Our three main objectives in Romania are increasing access to credit, increasing market competition, and improving the regulatory environment.

Increased Access to Credit

CHF International/Romania provides credit through 19 branch offices reaching half of the country. The program works through strategic partnerships with over 50 nongovernmental organizations, member-based business associations and chambers of commerce. By providing micro and small businesses with greater access to affordable market rate sources of credit (up to $20,000 per client), the program promotes investment, sustained business growth, and employment. To date, we have made $20 million in program loans in Romania, maintaining a 99% repayment rate. 

Competitiveness Component

We work with local and national business associations to enhance their ability to deliver business services to their members. We also train qualified individual businesses and joint ventures to increase their ability to export and attract foreign investment in the tourism and garment sectors.

Improved Legal and Regulatory Environment

We promote reforms to the legal and regulatory environment that affect small businesses, working with private sector organizations in tandem with key government ministries and local governments. The Consortium conducts legal assessments, disseminates information, encourages greater public participation through consultation with the government, and supports private sector advocacy efforts on important public policy issues.

Partnerships

Funding for these activities is provided by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Oikocredit. The program is managed by CHF International/Romania with support from ShoreBank Advisory Services, Citizens Development Corps, Booz Allen Hamilton and the U.S. Peace Corps. The U.S. Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC), the Government of Romania, and the World Bank provide additional funding for credit programs.