40% of its customer base and the new programme would help improve lending opportunities for female borrowers.
EBRD officials said women entrepreneurs play an important role in local economies but often face greater challenges in securing business financing. The bank said helping women-led businesses grow could support broader economic development, create jobs and strengthen long-term financial stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Founded in 1997, Mikrofin operates through 110 branches across the country and serves micro entrepreneurs, farmers and small businesses. The institution has previously partnered with the EBRD on green financing and emergency response programmes.
The EBRD has invested more than €3.4 billion across 260 projects in Bosnia and Herzegovina to support infrastructure, private businesses and economic development.
