The European Fund for Southeast Europe (EFSE) stands as a pillar of opportunity for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the heart of Southeast Europe and the EU Eastern Neighborhood Region, . Through its comprehensive approach to sustainable financing and support, EFSE advised by Finance in Motion has transformed MSMEs and households, driving long-term economic development in the local communities. As a result, it has been paving a road towards a more inclusive society.
Their mission is to equip small business owners and entrepreneurs with adequate financing, enabling them to overcome any real obstacles. In truth, it's about empowering individuals and communities to reach their full potential. Through tailored finance to MSMEs and households, using local partners, they set the foundations for sustainable growth and prosperity.
"For us, as the organisers of the ESG Adria Summit, having EFSE as our silver sponsor is really important for the success and impact of our event. EFSE has a proven track record in boosting economic development and empowering communities through responsible financing which perfectly aligns with the goal we have for ESG Adria Summit - driving sustainable growth and social change in the region", said Biljana Braithwaite, CEO of Sustineri Partners, organiser of the Summit.
With more than 1.2 million of subloans assigned to the MSMEs and households in Southeast Europe and 22% microfinance institutions as active partner institutions, EFSE is working on reaching out to those often marginalised in traditional systems. Moreover, 74% share of total rural and MSME subloans disbursed below 20,000 EUR, are testimony to EFSE making tangible strides towards eradicating poverty and promoting economic inclusion. From supporting small-scale farmers to empowering women entrepreneurs, EFSE's impact is bridging the gap between aspiration and achievement.
With over 75 partner lending institutions and 86,600 active borrowers, the Fund is building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialisation, and fostering innovation. But their support and help doesn't end with financial assistance. It's more about building an ecosystem for the development of entrepreneurship. Through the EFSE Development Facility, they provide non-financial support as well, by facilitating knowledge exchange and capacity building. In fact, 49,799 people have benefited from technical assistance from the Fund.
Moreover, EFSE remains strong in its commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. By integrating sustainability considerations into the investment decision-making process and engaging with stakeholders, they ensure that the impact their investments make is not only enduring but also responsible.
“Through our partnership with the ESG Adria Summit, EFSE seeks to amplify the discourse surrounding sustainable investment, promote knowledge exchange, and inspire actionable solutions to pressing societal and environmental challenges. We remain consistent in our mission to strengthen local financial markets and cultivate a right ecosystem for entrepreneurship across Southeast Europe, and that includes a strong focus on the Western Balkans region ”, said Mejra Juzbasic Bajgoric; Regional Director at Finance in Motion (Fund Advisor of EFSE)
