Loan support for IMEC project
The Fortis deal uses a facility that the European long-term financing institution EIB offers to Belgian banks for projects in the area of innovation. Fortis plans to refinance IMEC's loan by means of a favourable credit facility. The loan is covered by a guarantee from the Flemish Government.
The construction of the cleanroom involves an investment of EUR84mn. Construction started on the new research facility in February 2003. The technical infrastructure will be complete in April 2004, ready for the installation of the research equipment. IMEC has concluded partnerships with five of the world's leading semiconductor manufacturers, Infineon, Intel, Philips, Samsung Electronics and STMicroelectronics. Letters of intent with several leading equipment manufacturers have been signed to deliver the latest process tools.
