The EIF-NPI Equity platform is a collaborative initiative launched by the European Investment Fund (EIF) in 2016, which aims to promote knowledge sharing and best practices between the EIF and national promotional banks institutions (NPBIs)  of European countries . It focuses essentially on equity and fund of funds instruments.

This initiative has been established in the context of the Investment Plan for Europe (also called the Juncker Plan). This plan has tackled the investment gap faced by the EU. Some of its goals, among others, are to enhance access to funding for SMEs and midcaps, support the defragmentation of equity markets, and leverage national and private funding thanks to EU support.

Bpifrance took part to the 2019 General Forum of the Platform, gathering 50 people representing the EIF, the European Commission and NPBIs from all over Europe in Luxembourg, November 7, 2019, to meet its various partners and exchange with them as well as explore new topics that can be source of inspiration and thoughts.

The EIF and the varied activities of NPBIs were at the forefront of the subject.

For instance, the Danish member Vaekstfonden, presented the activity and the strategy of two of its funds. A presentation of the progress performed by the working group on non-financial indicators (environment, social and governance) was made.

In addition, the Israel Innovation Authority, which was a external guest, explained the principles underlying the innovation policy of Israel.

“What would become the platform in the years to come?” is the question that currently arises.

Many ideas to deepen the discussions and increase the scope of the platform are in perspective.