Investment Council Recommendations - Small and Medium-Sized Businesses in Focus on Sustainable Finance

The progress of the Investment Council recommendations for the period January-June 2025 shows important steps in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in Albania. The focus of session A is “New schemes, strategic partnerships and greater commitment of the banking sector to improve access to finance and innovation for MSMEs”.
In February 2025, a new financing scheme with a significant fund was introduced, dedicated to businesses in sectors such as agriculture and agritourism. The scheme offers loans with low interest rates and serves exclusively for investments, promoting the long-term development of MSMEs and strengthening innovation.
Another key step is the signing of a strategic agreement with international institutions for the development of green finance in the country. The agreement includes the development of a Green Taxonomy for the classification of sustainable activities, assistance in mobilizing funds for green projects and capacity building for climate risk management, according to European Union standards. But what has been achieved from these investments?
In parallel, digital innovation centers have been established to support the digitalization and modernization of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, creating bridges of cooperation between the private sector, academia and public institutions. Programs supported by the academic diaspora have brought international expertise and good practices for sustainable business development. However, the report highlights the lack of financial products dedicated to women entrepreneurs, an aspect that requires increased attention to ensure equal inclusion.
These initiatives demonstrate a continuous effort to create a more sustainable, innovative and accessible financial ecosystem, giving a new impetus to the development of small and medium-sized enterprises in Albania.
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