The World Bank Group aims to eradicate extreme poverty and increase shared prosperity through economic growth, inclusion, and sustainable development. In Central and Eastern Europe, IFC furthers these objectives, with a strong focus on high-impact projects that can help address the most pressing needs of the region. We focus on boosting the green economy, increasing access to finance and promoting inclusion, and improving competitiveness and connectivity to help the region’s economies grow sustainably and inclusively, protecting and creating jobs. Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, we have focused our efforts on helping the private sector mitigate the economic fallout and bringing about a green, resilient, and inclusive recovery from the pandemic. 

Focus Areas

  • Energy Transformation and Climate Change

    IFC is supporting a sustainable recovery from COVID-19 and helping the region rebuild better. We are working with countries to implement a green recovery that can stimulate economies and create jobs, while accelerating the transition to a more sustainable future.

    Learn more

  • Competitiveness and Productivity

    IFC works with the private sector to encourage entrepreneurship and build sustainable businesses, advising them on a wide range of issues, including environmental, social, and governance standards, energy and efficiency, regional integration and supply chains.

    Learn more

  • Inclusion: Access to Finance and Services

    IFC is promoting the inclusion of underserved segments of society by increasing access to finance and improving financial market infrastructure. We also promote the private sector’s role in meeting the soaring demand for affordable health care and housing for citizens of all income levels, including rural residents.

    Learn more

  • Digital Transformation and Connectivity

    The COVID-19 crisis has underscored the importance of digital connectivity to achieve inclusive growth, economic stability, and improved quality of life for all.

    Learn more