The European Investment Fund (EIF) and UniCredit Bank Austria have agreed to expand their partnership to unlock €360 million in new financing for Austrian businesses investing in innovation, digital tech, and sustainability, the organizations said. The deal will help more than 200 small and mid-sized companies across the country move ahead with projects that strengthen the economy and support the green transition.
“Austria’s competitiveness depends on innovative business, digital progress, and leadership in sustainable development,” said Karl Nehammer, EIB Vice President. “Through this partnership with UniCredit Bank Austria and the European Investment Fund, hundreds of Austrian companies can invest in their ideas and drive a green, digital future.”
Ivan Vlaho, CEO of UniCredit Bank Austria, said the bank is proud to work with EIF to offer targeted financing for Austrian firms.
“This new facility will help businesses take on ambitious projects and strengthen the backbone of Austria’s economy. We invite companies across Austria to reach out and see how they can benefit.”
Under the agreement, signed at UniCredit Austria’s Vienna headquarters, a new €250 million EIF guarantee will let the bank offer better financing terms to more than 200 small and mid-sized businesses. The expanded partnership builds on a 2022 InvestEU agreement—the first of its kind in Austria—and delivers stronger support for innovators, digital pioneers, and green leaders.
The new funding includes €150 million for innovation and digitalization and €100 million for sustainability, making sure businesses can invest in new tech, climate action, and long-term growth. Austrian companies looking to finance research, digital expansion, or green projects can contact UniCredit Bank Austria to learn more about eligibility.
The deal raises the total InvestEU-backed guarantee with UniCredit Bank Austria to €340 million, supporting a portfolio expected to reach €486 million for up to 270 businesses. It’s part of the EU’s broader effort to pull public and private resources into the European Green Deal and digital transition, giving Austrian firms access to EU-backed risk sharing and better loan terms.
Over the past 26 years, EIF’s work with Austrian financial partners has helped unlock more than €13 billion in new business investment across the country.
