The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) alongside the European Union has launched a consultancy tender aimed at enhancing corporate governance and operational management at Monteput, the state-owned entity responsible for Montenegro’s motorway and major road infrastructure. This initiative is backed by a total funding of €500,000, sourced from EBRD-administered donor funds and EU contributions.
This project addresses managerial challenges that have arisen as Monteput’s responsibilities have expanded, particularly with the development of the Bar–Boljare motorway and other strategic road assets. As Monteput transitions from a project-specific entity to a long-term infrastructure operator, the EBRD and EU are focused on aligning its governance standards with international best practices.
The selected consultants will collaborate closely with Monteput’s management to enhance corporate governance frameworks, delineate roles between ownership and executive functions, and fortify internal controls. A key aspect of this engagement will involve improving financial management, procurement processes, and risk management systems to boost transparency and decision-making efficiency.
In addition to governance reforms, the project aims to enhance operational efficiency and institutional resilience. This includes evaluating current organizational structures, staffing models, and reporting lines while implementing performance management tools suited for managing long-term infrastructure assets that require significant capital investment and adhere to strict public accountability standards. The consultants are expected to deliver actionable solutions rather than theoretical recommendations.
From the EBRD and EU’s perspective, this initiative aligns with broader efforts to strengthen state-owned enterprises in Montenegro in anticipation of increased infrastructure investments and deeper integration into EU regulatory frameworks. Enhanced governance at Monteput is considered essential for securing future funding from multilateral development banks, commercial lenders, or potential capital-market instruments associated with infrastructure projects.
The €500,000 technical assistance package also highlights the growing concern among lenders regarding governance risks in publicly owned infrastructure firms. As Montenegro continues to depend on external financing for major transport initiatives, the capability of organizations like Monteput to demonstrate sound governance practices and professional management is becoming increasingly critical for obtaining favorable funding conditions.
The consultancy tender is open to international firms with demonstrated expertise in corporate governance reform, infrastructure asset management, and public-sector institutional strengthening. The assignment is anticipated to span several months, with results directly influencing Monteput’s medium-term development and financing strategy.
