Raiffeisen Bank Romania has strengthened its support for small and medium-sized enterprises by signing a guarantee agreement with the Romanian Investment and Development Bank (BID). Under this partnership, the bank will be able to provide total financing of over RON 1 billion to companies with annual turnover of up to €50 million, supported by a guarantee ceiling of RON 710 million.
Extended guarantees and improved access to funding
The guarantee mechanism covers up to 70% of the loan value and can reach 80% for certain categories of beneficiaries, including women-owned businesses, start-ups, and innovation-driven companies.
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The maximum guarantee period is up to 10 years, offering increased flexibility for long-term investments.
Alexandra Arsene, Director of SMEs at Raiffeisen Bank Romania, stated:
“This partnership with BID is a strategic step that improves entrepreneurs’ access to financing and modern guarantee instruments, actively contributing to economic development and innovation.”
Eligible uses and strategic focus
SMEs can apply for financing to support digitalization, modernization, and energy efficiency projects, as well as investments in equipment, production capacity expansion, and commercial or storage facilities. Working capital loans are also eligible, covering expenses such as taxes, salaries, inventories, and utilities.
Teodora Petre, Executive Director Commercial Area at BID, highlighted the broader impact:
“The SME portfolio guarantee is a tool that turns BID’s strategic objectives into tangible support for Romanian entrepreneurs, encouraging investments in digitalization, innovation, and the transition to a green economy.”
Certain activities, including real estate development, grain trading, and agricultural inputs, are excluded under the BID framework.
The guarantee program runs until December 31, 2027, and aims to significantly improve SMEs’ access to finance without tying up personal assets, supporting a competitive and sustainable business environment in Romania.
Photo: Romania Insider
