NIB finances Danish research into grass biotechnology

DLF-Trifolium’s research station in Denmark. Photo: DLF-Trifolium.

NIB and the Danish seed producer DLF-Trifolium A/S have signed a multicurrency loan equivalent to EUR 15 million to finance the company’s R&D programme in 2014/2015–2017/2018.

NIB’s seven-year-maturity loan will support the company in reaching its R&D goals over the next four years, focusing on plant breeding and biotechnology innovations. New varieties will be developed via a comprehensive research and breeding programme, with a special emphasis on improving traits that increase yield or boost resistance to harmful diseases or insects.

DLF-Trifolium is the world’s largest producer of clover and grass seeds, and the market leader in the specialist plant breeding sector of cool season grass. The company cooperates actively with universities and research institutes in Denmark and abroad, contributing to its technology platform for exchanging skills and knowledge across disciplines. DLF-Trifolium is based in Denmark and owned by Danish seed growers. It employs more than 800 people in 13 countries.

NIB is an international financial institution owned by eight member countries: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden. The Bank finances private and public projects in and outside the member countries. NIB has the highest possible credit rating, AAA/Aaa, with the leading rating agencies Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s.

For further information, please contact
Vagn Lundhøj, Senior Manager Origination, at +358 10 618 0370,

Niina Rantti, Communications Officer, at +358 10 618 0265,