Release date: 26 February 2024
Promoter – Financial Intermediary
GEFA BANK GMBHLocation
Description
The operation will enable Gefa Bank to support small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-caps in Germany and potentially in other EU Member States, with a Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability (green) window.
Additionality and Impact
Through this intermediated operation of EUR 200m, SMEs and Mid-Caps will benefit from improved financing conditions. At least 30% of the resulting investments are intended to contribute to the EIB Climate Action and Environmental Sustainability ("CAES", 'green') Policy objective, which will accelerate the green transition of the economy.
The operation builds on the EIB's successful track record in supporting SMEs and Mid-Caps through loans to German intermediaries. GEFA, a repeat client with a long-standing relationship with the EIB, will channel funds to SMEs and Mid-Caps across Germany, including transition regions. The financing will enable investments in productive assets, innovation, and energy-efficient equipment, thereby fostering competitiveness and sustainability. A portion of the portfolio will meet EIB CA&ES eligibility criteria, supporting climate-conscious projects and contributing to EU policy goals.
The EIB's involvement provides favourable funding terms, including longer tenors and competitive pricing, which GEFA will pass on to final beneficiaries. This financial advantage improves access to finance and reduces overall borrowing costs for SMEs and Mid-Caps. The operation is expected to stimulate competition among financial intermediaries, encouraging similar green financing structures in the market. By leveraging EIB resources, GEFA can diversify its funding base and scale up lending to climate-aligned projects, reinforcing the EIB's catalytic role in promoting sustainable investment.
Objectives
The aim is to improve access to finance to the final beneficiaries.
Sector(s)
- Credit lines - Credit lines
Proposed EIB finance (Approximate amount)
EUR 200 million
Total cost (Approximate amount)
not applicable
Environmental aspects
Final beneficiaries will be requested to comply with applicable national and EU legislation, as appropriate.
Procurement
Final beneficiaries will be requested to comply with applicable national and EU legislation, as appropriate.
Status
Signed - 16/12/2025