EBRD and EU Invest €377 Million in Digital Transformation for SMEs in the Western Balkans

Brussels – The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in collaboration with the European Union, has launched the “Go Digital” initiative, which has a budget of 377 million euros. This program is designed to promote the digitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Western Balkans, fostering innovation and growth within the private sector.

The initiative will provide funding to SMEs in the region through a mix of loans, grants, and technical support for investments in digital technologies, automation, and environmentally friendly practices.

Specifically, the EBRD plans to distribute up to 350 million euros in loans to local financial institutions in the Western Balkans, which will then extend these funds to SMEs. Additionally, businesses will be eligible for grant incentives, covering 10 percent of the loan amount, supported by EU funding. The EU will contribute a total of 27.6 million euros in grants and technical assistance through the Investment Framework for the Western Balkans (WBIF).

This new program builds on a successful pilot initiative in Bosnia and Herzegovina that has already provided support to nearly 200 local businesses.

Francis Malige, the EBRD’s Managing Director, emphasized that the program aims to bridge technological gaps and significantly boost the digital capabilities of SMEs in the Western Balkans, enhancing their innovation, productivity, and global competitiveness.

Adebayo Babajide, the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlighted that this regional initiative demonstrates the European Union’s commitment to supporting SMEs, which are essential to the region’s economies.

– “This program is expected to benefit around 750 businesses by providing essential support for innovation, digitalization, and the adoption of green technologies,” Babajide stated. “It builds on our successful pilot project in Bosnia and Herzegovina, valued at 11.5 million euros, which has already helped over 200 companies enhance their productivity and competitiveness.”

Babajide added that the grants not only offer technical expertise and incentives but also facilitate more accessible financing options for SMEs, particularly those led by women. (April 10, 2025)