Oschadbank benefits from EIB technical assistance to strengthen financial inclusion

Oschadbank is supported by large technical assistance programme to ensure deployment of European Investment Bank (EIB) impactful operations.

Running until 2030, the EIB funded technical assistance implemented by UMIR (Ukraine Moldova Inclusion Recovery) programme, will strengthen financial inclusion and support economic recovery in Ukraine and Moldova.

The technical assistance programme includes two main components. The first focuses on improving access to financial services for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). It also provides support for entrepreneurs among vulnerable groups, including internally displaced persons, veterans, youth and women, as well as businesses affected by war. Within this component, Oschadbank will receive:

• Expert support in developing new products for MSMEs;
• Guidance on aligning MSME business-line approaches and processes to EU best practices;
• Assistance in integration of sustainable development principles into the bank's operations;
• Access to expertise in implementing training programs for entrepreneurs and bank employees.

Under the second component, the technical assistance programme will support Oschadbank to implement the Ukraine District Heating project, funded by the EIB to finance restoration and strengthening of energy infrastructure across a large number of Ukrainian communities. Through this project, EIB will finance district heating systems, energy efficiency and renewable energy projects to ensure Ukrainians' access to reliable energy and heating. Beneficiaries include municipalities, communities, local enterprises and government authorities.

"For Oschadbank, participation in such a large-scale programme opens access to best practices and unique expertise from international specialists. This is a valuable opportunity for us – receive support in adapting our operations, products and services to modern client needs, while developing new support tools for those who work daily to strengthen Ukraine’s economy. The EIB loans give us more resources to foster local entrepreneurship and sustainable community development, while the technical assistance provide support in preparing for future challenges of European integration," said Sergii Naumov, Chairman of the Board.

“These investments will help ensure that schools, social housing, hospitals, are energy efficient, that heating and energy infrastructure continue to function for millions of Ukrainians despite the challenges of war. Together with Oschadbank and the UMIR partners, we are working to deliver concrete support where it is needed most,” added Matteo Rivellini, Head of Ukraine Investment Team at European Investment Bank. 

The UMIR programme is implemented by a consortium of companies including GOPA AFC GmbH (DE), GOPA Worldwide Consultants GmbH (DE), GOPA PACE (BE) and EY (Ukraine) with funding from the European Investment Bank in the framework of the EU for Ukraine Advisory Programme.