- €30 million facility is first loan under WB GOLD framework in North Macedonia
- Innovative green finance initiative introduces outcome-based incentives to stimulate green lending
- Programme will help SMEs with sustainable investments and boost competitiveness
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is lending up to €30 million to NLB Skopje under the Western Balkans Green Outcomes‑Linked Debt Financing Framework (WB GOLD) – the first loan under that framework in North Macedonia.
This facility will mainly support solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helping them to grow their businesses while fostering investment in environmentally sustainable assets.
WB GOLD is an innovative green finance initiative that uses outcome-based incentives to encourage the financial sector to increase green lending to SMEs and mid-cap companies. It is designed to help improve standards for green lending practices while supporting the general financing needs of SMEs.
The framework is fully aligned with the EBRD’s two objectives in the Western Balkans: (i) supporting economic growth through private-sector development; and (ii) accelerating the transition to greener, more resilient economies. By empowering local businesses to invest in sustainable technologies – from energy-efficient machinery to renewable energy systems – WB GOLD aims to create direct environmental benefits while boosting competitiveness.
The loan agreement was signed by the EBRD’s Head of North Macedonia, Fatih Türkmenoğlu, and NLB Skopje’s CEO, Toni Stojanovski.
Mr Türkmenoğlu said: “We are pleased to be partnering with NLB Skopje to channel this innovative green financing into the heart of North Macedonia’s SME and mid-cap sector. This project demonstrates how the WB GOLD framework effectively converts financial support into tangible environmental benefits and sustainable economic growth.”
Mr Stojanovski said: “Green financing is not only an opportunity, but also a responsibility. Every business has the potential to be a catalyst for positive change. By supporting businesses in their pursuit of sustainable innovation, together with our partner EBRD, we are driving the transition towards cleaner technologies, energy efficiency and responsible resource management.”
The EBRD is a major institutional investor in North Macedonia, having invested over €3 billion in more than 200 projects across the country.