The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a first €50 million tranche of a €100 million financing agreement with CrediaBank to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-cap companies in Greece’s security and defense ecosystem, according to a press release issued by the EIB. CrediaBank becomes the first non-systemic bank in Europe and the second bank in Greece to join the EIB’s dedicated Security & Defence programme. Greece is now the first country with multiple financial intermediaries under this dedicated lending envelope. Including foreseen leverage, the financing is expected to mobilize up to €200 million for targeted final beneficiaries. The partnership also extends to leasing finance and reinforces support for youth employment.
Small and medium-sized businesses in the security and defense ecosystem often face structural barriers to accessing finance. Sector-specific characteristics, dual-use activities, and the limited availability of dedicated financial products can constrain investment despite growing demand. The EIB financing aims to improve financing conditions for eligible companies by supporting long-term investment and working capital needs. This operation is also expected to strengthen market confidence and encourage additional investment in the sector. Strengthening Europe’s security and defense industrial base remains a strategic priority for the EIB.
The funding will be channeled through CrediaBank to SMEs and mid-cap companies across Greece, with particular focus on businesses active in or investing in the security and defense sector. The operation is expected to improve access to long-term finance for productive investment and working capital. It will help businesses strengthen competitiveness, innovation capacity, and resilience. Through its Pan-European Security & Defence Lending Envelope, the EIB has already carried out similar operations in Germany, France, and Spain. Part of the financing may also support companies that promote youth employment under the EIB’s Jobs for Youth initiative.
The agreement further marks the beginning of cooperation between the EIB and CrediaBank in leasing finance, giving businesses wider access to financing solutions for equipment and productive investments.
EIB Vice-President Yannis Tsakiris said: “Greece is playing an increasingly important role in strengthening Europe’s security and defence industrial ecosystem. Our partnership with CrediaBank expands the reach of the EIB’s dedicated financing programme, helping innovative Greek businesses invest, grow and contribute to Europe’s resilience and strategic autonomy.”
CrediaBank’s CEO Eleni Vrettou described the agreement as a landmark reflecting the bank’s focus on strengthening the resilience and long-term competitiveness of the Greek economy. She emphasized channeling capital where it creates lasting value for businesses, the economy, and society.
CrediaBank, formed through the merger of Attica Bank and the former Pancreta Bank, is the fifth-largest bank in Greece by assets. It operates 65 branches and 5 business centers throughout Greece, serving approximately 350,000 individuals and businesses. The bank offers deposit, investment, and insurance products, mutual funds, loans, and securities trading services. This agreement expands the EIB’s growing network of European financial institutions implementing the Security & Defence programme. The initiative reinforces Greece’s contribution to Europe’s strategic autonomy and industrial resilience.