Page 2 - EIF_CIP case studies

Sustaining growth and creating jobs are among the primary objectives of the European Union. EU policies pay particular attention to small and medium sized-enterprises (SMEs) since these companies are the backbone of the European economy and the engine of growth and employment.

The “Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme” (CIP, 2007–2013) is a key instrument to support SMEs. It is managed by the European Investment Fund on behalf of the European Commission and has EUR 1.1 billion specifcally to facilitate SME access to fnance. By working in partnership with public and private intermediaries, we manage to mobilise a signifcant multiple of this budgetary allocation and reach out to SMEs in up to 35 countries. The SMEs then get access to loans and equity on better conditions, which helps them start, expand and develop their businesses.

This brochure gives examples of businesses which have benefted from guarantees and equity participations under the CIP programme. They are in various lines of business, have different locations, sizes and fnancing needs. But what they had in common was the need for assistance in obtaining fnance to grow and create jobs, a need we could respond to.

Antonio Tajani

Vice President of the European Commission responsible for Industry and Entrepreneurship

Olli Rehn

Vice President of the European Commission responsible for Economic and Monetary Affairs

Richard Pelly

Chief Executive European Investment Fund

Foreword