The agreement between the EIF and the European Investment Fund will provide Estonian companies with €109 million in preferential loans and guarantees to support the green, digital and innovation transitions. This will provide micro, small and medium-sized enterprises with better access to EU funds and facilitate economic recovery.

The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Foundation (EIF) has signed a landmark agreement with the European Investment Fund (EIF) under the InvestEU programme, which will enable it to provide up to €109 million in preferential financing opportunities. This strategic partnership will share risks between the EIF and the EIF, allowing the EIF to increase the flexibility of loan and guarantee terms in groups such as the green and digital transitions, innovation and social inclusion.

The Minister of Economic Affairs and Infrastructure said: “Making loans and guarantees more affordable is certainly good news for our entrepreneurs, which will put European Union funds to work to stimulate the economy.” He also emphasizes that the agreement will give private individuals and smaller companies better access to a loan house, which may have been too expensive or difficult for them until now.

Experts also believe that it is a significantly useful tool. For example, Leana Kammertöns, Export Advisor at Enterprise Estonia, said while participating in an international fair that, in addition to good conditions, the agreement will also create opportunities for entrepreneurs to “introduce their new products, familiarize themselves with trends and developments in the maritime industry, and make new contacts.” This means that in addition to money, it is also a bridge to European markets.

The support is aimed primarily at micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. It includes loans and guarantees that can be used for the purchase of tangible assets, investments, acquisition of intangible assets, or lease agreements in the form of capital leases. This flexibility helps critical sectors to operate and grow faster.

169 companies have already used the EIS Applied Research Programme, which supports broad-based innovative projects, with support reaching more than 26 million euros. This shows that the EIS can effectively target grants to those enterprises that help the Estonian economy move forward at all levels.

But every financial instrument requires careful use. Companies must ensure that the amount used earns a return both economically and socially. Success comes when loans are used effectively – for investments, research and development projects and value-based expansion activities.

This agreement provides Estonian entrepreneurs with real support for moving forward with EU financial instruments. Favorable loans and flexible guarantee solutions provide the opportunity for greater steps towards the green and digital transition, increasing competitiveness and opening doors to international markets. If you plan to innovate, develop, or strive for export, this helping hand is there for you.