Presentation of the new EU and EBRD programme of support to SMEs to be held

This two-year programme is implemented by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) through their Small Business Support (SBS) Programme. It builds on the previous EBRD activities with aim to increase the competitiveness of SMEs in BiH, at domestic, regional, and international markets.

The total value of the programme is €2,656 million, of which the EU is funding €2 million from IPA 2013.

The programme will foster development of SMEs through the transfer of best EU practice in implementation of the Small Business Act for Europe (SBA), the guiding strategy for SME development in the European Union.

The Conference will be opened with welcome remarks by the Head of the EU Delegation to BiH and EU Special Representative, Ambassador Lars-Gunnar Wigemark, and  BiH Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations, Mirko Šarović, followed by presentation of the programme by           the Head of the EBRD Office in Sarajevo, Ian Brown.

Media statements are planned prior to the start of the Conference at 10:45hrs. Media are  invited to take statements and cover welcome remarks and the presentation. Interested media are also welcome to attend the rest of the Conference.

ST