BAKU, Azerbaijan, February 1. In 2024, the
European Investment Bank (EIB) Group continued its robust support
for high-impact projects across Belgium, contributing to EU policy
goals and global climate priorities, Trend reports.
The Group, which includes both the EIB and its subsidiary, the
European Investment Fund (EIF), committed nearly 89 billion euros
globally, with 51 billion euros directed toward climate and
environmental initiatives.
In Belgium, the EIB Group’s financing reached approximately 2.06
billion euros, with 146.9 million euros channeled through the EIF.
A significant portion, about 81%, was dedicated to climate-related
projects. Key investments included upgrades to drinking water
infrastructure with De Watergroep in Flanders and financial support
for SMEs, mid-sized enterprises, and innovative scale-ups in
Wallonia.
The EIB Group’s commitment to energy security was evident, with
over a third of its funding directed to energy projects. Notably, a
650 million euro loan supported the first phase of Elia’s Princess
Elizabeth Island, which will play a central role in Belgium’s
renewable energy production and strengthen Europe’s energy
supply.
Healthcare also remained a priority, with a 230 million euro
loan for UZ Leuven’s health campus, additional support for
Antwerp’s “Ziekenhuis aan de stroom,” and backing for Nyxoah, a
medical research company focused on obstructive sleep apnoea
treatments.
The EIF continued its strong support for Belgium’s SMEs,
offering guarantees and equity to investment funds. With backing
from the European Commission’s InvestEU programme, the EIF
facilitated growth funds like Smartfin Capital, which focuses on
transformative tech scale-ups, and M80 Capital, which is investing
in the digital transformation of SMEs.
EIB Group Vice-President Robert de Groot emphasized that the
focus will continue to be on projects that improve everyday life,
particularly in the areas of energy, affordable housing, and
healthcare, while supporting Belgium’s thriving biotech sector.
