The European Investment Bank (EIB) is lending €100 million to global technology group Freudenberg to boost research and development focused on AI, automation, and sustainable technologies, the EIB announced. The financing backs a total investment program of around €214 million aimed at keeping the German company competitive through digital transformation and breakthrough tech across its diverse product lines.
Freudenberg invests heavily in R&D already—about €600 million last year, or 5% of sales. Products less than four years old now make up 31% of revenue. The new money will support work in automotive, e-mobility, medical technology, technical textiles, filtration, and specialty chemicals, helping Freudenberg stay ahead in markets ranging from healthcare to advanced materials.
Thomas Herr, CFO of the Freudenberg Group, says the EIB’s backing confirms the company’s strategy of securing long-term competitiveness through innovation, digitalization, and sustainability. EIB Vice President Nicola Beer calls it a “shining example” of supporting corporate innovation and industrial leadership in Germany and Europe, pointing to Freudenberg’s track record in medical technology awards and pioneering sustainable materials.
The attractive loan terms give Freudenberg access to an independent financing source, diversifying its capital base and increasing flexibility for targeted investments in expertise and future technologies. The financing also helps strengthen research, development, and skilled jobs at Freudenberg’s European sites while promoting employee training.
With 52,000 employees worldwide, Freudenberg’s innovation culture attracts top talent to its R&D activities. The project aligns with the EIB’s Tech-EU initiative to advance technological sovereignty and innovation in Europe. It also supports EU climate goals—Freudenberg has committed to climate neutrality through the UN Global Compact, already cutting greenhouse gas emissions and increasing renewable energy in its operations while certifying sites to ISO standards.
