Why It Matters
The global economy is shifting towards adopting sustainable business practices. Companies that embrace green growth will be better positioned to remain competitive, attract investment, and meet growing regulatory demands. The Alliance aims to support companies in the Western Balkans region to turn the challenge of decarbonization into a growth opportunity.
Who We Support
Our work focuses on manufacturing, agribusiness, and service sectors, with a particular emphasis on hard-to-abate industries. We partner with mid- and large-sized companies in six Western Balkan countries:
- Albania
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Kosovo
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Serbia
How We Work
We support companies with:
- Access to technical knowledge on carbon reduction and circular economy principles.
- Direct connections to investors, funding opportunities, and green finance.
- Networking with industry leaders and access to innovative technologies.
- Tailored advisory services for sustainable finance, investment planning, and decarbonization.
Our Partners
The Western Balkans Green Growth Alliance is funded by the Austrian and Hungarian Ministries of Finance and facilitated by Guidehouse and the Energy Community Secretariat (ECS). Together, we create a supportive environment for businesses to thrive while reducing their environmental impact.
To learn more about the alliance and get involved, please contact us at greengrowthalliance@ifc.org
Focus Areas
Industrial Decarbonization
Industries in the Western Balkans are heavily reliant on energy-intensive processes, which face increasing regulatory pressure under EU climate policies. Reducing carbon emissions is essential for staying competitive and accessing new markets.
How the Alliance can Support You:
- GHG Accounting: Guidance on Scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions tracking.
- Climate Target Setting: Support in setting achievable, science-based climate targets.
- Transition Planning: Roadmapping the steps for companies to reach net-zero.
- Corporate Disclosures: Guidance on EU disclosure rules for emissions reporting.
- Carbon Pricing Readiness: Preparing companies for CBAM and EU ETS compliance.
Finance and Investment
Securing funding is often the biggest challenge for companies aiming to decarbonize, as the transition typically requires significant investments. The Western Balkans Green Growth Alliance connects companies with tailored financial support from IFC and guides them through the funding process.
How the Alliance can Support You:
- Access to IFC Financial Services, including:
- Corporate Lending & Project Finance
- Green & Sustainability-Linked Bonds
- Trade Finance & Supply Chain Finance
- Equity, Quasi-Equity & Mezzanine Finance
- Blended Finance for early-stage, high-impact projects
- Making Decarbonization Projects Bankable: We help companies prepare their projects to attract green investment from banks and international financiers.
Sustainable Supply Chains
Global supply chains are transforming under new sustainability criteria. Companies that build more resilient, circular supply chains can reduce costs, attract new business partners, and gain a competitive edge.
How We Support You:
- Supply Chain Mapping: Identifying suppliers with high emissions and sourcing greener alternatives.
- Circular Economy Principles: Introducing solutions for waste reduction, resource efficiency, and circular business models.
- Sustainable Sourcing: Shifting supply contracts to prioritize sustainable and renewable materials.
Knowledge Building and Capacity Development
Green growth is a journey that requires new knowledge and skills. Companies need to understand EU regulations, decarbonization techniques, and financial best practices to stay ahead.
How We Support You:
- Training Programs: Hands-on training sessions for companies on green growth topics.
- Learning Resources: Access to industry guides, case studies, and best practices.
- Networking with Industry Leaders: Opportunities to learn from companies that are pioneering the green tranisiton.