Istočna Ilidža confirms its dedication to transparency, efficiency and investor-friendliness by obtaining its first BFC SEE Certificate

Joining the network of local governments in Southeast Europe dedicated to building transparent, efficient, and investor-friendly environments, the Municipality of Istočna Ilidža has officially obtained the BFC SEE Certificate for the first time.

Strategically located just 1 km from Sarajevo International Airport and in close proximity to the Olympic mountains of Bjelašnica, Igman, Trebević, and Jahorina, Istočna Ilidža is uniquely positioned as an attractive hub for business and tourism alike. With access to major transport routes such as Corridor Vc, the M5 and M18 highways, and European corridors E761 and E762, the municipality enjoys excellent connectivity to Serbia, Montenegro, Croatia, and the wider European market.

Investors benefit from a favorable business climate, competitive workforce, low operational costs, and efficient local governance. The municipality offers tailored support to entrepreneurs, including incentives for diaspora investments, subsidies for loans, and programs that encourage businesses from marginalized groups and the manufacturing sector.

Istočna Ilidža was able to obtain this international certificate based on the dedication of the mayor, Mr. Marinko Božović and his team, who said: “Our municipality has a rich past and a bright future, and the dedication of all Ilidža residents and their contribution to development are key to our progress. Istočna Ilidža has great potential, as a municipality located in the immediate vicinity of Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and surrounded by the Olympic beauties of Jahorina, Igman, and Bjelasnica. We are committed to the development of business zones and bringing large companies to Istočna  Ilidža, and we have succeeded in doing so. We continue on, with the desire to make Istočna Ilidža one of the most desirable places to live in the Republika Srpska. We strive, as a local community, to be a service to citizens that will, within the level of its competence, also provide support in the areas of education, healthcare, and social security. We have created one of the best Regulations on Pro-Birth Policy and thus proved that the residents of Istočna Ilidža, from the earliest, kindergarten age to adulthood and starting a family, can count on the Municipal Administration of Istocna Ilidža. As mayor, I have worked and I commit to working in the interests of all residents of Istocna Ilidža, listening to their needs and striving to create better conditions for all of us. Republika Srpska is a place where we meet, share ideas and build a future together!”

A significant advantage of this municipality is the availability of three fully equipped business zones — “Radulovac,” “Grlica,” and “Od mosta do mosta” — covering 85 hectares of ready-to-build land. These zones provide complete infrastructure and attractive incentives such as exemptions from rental and development fees, depending on business type and location.

With its first BFC SEE Certificate, Istočna Ilidža has demonstrated its dedication to creating a modern, supportive, and competitive environment for businesses and investors, while positioning itself as a rising destination for sustainable economic growth in the South-East Europe region.

Find out more about what Istočna Ilidža has to offer here.