ZAGREB, 29 Jan (Hina) – The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) invested €287.4 million in 17 projects in Croatia in 2025, with all financing directed toward the private sector, the EBRD announced on Thursday.
Almost 80 percent of all investments were directed at the corporate sector, ranging from food production and trade to renewable energy.
Among the most significant projects were an equity investment of €16.7 million in IE-Energy Projekt, the first major battery energy storage project in Croatia; a €50 million loan to BMT Alutech Solutions for the construction of a new automotive industry factory for brake-by-wire systems; and €70 million to the retail chain Studenac for further business expansion.
The EBRD also supported the development of private equity funds in the region through investments in the Provectus SEE Fund II, ALFI Private Equity Fund III, and Booster Capital Fund.
The financial sector continued to play an important role, including support for PBZ Leasing through a €25 million credit line to finance small and medium-sized enterprises.
The EBRD remained actively involved in the capital market, investing €38.2 million in sustainability-linked bonds (SLB) issued by Bosqar Invest.
In addition to financing, the EBRD in 2025 continued to strongly support structural reforms crucial for enhancing the competitiveness of the economy and society’s resilience to climate change. Particular emphasis was placed on the development of the capital market in Croatia through support in preparing a strategic framework for the development of the Croatian capital market and its regional integration with eight Central and Eastern European countries.
The bank also supported improvements in the management of state-owned real estate, enhancing transparency and professional standards in line with OECD guidelines, while creating long-term conditions for sustainable growth.
Support for the energy transition was further deepened through research into the potential of new renewable energy sources, battery energy storage systems, and carbon dioxide storage possibilities.
The investment of €287.4 million in 2025 demonstrates the EBRD’s strong confidence in the Croatian economy and private sector. This was a year of innovation — from the first major battery energy storage project to record activities in the capital market,В said Miljan Ždrale, EBRD Regional Director for Central Europe.
Since the start of its operationsВ in Croatia, the EBRD has invested more than €5.2 billion in 276 projects in the country.
The EBRD is a multilateral bank that promotes private sector development and entrepreneurial initiatives in 42 economies across three continents. It is owned by 77 countries, the EU, and the European Investment Bank.
