Region

Western Europe

IFC manages relations with 27 countries in the region and the European Union. These countries hold a significant portion of IFC's capital, and the region's companies, financial institutions, and investors are important partners for us in emerging markets.

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IFC assists Western European companies in expanding their operations and venturing into emerging markets by providing a range of financial products such as loans, equity financing, risk management products, and credit guarantees. With our financial resources and expertise, we support our clients in overcoming financial, operational, and political challenges associated with investing in emerging economies.

At a Glance

In fiscal year 2023, IFC made long-term commitments exceeding $4.3 billion with regional sponsors. These commitments supported projects in key areas such as finance accessibility, infrastructure, manufacturing, agribusiness and services, and disruptive technologies and funds.

IFC’s total long-term committed investment portfolio with Western European sponsors amounted to $19.5 billion as of June 2023, with 40% in the financial sector, followed by infrastructure (33%), manufacturing, agribusiness, and services (23%), and disruptive technologies and funds (4%).

  • $4.3 B
    long-term investments in FY23
  • $2.9 B
    mobilized from Western Europe lenders in FY23
  • 72%
    of investments had a climate component
  • 24%
    of investments were in the world’s poorest countries

Areas of Focus

In Western Europe, IFC focuses on developing new business with clients, managing relationships with European shareholders, and building strategic partnerships with regional stakeholders, including the European Union, international financial institutions, development finance institutions, international organizations, academia, civil society, and media on a wide range of development issues.

As a member of the World Bank Group, IFC does not invest in Western Europe but partners with regional companies, financial institutions, and investors to co-finance projects in emerging markets.

Disruptive Technologies

IFC supports early-stage ventures in developing countries that are creating new markets, transforming industries, and driving inclusive growth while realizing strong returns. In doing so, we support the creation of a tech-enabled venture asset class across emerging markets that fosters private sector growth.

Financial Institutions

IFC works through financial institutions to provide much-needed access to finance for millions of individuals and micro, small, and medium enterprises that we would never be able to reach directly. We build deeper, more sustainable relationships with clients and partners based in Western Europe, leading to a greater number and variety of projects in the financial sector. 

Infrastructure

IFC offers long-term financing and industry-leading expertise to develop infrastructure projects that provide essential services—including electricity, telecommunications, transportation, water, and sanitation—in partnership with the private sector.

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Resources

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