The European Investment Bank (EIB) has loaned €400mn to Commerzbank for on-lending to German SMEs.

The finance will be disbursed across industry sectors. An additional €200mn is available to Commerzbank for the funding of smaller projects in the German energy sector.

EIB’s vice-president Wilhelm Molteler says: “SMEs remain a key topic for the EIB because it is they who are driving the growth in Europe. Commerzbank is an ideal partner for Mittelstand [small and medium enterprises] business in Germany. Thanks to its expertise, it is not only able to identify suitable projects in a reliable manner, but it also ensures that the funds are transferred swiftly – a crucial aspect for the clients.”