EIB and Mediocredito Centrale Unlock €400M to Boost Italian SMEs and Agribusiness

A new financing agreement between the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group and the Mediocredito Centrale (MCC) Group is set to mobilise more than €400 million in funding to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and mid-cap companies across Italy.

The initiative, involving both the EIB and the European Investment Fund (EIF), is expected to benefit around 650,000 businesses by improving access to finance at preferential rates, thereby strengthening investment and growth in the real economy.

Securitisation deal to unlock fresh lending

At the core of the agreement is a securitisation transaction based on performing residential mortgage loans originated by BdM Banca, a subsidiary of the MCC Group.

Under the deal:

• The EIB has purchased €150 million of the Senior A2 tranche

• The EIF has acquired an additional €50 million

This combined €200 million investment will enable the MCC Group to significantly expand its lending capacity. As part of the agreement, MCC has committed to generating new loans worth at least twice the amount of the funding received, effectively amplifying the impact of the transaction.

Driving investment in Italy's real economy

The financing will facilitate the creation of a new lending portfolio across MCC Group subsidiaries, helping to unlock over €400 million in investments. These funds are intended to stimulate economic activity, particularly in key sectors and regions.

A major focus of the initiative is supporting investment in Italy's newly established Special Economic Zone (SEZ), introduced by the government in 2025 to drive regional development and attract business activity.

More than 60% of the EIB-backed funding will be directed toward productive activities in cohesion regions and within the SEZ, reinforcing efforts to reduce regional disparities and promote inclusive growth.

Support for agribusiness and sustainability

In addition to regional development, the agreement places strong emphasis on the agricultural sector. Around 30% of the funds will be allocated to agribusinesses nationwide, supporting projects aimed at sustainability, climate adaptation and resilience.

This targeted approach reflects the strategic importance of Italy's agrifood sector, not only for employment but also for environmental sustainability and rural development.

Strengthening partnerships for growth

EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti said the agreement would play a crucial role in boosting economic development and supporting businesses in key regions.

"This operation strengthens investments by SMEs and mid-caps, supports the real economy, and channels dedicated funding to Italy's agrifood sector, which is vital for employment, sustainability and territorial resilience," she said.

Mediocredito Centrale CEO Francesco Minotti highlighted the broader impact of the partnership, noting that it enhances the Group's ability to support innovative and growth-oriented businesses.

"Through our collaboration with the EIB Group, we can expand our financing capacity and better support the real economy, particularly in cohesion regions and the single special economic zone," Minotti said.

Catalysing inclusive and sustainable growth

The agreement underscores the role of strategic financial partnerships in driving economic recovery, fostering innovation and supporting sustainable development. By targeting SMEs, regional development zones and climate-focused agriculture, the initiative aims to deliver long-term benefits for Italy's economy.