EBRD and EU boost digitalisation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

• EBRD to lend €3 million to ProCredit Bank under the Go Digital in the Western Balkans programme
• Investments in digital technology to boost competitiveness of small businesses, drive innovation, sustainability and inclusivity
• European Union grants to help make investments more affordable

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is providing €3 million to ProCredit Bank in Bosnia and Herzegovina to on-lend to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for investments in digital and automation technology. The loan is being made under the European Union (EU) supported Go Digital in the Western Balkans programme, which aims to drive innovation, competitiveness and sustainable growth in the private sector.

In addition to loans, SMEs will benefit from grant incentives of 10 per cent of the loan amount, funded by the EU.

Francis Malige, EBRD Managing Director for Financial Institutions, met ProCredit Bank management and discussed the EBRD’s activities in the financial sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as key initiatives for the upcoming period. This is the third loan focusing on SMEs’ investments in digitalisation that the EBRD has signed with ProCredit Bank, indicating a growing need of this type of financing in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Francis Malige said: “I’m very happy to be here today to sign a Go Digital loan with ProCredit. It is more than a mere investment in technology – it’s an investment in people. By empowering SMEs to embrace automation, digitalisation and sustainability, we are creating opportunities for businesses to grow, compete and innovate. This initiative not only strengthens economic resilience but also ensures that women-led enterprises have fair access to the resources they need to thrive. Ultimately, Go Digital is about building a future where businesses across the Western Balkans can succeed in an increasingly digital and green economy.”

Amir Salkanović, President of the Management Board of ProCredit Bank BiH, highlighted the significance of the programme for the local economy:

"During the programme’s pilot phase, we saw many small and medium-sized enterprises successfully leverage the Go Digital programme to enhance their operations. Digitalization is not just the future; it is a necessity for maintaining competitiveness in the market. Investing in new technologies and automation strengthens business resilience while fostering long term growth and development. We remain committed to expanding access to programs like this, as SMEs are the foundation of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s economic stability," said Salkanović.

In parallel with digitalisation, investments will be directed towards green economy transition (GET) technologies, helping businesses implement sustainable solutions that contribute to environmental resilience. By unlocking additional resources, businesses will be better positioned to align themselves with EU standards, expand their trade potential and increase their capacity to compete on a global scale.

Furthermore, the initiative promotes inclusive economic growth by ensuring women-led SMEs have equitable access to finance, fostering a more diverse and resilient private sector.

Since the EBRD began operating in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it has invested more than €3.3 billion in 244 projects there.