EIF and BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions sign €200m InvestEU deal

The European Investment Fund (EIF), part of the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group, has signed a landmark agreement with BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions to provide a portfolio guarantee of up to €200 million, backed by the European Union’s InvestEU programme.

The agreement aims to enhance access to leasing finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and small mid-cap companies across France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, supporting their transition toward greener and more sustainable business models.

This milestone transaction represents the EIF’s largest ever multi-country guarantee specifically focused on energy transition leasing solutions. It will enable BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions to offer improved financing conditions to businesses investing in environmentally focused projects such as: sustainable mobility solutions, energy efficiency improvements, green and digital technologies, and renewable energy infrastructure.

By covering part of the credit risk, the EIF guarantee will allow BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions to scale up its lending to SMEs and small mid-caps, stimulating private investment in climate action and innovation.

Ambroise Fayolle, Vice-President of the EIB, commented on the deal:

“This guarantee agreement with BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions fulfils the core mission of both the European Investment Fund and the European Investment Bank Group: accelerating innovation and competitiveness for European SMEs while promoting sustainable economic development through tailored financial solutions.”

Marjut Falkstedt, CEO of the EIF, highlighted the partnership’s impact:

“By joining forces, the EIF and BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions will inject over €200 million in new financing to accelerate innovation and competitiveness among European SMEs across four European countries, and supporting companies in their transition to low-carbon models. This significant guarantee underscores the power of joint efforts in strengthening European economies.”

Neil Pein, CEO of BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions, noted the strategic importance of the initiative:

“We are proud to be part of this strategic partnership that will provide essential financing to SMEs and small mid-caps. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to empowering European businesses with the financial tools they need to grow, innovate, and contribute to a more sustainable economy.”

The agreement is the first InvestEU-backed guarantee collaboration between the EIF and BNP Paribas Leasing Solutions. It underscores the InvestEU programme’s role in mobilising private investment for EU policy priorities, particularly the green transition and support for Europe’s dynamic SME sector.