The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) was established in 1991 in response to major changes in the political and economic climate in Central and Eastern Europe. Inaugurated less than two years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Bank was created to support the development of market economies in the region following the widespread collapse of communist regimes. In accordance with its founding Agreement, the EBRD works only in countries committed to the principles of multiparty democracy, pluralism and market economies.

Based in London, the EBRD is an international institution with 62 members (60 counties, the European Community and the European Investment Bank). The EBRD finances projects in both the private and public sectors, providing direct funding for financial institutions, infrastructure and other key sectors. Its investment also help to develop skills, to improve the efficiency of markets and to strengthen the institutions that support these markets. The main forms for EBRD financing are loans, equity investment and guarantees.