European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI)

The European Fund for Strategic Investments (EFSI) is a European Union-founded fund that has the goal of accelerating investments as a part of the European investment programme.

The EFSI aims to initiate investments with other financiers and investors in total of EUR 315 billion by 2020 with an initial sum of EUR 21 billion.

The EFSI operates in conjunction with the European Investment Bank. The projects can have a risk level higher than those normally receiving funding from the European Investment Bank. Investments can be targeted at the energy sector, the environment and resource efficiency, traffic, information and communication technology, human capital, culture and health as well as research, development and innovation activities.

Nearly all organisations are eligible to apply for funding, from large industrial companies to SMEs and actors in the public sector. The aim is to direct the majority of funding towards infrastructural and industrial investments, with around a quarter going to SMEs and mid-cap companies.

Projects must be economically viable

The EFSI does not offer gratuitous support, nor does it act as sole funder for projects. The projects must be economically viable. Funding may be equity or loan-based. As a general rule, SME funding is funnelled through intermediary banks or funds. Larger companies and project can apply for funding directly from the European Investment Bank.

The EFSI investment advisory hub provides additional information on its website and telephone. Additionally, the European Investment Bank and the European Investment Fund’s websites contain useful information as well as contact information.

The EFSI investment advisory hub operates under the guidance of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment.

Further information: Elina Rainio
elina.rainio(at)tem.fi