HAMAG-BICRO loans see surge among Croatian craftsmen and farmers

Small businesses and craftsmen in Croatia are increasingly relying on HAMAG-BICRO loans for financing. According to an analysis by the Croatian Chamber of Crafts, 218 loans were approved in the first half of this year alone, surpassing the total number of loans granted in all of 2024 and 2025. The total value of approved funds has also seen a significant increase compared to previous years.

In response to this trend, the government recently increased the maximum amount for Micro Loans for Growth and Inclusion from 25,000 to 50,000 euros. Additionally, new rules regarding startup entrepreneur definitions have been implemented to expand the pool of eligible applicants.

Furthermore, HAMAG-BICRO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, is launching a new financial instrument specifically for the agricultural sector. These loans, ranging from 1,000 to 150,000 euros, feature a low interest rate of 0.10 percent and offer the possibility of principal write-offs of up to 45 percent, or up to 50 percent for young farmers. The program targets primary agricultural production in sensitive sectors such as dairy, meat, sheep, goat, pig, beekeeping, fruit, and vegetable farming.