Citi Partners with KOMA Modular to Build a Post-Earthquake School for 700 Children In Italy

In April 2009, the earthquake that struck the town of L'Aquila, in central Italy, damaged buildings, homes and most devastatingly, the lives of thousands of individuals. Rebuilding the physical structures that were destroyed was the one of the first steps in bringing normalcy back to the lives of those affected.

Shortly after the earthquake, the Italian government contacted Citi client KOMA Modular and asked for their help building an elementary school to serve the needs of local schoolchildren. After just six weeks of construction, the school opened its doors to 700 students who were able to return to their studies for the first time since the earthquake struck. This project is a wonderful example of the long-standing relationship between Citi and KOMA Modular.

Citi began working with KOMA Modular in 2002 when it was seeking financial advice and international banking services. Since then, Citi has worked with KOMA Modular's founder and director Stanislav Martinec, as he has taken on new projects and expanded the company abroad. Citi's global footprint plays an important role in Mr. Martinec's vision as he continues to grow his company and look to new projects that stretch beyond KOMA's current footprint in Europe.

When working with KOMA Modular, Citi often serves as a financial advisor and assists in negotiations for attaining new business. In the case of the school for L`Aquila, Citi financed production of the school immediately after the contract was signed, and issued necessary performance and warranty bonds accepted by Italian state authorities. Over the years, I have always admired the vision and attitude of Mr. Martinec, and we have formed a strong working relationship as KOMA has come to trust that it can count on this type of agility and support from Citi.

With the rise of natural disasters around the world, Citi and KOMA must react quickly to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected. After nearly 12 years of working together, I am very proud to be able to see the progress that we have made.