Excellent results from EIB-supported BioNTech / Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine trial

The EIB and BioNTech SE (Nasdaq: BNTX, BioNTech) today concluded a EUR 100 million debt financing agreement to support the development of BNT162, the company’s COVID-19 vaccine program. The deal will also allow the company to expand its manufacturing capacity in order to supply the vaccine fast worldwide in response to the pandemic. This will be done at the company’s own risk while the clinical studies are ongoing. BioNTech became the first European company to enter clinical testing, having started a clinical trial in Germany in April and a further clinical trial in the United States at the beginning of May. BioNTech’s development program for BNT162 is one of the broadest development programs globally, with four vaccine candidates being tested in parallel.

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €30 million loan with Spanish company Sateliot to co-finance the rollout of its constellation of over 100 LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellites, providing internet of things (IoT) connectivity across the world.

A newly modernised paediatric infectious diseases department was opened today at the Zhytomyr Regional Tuberculosis Dispensary in the village of Guiva, Zhytomyr Oblast. Dedicated to providing care for children, the department, which includes a fully equipped intensive care unit, can now accommodate more young patients. The renovation also included extensive energy efficiency upgrades, structural insulation and the complete modernisation of the building’s engineering networks, equipment and plumbing systems. It now offers safer, more accessible and modern conditions for young patients, including internally displaced persons and individuals with disabilities, ensuring quality care for those who need it most.