The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) was founded in 1991 to create a new post-Cold War era in central and eastern Europe, furthering progress towards ‘market-oriented economies and the promotion of private and entrepreneurial initiative’.. The EBRD is owned by 66 countries from five continents, as well as the European Union and the European Investment Bank. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) helps businesses flourish.

One of the specific services the EBRD provides is advice to small and medium-sized businesses. A specialist team gives business advice to small and medium-sized enterprises in over 30 countries across southern and eastern Europe, North Africa and Central Asia. The full list is here: http://www.ebrd.com/where-we-are.html. For that purpose, EBRD draws on the know-how of a network of international advisers and local consultants to help transform a wide range of businesses, looking at areas including strategy, marketing, operations, quality management, energy efficiency, financial management and beyond.

Recently, EBRD and the European Union (EU) have launched a new programme committed to helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) obtain advice for sustainable growth. This programme is an excellent opportunity for SME’s active in the field of electric bicycles or other light, electric vehicles.

Businesses with a turnover of less than €50 million and fewer than 250 employees are eligible under the programme, provided that they are majority locally owned. Working closely with the EBRD, a company’s first step under the programme is to assess its needs and growth opportunities. The EBRD then connects the firm with a specialised consultant or international adviser who can offer the relevant expertise. The programme also provides training opportunities for businesses and consultants, equipping them with the skills to take their companies further.

The programme will support at least 240 SMEs in Greece, Bulgaria and Romania with tailored business advice over the next two years. The services provided will enable enterprises to access local and international consultancy services to improve their competitiveness and take their businesses to the next level. Nevertheless, this service is also available for SME’s in all other EBRD countries.

Download the Advice for Small Businesses client leaflet