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The Guarantee for SME Loans (BMKB) will have a faster expansion scheme because of the Coronavirus issues. The easing measure will increase the size of the BMKB pledge loan from 50% to 75%. This makes it more manageable for banks to grant credit. Moreover, companies have an opportunity to borrow more money earlier. Besides, the scheme will be further expanded compared to a previous announcement; it will additionally apply to Bridge loans and Overdrafts with terms of up to two years.

The State Secretary Keijzer explained: “The BMKB can be used by companies for a bridge loan or overdraft (the amount that they are allowed to overdraft). The expansion is essential for the liquidity of smaller entrepreneurs who miss out on income or production due to the Сoronavirus. The suppliers, travel agencies, but also companies that can no longer obtain raw materials from abroad”.

The government estimates that with this first step, € 300 million in additional financing will immediately be made available to SMEs that are affected by the Coronavirus. The extension will take effect from Monday, March 16, 2020, and will be a part of a package of measures already announced last week by the government to deal with the economic consequences of the Coronavirus. Entrepreneurs affected by the corona issue can also apply for working time reduction and postponement of payment/reduction of provisional assessment of taxes. Self-employed people can appeal to the Self-employed Assistance Decree (BBZ).