The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) will provide a €25m guarantee to Crnogorska komercijalna banka (CKB) in Montenegro to boost lending for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). This initiative is supported by the European Union and will enable up to €50m in new SME lending through EBRD’s portfolio risk-sharing product.

CKB will be able to lend with its own funds while sharing risk through the EBRD and EU-backed structure. This collaboration aims to expand access to finance for underserved businesses in Montenegro and empower micro and small enterprises. The EBRD has invested over €1bn in Montenegro, focusing on sustainable development, infrastructure, and private sector progress.

The EBRD’s guarantee marks a significant milestone in efforts to support MSMEs in Montenegro. This partnership with CKB and the EU will enhance financial options for Montenegro’s private sector. CKB is the first bank in the country to introduce the portfolio risk-sharing instrument, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and supporting small businesses in the region.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: EBRD to offer $29m guarantee to CKB for MSMEs in Montenegro