EFSE and NLB Sarajevo strengthen their partnership through a EUR 5 million MREL-qualifying facility to support MSME financing in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar, 16 September 2026 – The European Fund for Southeast Europe (EFSE) is building on the long-term partnership with NLB Banka d.d., Sarajevo (NLB) by providing a EUR 5 million MREL-qualifying facility. The investment will strengthen the Bank’s regulatory capital position and funding base, enable continued balance sheet growth and support increased lending to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The facility will support NLB in expanding access to finance for local businesses, a key driver of economic development and job creation in the country. The investment is expected to enhance its capacity to respond to the financing needs of MSMEs and contribute to the resilience and growth of the private sector.

The financing partnership will be complemented by technical assistance aimed at advancing NLB's sustainability and ESG agenda. A joint initiative will support 20 women-led micro and small businesses in Bosnia and Herzegovina in improving their competitiveness through digital inclusion. At the same time, the programme will strengthen the Bank’s capacity to expand gender-responsive lending and further develop financial solutions tailored to women entrepreneurs.

"Our partnership with NLB Banka Sarajevo spans nearly 18 years and reflects a shared commitment to strengthening access to finance for MSMEs across Bosnia and Herzegovina. By combining targeted investment with targeted technical assistance, we are supporting the Bank’s long-term resilience and its capacity to deliver more inclusive financial services, including for women-led businesses." said Jasminka Berget, Portfolio Manager of EFSE.

 

Lidija Žigić, CEO of NLB Banka Sarajevo, added: The cooperation between NLB Banka Sarajevo and EFSE reflects our shared commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and helping MSMEs grow in our market. Beyond financing, this partnership promotes women’s entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and sustainable business practices, enabling businesses to become more resilient and competitive. Together, we are investing in people and companies that drive economic development and create lasting value for the local economy.

 

About EFSE

An impact investment fund established in 2005, the European Fund for Southeast Europe (EFSE) aims to foster economic development and prosperity in Southeast Europe and the European Eastern Neighborhood Region. EFSE was initiated by KfW Development Bank with the financial support of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Commission. As the first public-private partnership of its kind, EFSE draws its capital from donor agencies, international financial institutions, and private institutional investors. Finance in Motion Asset Management S.à r.l., serves as EFSE’s Portfolio Manager and Hauck & Aufhäuser Fund Services S.A., Luxembourg, acts as manager.  

For more information on the European Fund for Southeast Europe, please visit: www.efse.lu  

About Finance in Motion

Finance in Motion structures, manages, and advises almost €4 billion across 10 funds, all classified as SFDR Article 9. These private market funds drive impact for people and planet through regional financial intermediaries, direct investments, advisory and capacity building. Founded in Germany, with local expertise from Latin America to Eastern Europe, it has been investing in emerging markets for over 20 years.  

For more information, please visit: www.finance-in-motion-com    
 

About NLB  Banka Sarajevo

NLB Banka d.d., Sarajevo is a member of the NLB Group, one of the largest banking groups in the region. The Bank provides a wide range of financial products and services to individuals, entrepreneurs, micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, and corporate clients.

With a strong focus on customer needs and long-term partnerships, NLB Banka Sarajevo supports individuals and businesses in achieving their financial goals and developing their potential. The Bank continuously invests in digital solutions, sustainable finance and initiatives that contribute to the development of the local economy, with a particular focus on supporting entrepreneurs and MSMEs.

Through its network of branches and digital channels, NLB Banka Sarajevo provides accessible and modern banking solutions to clients across of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

 

Media Contacts: 

EFSE: Nusha Westhoff 
Director Marketing & Communications 
+49 69 271 035-789 
press@efse.lu

NLB Banka Sarajevo: Berina Belkić Tepić

Head of Brand and Communications
+387 62 320 965
berina.belkic@nlb.ba