The Dutch bank launched Sustainable Investments to help innovative, sustainable scale-ups across all sectors with proven concepts and positive environmental impacts. Specifically, it will target companies that need funds to expand their business in an organic manner or utilise a buy-and-build approach.

The funds will be invested over a period of three to four years and the bank will initially target companies in the Benelux, afterwards pursuing its other core markets. Mark Weustink, director of ING’s corporate investments team, will manage and take the helm of the initiative.

Sustainable Investment is also a part of the bank’s sustainability strategy. This strategy’s goal is to fast-track sustainable businesses in a number of areas such as the circular economy, water, and transitional energy. It seeks to do this by supporting businesses that cannot meet requirements for all-in senior financing options.

Weustink remarks that:

“Sustainability has become a strategic priority and board room topic for many of our clients. Our commitment of risk-bearing capital, ranging from junior debt to ordinary equity, enables ING to fill a client need and add to our overall sustainable finance strategy. This step enables ING to support our clients who are proactively making changes in their business models to adapt to a more sustainable and energy-friendly way for the future, and further support them throughout their journey. We are very keen to make this initiative a success for our clients and will thoroughly review every opportunity we receive.”