Institut Catala de Finances

What is Institut Catala de Finances ?

Institut Catala de Finances (ICF) is a public financial institution established under the Government of Catalonia in 1985, headquartered in Barcelona, Spain. Their primary mission is to promote and facilitate businesses' access to financial resources within Catalonia, focusing predominantly on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). ICF operates as a complementary body to the private financial sector, adhering to principles of financial stability, credit risk management and control, and regulatory as well as budgetary autonomy of regulators.

The board of governors, being the institution's highest governing body, sets up committees authorized to approve and modify credit and investment operations that are specifically delegated to them. The executive committee, under its established powers, has the authority to approve and modify loans, acting on delegations from the board of governors.

ICF's website indicates that they provide various financial products and services, including loans, guarantees, and venture capital to support the business ecosystem. Celebrating 40 years in operation, ICF has funded over 37,000 companies and entities through loans, guarantees, and venture capital, surpassing a financial facilitation volume of more than 16 billion euros.

Additionally, ICF emphasizes contributions to society through participation in European programs and building social housing, reflecting a commitment to socio-economic development and sustainability. For instance, in 2024, ICF financed the creation of 1,901 social housing units with an investment of 195 million euros.

In partnership with the European Investment Fund, ICF mobilized 57 million euros for sustainable projects, underlining their support for sustainability and environmental initiatives.

ICF also champions cultural projects, as evidenced by their funding of Castelao Pictures to boost audiovisual production with an international focus. Their financial support extends to multiple sectors, underscoring their role in enhancing Catalonia's economic infrastructure.