Sparebank 1 Helgeland

Date:9.5.2025
Country:Norway
Customer:Sparebank 1 Helgeland
Amount in NOK:NOK 300 million
Amount in EUR:EUR 26 million
Maturity:5 years
Business sector:Financial Institutions

Facilities

Arctic Financing Facility (read more): 100%

Project

This Arctic loan facility has been provided for on-lending to small and medium sized enterprises and environmental projects in Helgeland in the County of Nordland.

Fulfilment of NIB's mandate

The loan aims to alleviate credit constraints for smaller companies, which are at a comparative disadvantage and thus facilitate productivity growth. SMEs and smaller mid-caps, which rely heavily on bank financing, face greater challenges in accessing finance compared to large enterprises. Since these companies contribute significantly to aggregate output and employment in the member area, improved access to financing for productivity-raising projects can enhance competitive pressure and market efficiency.

Sustainability summary

The client has implemented a transition plan to reduce emissions from its portfolio. Scope 3 emissions make up 99% of the total emissions, with aquaculture, agriculture, forestry, and real estate being the sectors with the highest share. For loans exceeding NOK 5 million, an ESG assessment is conducted, and a dialogue on emission reduction is established. The targets are to reduce scope 3 emissions by 2.5% annually until 2030 and to achieve net zero by 2050.

12.5.2025

NIB signs Arctic SME onlending facility with SpareBank 1 Helgeland