Greece launches Agricultural Entrepreneurship Fund with €250 million in loans

The Greek Ministry of Rural Development and Food and the Hellenic Development Bank (HDB) have launched the Agricultural Entrepreneurship Fund to support the agrifood sector. Funded by €160 million from the 2023-2027 CAP Strategic Plan, the fund aims to mobilize approximately €365 million in total loans through the banking system.

The first of three financial tools, the Agrifood Sector Guarantee Fund, is being activated with €80 million in public resources to mobilize €250 million in loans. This tool offers 70% guarantees on loans, interest rate subsidies of up to 4% for up to four years, and advisory support. Investment loans range from €25,000 to €3.5 million (2-15 year terms), while working capital loans range from €25,000 to €500,000 (2-5 year terms).

Other planned tools include a Small Agricultural Entrepreneurship Loans II fund with a €95 million portfolio, offering loans between €10,000 and €50,000. The fund targets the entire agrifood chain, from primary producers to processors, with a specific emphasis on attracting new farmers. The eligibility period for the program extends until September 30, 2029.