Region

Central and Eastern Europe

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.

IFC in Ukraine

As part of the broader World Bank Group’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, IFC has launched a $2 billion package to support the Ukrainian private sector. Learn more

At a Glance

IFC investments in FY22 totaled nearly $1.1 billion in Europe, including $185 million mobilized from other investors. Our clients cared for 3.1 million patients and reached 3.8 million people with phone connections.

Impact of IFC clients in 2021

87 K

Jobs created via direct investments
73 K

Jobs created by fund investee companies
488 M

In payments to governments as results of IFC direct investments
919 M

In payments to governments by Fund Investee companies

Areas of Focus

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. Our efforts have been focused on helping the private sector mitigate the economic fallout and bringing about a green, resilient, and inclusive recovery from the pandemic.

energy-Wind Turbines in Jhimpir, Thatta.

Energy Transformation and Climate Change

IFC has been intensifying its work to provide private sector solutions to tackle climate change, using its capital, international expertise, and local knowledge to attract commercial investments and maximize impact.

Competitiveness and Productivity

Competitiveness is key for companies looking to grow and expand into new markets. In Central and Eastern Europe, IFC helps firms increase the efficiency of their operations and aids producers in developing sustainable local supply chains, including those that feature farmers and small businesses.

Inclusion: Access to Finance and Services

Increasing access to finance and services will help countries in the region lower poverty, decrease inequality, and empower young entrepreneurs, including women.

Digital Transformation & Connectivity

IFC invests in the telecommunications, media, and technology sector in emerging markets, building critical infrastructure, financing companies, and helping close the digital divide.