The European Investment Bank (EIB), through the EIB Institute, and Close the Gap started their partnership in the second quarter of 2014. The first donation of IT assets occurred in November 2014. To date, the EIB has donated more than 1400 assets.

Building on this successful partnership, at the end of July 2017, Close the Gap and the EIB signed a prolongation for three more years. Close the gap would not exist without the strong, supportive and dedicated commitment of its partners in industrialised, emerging and developing countries. The continuation of this partnership is a real success for Digital for Development and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Corporate responsibility is embedded in the EU Bank’s mission: the EIB operates on a non-profit basis to support the creation of a sustainable and inclusive economy without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Thus, donating used IT equipment through the EIB Institute is recognised as a responsible way to curb environmental and social impacts of linear consumption.

The EIB Institute was set up within the EIB Group (European Investment Bank and European Investment Fund) to promote a social, cultural and scientific dialogue with European stakeholders. It is a key pillar of the EIB Group engagement as a responsible and sustainable public financial institution.