Brussels, 11/07/2011 (Agence Europe) - On 4 July, the European Investment Bank (EIB) granted a loan of €100 million to Banca March, with the aim of increasing funding to support SMEs in Spain. At least 70% of the funds provided by the EIB will go to pay for projects carrying out by this category of business and will also help to finance working capital in the event of operations requiring minimum funding of two years. The remainder of the money, up to 30%, can be earmarked for larger projects and local entities. Around 30% of the loan will go to support projects in the convergence regions. This new line of credit aims to add to what Banca March can offer businesses, in order to continue to accompany their development, improve their competitiveness and give them easier access to credit. (O.L./transl.fl)