The ECBF already counts companies such as Nestlé and Neste among its investors, as well as numerous private investors and family businesses. It is the first growth investment fund to be dedicated exclusively to projects in the field of the bioeconomy in Europe, including the accompanying circular economy. With a targeted fund size of € 250 million, the ECBF is set to become an important international financial instrument and to contribute to making Europe climate-neutral by 2050.
Koehler Paper entered the flexible packaging paper market in 2019 with a € 300 million investment in a new manufacturing line, making this the largest investment in the history of the over 210-year-old company. The intention is for flexible packaging paper with functions specific to particular applications to replace plastic packaging in future. The company is also tapping into new markets, for example thanks to its plans to start manufacturing bio-based materials for the rubber industry.
Quest for sustainability
Alongside Koehler, BÜFA and another private investor participated in the third closing of the ECBF. Michael Brandkamp, General Partner at ECBF Management GmbH is delighted by Koehler’s involvement: “What unites all of the investors in this fund is the desire to stimulate growth in innovative, bio-based companies and to promote solutions to pressing needs in the quest for sustainability.”
Together with the European Investment Bank (EIB) the ECBF, which has its headquarters in Luxembourg, has already made its first investments in companies. During the final phase of expansion, up to 25 companies with a high potential for innovation, and that are in an advanced stage of development, are set to receive funding.
Image: Koehler Group
