REDI Economic Development and PRIMA FINANȚARE Announce Partnership to Support Roma Entrepreneurs in the Republic of Moldova
REDI Economic Development SA and PRIMA FINANȚARE have signed a strategic partnership aimed at facilitating access to financing for Roma entrepreneurs and local businesses that employ Roma individuals, particularly in rural communities across the Republic of Moldova.
Through this partnership, businesses led by Roma entrepreneurs or companies offering employment to Roma individuals will gain access to tailored financial products and advisory services to support sustainable business development.
According to the 2021 report “Roma in 10 European Countries” by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA):
- Only 41% of Roma aged 20–64 in Romania were employed or engaged in paid activity, compared to the national average of 71%.
- Employment among Roma women was significantly lower: just 23% were employed, compared to 56% of Roma men.
- Over half of Roma youth (59%) aged 16–24 were neither working nor in education or training, compared to the national average of 15%.
- One in four Roma reported experiencing discrimination when seeking employment, double the rate reported in 2016.
Studies on financial inclusion across Europe show that Roma entrepreneurs face similar challenges in accessing financing and business development support. Organizations like REDI are working to address these barriers and support these communities.
About the Partnership
The collaboration between PRIMA FINANȚARE and REDI aims to:
- Provide accessible loans to Roma entrepreneurs and small agricultural producers
- Offer financial counseling, mentoring, and training for sustainable business growth
- Promote social inclusion and reduce disparities in access to finance
- Stimulate economic development and job creation in Roma communities
PRIMA FINANȚARE views the partnership with REDI as an opportunity to support entrepreneurs from Roma communities and contribute to building a more inclusive business environment. REDI emphasizes that the program will facilitate access to financing and support business development in underserved communities.
Financing Terms
Under the program, Roma entrepreneurs and small businesses employing Roma individuals can access loans of up to 500,000 MDL, with no collateral required, repayment periods of up to 5 years, and flexible payment options—including equal, seasonal, or customized installments. Funds may be used for investments, working capital, or mixed projects.
PRIMA FINANȚARE will work with local Roma community representatives to streamline the application process and ensure long-term impact.
About REDI Economic Development SA
Founded in 2019 in Luxembourg, REDI Economic Development SA is the first investment vehicle focused exclusively on Roma entrepreneurs. It has an investment capacity of €5 million for loans and risk-sharing with financial intermediaries. REDI supports Roma entrepreneurs and businesses active in Roma communities in Romania, Moldova, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Bulgaria.
About PRIMA FINANȚARE
PRIMA FINANȚARE is a non-bank lending organization with over 15 years of experience in the Republic of Moldova and 12 branches nationwide. It serves small entrepreneurs and rural populations who lack access to financial services—especially women, single parents, and families with members working abroad. The organization supports farmers, small traders, livestock breeders, and flower growers by providing tools to grow their businesses and strengthen their communities.