GIF 1 - GIF 2 Investment Policy


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GIF 1 and GIF 2 Windows

The Product

GIF1 Window and GIF2 Window are committed to specialised funds facilitating finance for eligible small businesses (SMEs), which are in their early stages, aiming to stimulate the growth and expansion of innovative SMEs with a high growth potential. EIF does not finance SMEs directly. 

Main Product Features

  • Nature: Equity or quasi-equity investments in Intermediaries.
  • Investor: EIF operates as investor on behalf of the EC.
  • Signing period: Fund agreements can be signed until 31 December 2013.
  • Duration: Investments typically consist of 5 to 12-year positions in Intermediaries.
  • Amount: Commitment to a single Intermediary shall require a critical mass and shall not exceed EUR 30m.

Given the public nature of the EU GIF 1 and GIF 2 Windows, special EU requirements apply.

Eco-Innovation and Clean Technology

The GIF instrument is also aimed at supporting clean technology or eco-Innovation SMEs. Under GIF, higher investment rates are allowed in the case of funds focused on eco-innovation.