A study visit was held in Pula on 15 and 16 October 2026 as part of the OECD project “Digital and Green SMEs: Accelerating the Twin Transition in the Western Balkans”, funded by the Government of the Republic of Croatia. The event was attended by Zdenko Lucić, State Secretary for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation. The two-day programme focused on encouraging investment in energy efficiency among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with an emphasis on sharing Croatia’s experience and presenting practical solutions that could be applied in Western Balkan economies.
The event brought together representatives of institutions and the business community from the region, Croatian ministries and expert institutions, as well as the OECD. The aim was to improve understanding of the financial and non-financial mechanisms that can help businesses prepare and implement energy efficiency investments, while supporting their green and digital transitions.
The first day featured a workshop on financing opportunities, support schemes and the obstacles SMEs face when investing in energy efficiency. Croatia’s experience in using available financial instruments was presented, alongside approaches to providing technical assistance, developing knowledge and skills, and fostering cooperation between institutions and businesses. Discussions highlighted the importance of combining financial support with sound project preparation and the expertise needed for implementation.
The second day was dedicated to site visits to Croatian companies whose investments and innovative solutions offer examples of good practice in the green and digital transition. Participants learned about practical approaches to deploying energy-efficient technologies and sustainable business solutions, and how these contribute to more efficient resource use and enhanced competitiveness.
The study visit provided an opportunity to link public policies with business experience and exchange knowledge on solutions that could be adapted to the needs of Western Balkan economies. By funding this project in cooperation with the OECD, the Republic of Croatia contributes to regional cooperation and the transfer of experience in sustainable economic development.
Press releases
