In an era of increasingly pronounced climate change and global disruptions in supply chains, the resilience of the economy becomes a strategic imperative. In this context, the Croatian Bank for Reconstruction and Development (HBOR) has positioned itself as an important strategic partner for entrepreneurs in transforming and adapting their businesses to new market conditions, as well as a key institution that promotes the green transition of the Croatian economy.
In recent years, HBOR has significantly expanded its portfolio of financial instruments aimed at sustainability – from favorable credit lines and combinations with grants to investments in venture capital funds focused on innovative projects. Each of these initiatives is designed to strongly encourage the green transition of the business sector, enhance competitiveness, and invest with long-term positive effects on the environment and society.
Financial Solutions for Sustainable Development – From Idea to Realization
Through existing programs, HBOR supports projects in energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, circular economy, modernization of production processes, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and circular economy. In 2024 alone, nearly 300 million euros have been approved for sustainability-oriented projects, and as part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NPOO), more than 130 projects have been financed, including investments in solar energy, energy renovation of buildings, electrification of production, and modernization of industry. It is important to highlight that all HBOR programs under the NPOO are fully aligned with the DNSH principle (do no significant harm), ESG criteria, and the obligation to report on environmental and social impact.
New programs such as loans for modernization of production allow entrepreneurs to combine loans with grants by enabling the write-off of part of the principal, up to 50% – provided that predefined conditions are met. A program titled ‘Loans for Energy Efficiency for Entrepreneurs’ is also in the pipeline, with a total of 250 million euros allocated, specifically aimed at companies investing in equipment renovation, introducing renewable energy sources, and reducing their carbon footprint.
– Long-term sustainability and resilience of the economy are no longer an option but a necessity. That is why at HBOR, we actively design and launch financial instruments and programs that promote the green transition, support innovations, and create competitive advantages for our entrepreneurs. Our role is to provide them not only with access to capital but also with the confidence that this capital will create value for their business and for the entire community and environment. In times of significant market changes, we want to be a source of stability, as well as an incentive for a leap towards a sustainable future – says the CEO of HBOR, Hrvoje Čuvalo.
