On 14 September 2026, the Croatian Government increased the maximum amount of the Micro Loan for Growth and Inclusion from EUR 25,000 to EUR 50,000. The decision took effect on the date of adoption and was published in the Official Gazette on 16 September. Applications received before it took effect will be processed under the previous terms.
The higher limit allows for more substantial investments, but the programme has a defined target group. It is intended for micro and small businesses that are young enterprises up to three years old, or businesses whose majority owners belong to vulnerable groups defined by the financial instrument. Applicants should therefore check the status of the business and its owners, linked enterprises and the remaining eligibility criteria.
The loan may finance tangible and intangible assets, with working capital capped at 30 per cent of the total amount. The programme also allows up to 30 per cent of the principal used to be written off when the prescribed conditions are met, particularly those concerning new employment. Property investment and refinancing of existing liabilities are excluded from eligible uses.
The higher limit is most useful to an applicant with a defined investment, a realistic repayment plan and documents proving eligibility for the target group. Before applying, businesses should align supplier quotations, the investment structure and any employment plan with HAMAG-BICRO's current instrument terms.