The European Investment Bank (EIB) is stepping up its support for the private sector to help deal with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Supported by the European Union’s External Investment Plan, we have launched the SME Access to Finance Initiative focused on the EU Neighbouring Countries and Sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative is designed to enhance access to finance for COVID-19 affected SMEs and underserved groups such as start-ups or women- and youth-led businesses. It is a part of the EIB's wider response package to support small and medium enterprises, which are particularly vulnerable to economic shocks.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is stepping up its support for the private sector to help deal with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Supported by the European Union’s External Investment Plan, we have launched the SME Access to Finance Initiative focused on the EU Neighbouring Countries and Sub-Saharan Africa. The initiative is designed to enhance access to finance for COVID-19 affected SMEs and underserved groups such as start-ups or women- and youth-led businesses. It is a part of the EIB's wider response package to support small and medium enterprises, which are particularly vulnerable to economic shocks.