EIB Defence Financing: The New One-Stop Shop for Dual-Use SMEs
Europe’s financial landscape has shifted dramatically: the European Investment Bank (EIB) is no longer closed to the defence sector. Since 2022, the bank has unlocked billions in capital through the Strategic European Security Initiative (SESI), removing historic barriers for dual-use technologies. With the recent launch of a dedicated Security & Defence Office and the removal of the 50% civilian-revenue cap, the door is now open for SMEs and mid-caps to access low-interest loans, venture debt, and equity guarantees. This represents a massive opportunity for companies innovating in cybersecurity, drones, space, and critical infrastructure. However, navigating the EIB’s eligibility criteria and new “one-stop shop” requires precise intelligence. At Defence Finance Monitor, we bridge the gap between complex banking policy and your strategic growth. Our deep-dive analysis details exactly which projects qualify, how to structure your capital stack, and where to find the new €3 billion in intermediated lending.