The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Banca Ifis have agreed on a €200 million deal to support the growth of pharmacies across Italy, with special attention to female entrepreneurs and pharmacies in cohesion regions, according to an EIB press release. The announcement was made by EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti and Banca Ifis Vice-President Rosalba Benedetto.
The EIB will provide €100 million in two contracts of €50 million each, offering Banca Ifis a credit line at favorable rates. Banca Ifis will match this amount, making the total funding available to Italian pharmacies €200 million. Loans will be given through Banca Credifarma, a specialist financial institution under Banca Ifis focused on pharmacy needs.
At least 30% of the funding—over €60 million—will support pharmacies that are mostly owned or run by women or that show strong policies for female employment beyond the usual sector levels. The initiative will also target pharmacies in regions with lower economic cohesion.
“The deal is a clear step toward a more inclusive and dynamic economy,” said EIB Vice-President Vigliotti. “Backing small businesses builds a stronger environment and creates opportunities for women, while encouraging growth and social unity.”
Banca Ifis Vice-President Benedetto added that this deal underlines their ongoing support for Italy’s small and medium businesses, women’s entrepreneurship, and local pharmacies, which serve as key health points in their communities.
Since 2019, EIB and Banca Ifis have provided over €800 million for Italian small and medium businesses. This is the first time the EIB has created a loan line aimed solely at pharmacies.
