Finance
Building a Greener Future Together
How ERSTE Group Backed SmartHead
Slovenská sporiteľňa, a member of the ERSTE Group, has a long-standing commitment to environmental and social responsibility. As part of a European financial family, the bank has set ambitious long-term goals—not only for itself but also for the wider community. Their approach is straightforward: follow Europe’s lead in creating a greener, more sustainable future while also supporting local businesses.
Norbert Hovancak
Member of Board, ERSTE Group
We committed to ESG because we believe it’s central to responsible banking. By aligning our strategy with European standards, we’re ensuring we play a meaningful role in creating lasting, positive change.
Why Green Matters
For ERSTE Group, the drive to invest in green initiatives isn’t just about meeting regulations. It’s about making a tangible contribution to society. Board member Norbert Hovančák explains it best.
In practical terms, this means improving everything from air quality and climate resilience to workplace diversity.
Finding the Right Partner
When the bank looked for a digital solution to help its clients meet new European reporting requirements, developing something in-house wasn’t a realistic option. SmartHead stood out as a perfect partner due to its advanced platform and existing positive track record within the ERSTE Group network.
SmartHead’s platform simplifies the complicated process of collecting and reporting data under the CSRD directive. It’s a ready-to-use solution that allowed the bank to offer more than just advice—it provided a concrete tool that businesses could adopt right away.
By partnering with SmartHead, ERSTE Group identified multiple key benefits:
Cost Efficiency
When compared to international competitors, SmartHead emerged as the most cost-effective choice.
Credibility
Collaboration with ERSTE Group significantly boosts SmartHead’s credibility, as the bank maintains high standards for recommended solutions.
Strong References
High-profile references from global corporations like Tesco, McDonald’s, Dell, Schwarz Group, and SPP strengthen client trust.
Unique Local Provider
SmartHead is currently the only local provider of this type of ESG reporting solution, a crucial factor for both local clients and multinational corporations lacking centralized ESG management.
Ideal Timing and Proactive Approach
Clients appreciated the proactive approach to introducing SmartHead’s services early, often before competitors. Many clients had not previously been approached despite imminent reporting deadlines, and this early engagement was highly valued.
Supply Chain and Stakeholder Engagement
Companies working with multinational groups require robust ESG reports from their suppliers. SmartHead’s solution efficiently meets these demands, providing clients with ESG reports they can confidently share with stakeholders and business partners.
SmartHead had a ready-to-use solution that would have taken us years to develop internally. Our competitive edge now is that we don’t just offer consulting services; we provide a concrete product that shows companies exactly how to conduct CSRD-compliant reporting.
Norbert Hovancak
Member of Board, ERSTE Group
Real Impact for Real Businesses
SmartHead isn’t designed for one type of business—it works for everyone. Whether a company has 100 employees or 1,000, its digital platform adapts to the needs of manufacturers, service providers, and even agricultural firms. Initially, the bank focused on larger companies to build strong references, but the solution is now reaching smaller businesses as well, especially those supplying larger enterprises.
The feedback from clients has been encouraging. Even the most demanding customers have responded positively, proving that a straightforward, well-developed product can make all the difference.
When even the most challenging clients accept it, it’s a very good test of the product’s quality.
Norbert Hovancak
Member of Board, ERSTE Group
For me, it’s crucial that this solution transcends Slovakia—and I believe SmartHead is gradually achieving that. Its influence is beginning to extend, and I’m confident it won’t stop at Europe but will eventually reach worldwide.
Norbert Hovancak
Member of Board, ERSTE Group
Looking to the Future
The vision for SmartHead goes beyond just meeting current needs. The bank’s long-term goal is to see the solution adopted widely across the ERSTE Group — and eventually, globally. There’s confidence that this digital tool will continue to evolve, driven by regular client feedback and ongoing improvements.