The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Pekao Leasing have entered into a new credit agreement to support the sustainable development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Poland. At least 20% of the total amount has been allocated to ecological projects, highlighting both institutions’ commitment to environmental responsibility. The funds will assist less developed regions in the country, in line with the EIB’s priority to promote cohesion throughout the European Union (EU).
“Supporting the development of small and medium-sized enterprises is one of the most important tasks of the EIB. Just last year, EIB Group’s financing for this sector amounted to over 31 billion euros, supporting 400,000 businesses and 5.4 million jobs. Small and medium enterprises are key for innovation and energy transformation. The new agreement with Pekao Leasing is another example of the significant commitment of the EIB Group to the growth and competitiveness of Polish SMEs,” said Teresa Czerwińska, Vice President of the EIB.
“We estimate that this agreement will support investments worth 420 million euros. At least 20% set aside for funding climate-friendly projects will allow businesses to replace machinery, equipment, and means of transport with more modern, energy-efficient alternatives,” she added.
Guarantees from the PZU Group have increased the financing offered on favourable terms, and Bank Pekao was the transaction’s organizer.
“Bank Pekao S.A. Group’s cooperation with the European Investment Bank dates back to 2004. It’s critical for us, enabling support for Polish companies wishing to grow in compliance with current climate protection demands. It is noteworthy that, over the years, in line with our SME and ESG strategy, we have obtained finance multiple times from the EIB to support investments in climate protection, sustainable environmental development and women’s entrepreneurship, which significantly contributed to these areas,” said Robert Sochacki, Vice President of Bank Pekao S.A.’s board.
“As the PZU Group, we want to co-create a better, safer and greener future. Therefore, we actively support initiatives that help Polish companies grow and, at the same time, positively impact the environment and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. The insurance guarantees provided by PZU are one of the tools we use to support our clients and business partners in the process of green transformation, a key component of our sustainable development policy. I am convinced that the new EIB credit agreement with Pekao Leasing will serve this purpose well,” said Bartosz Grześkowiak, member of the PZU SA board.
A significant part of the financing will be allocated for improving energy efficiency and developing renewable energy sources, and for preparing a competitive leasing offer for low-emission transport means.
“Securing 150 million euros from the European Investment Bank is another step in strengthening our cooperation, which has been supporting the development of small and medium-sized enterprises in Poland for many years. We are particularly pleased that a significant part of these funds will be used for ecological projects, in line with our strategy to support sustainable development and care for the environment. It also presents a great opportunity for Polish companies to invest in modern, energy-efficient solutions that will drive their growth and competitiveness,” noted Maciej Kijo, board member of Pekao Leasing.
Source: https://managerplus.pl/150-mln-euro-od-ebi-dla-pekao-leasing-na-rozwoj-ekologicznych-inwestycji-i-wsparcie-msp-68846
