- EIB lends €20 million to Aisti to scale bio-based acoustic tile production.
- Production facility in Kitee, Finland, to start in the second half of 2026.
- Tiles made from patented wood fibres, offering a sustainable alternative to mineral wool.
- Initial production capacity to reach 2.5 million square meters annually.
Investment and Expansion
The European Investment Bank (EIB) has granted a €20 million loan to Finnish startup Aisti to enhance its production of bio-based acoustic tiles. This funding will double the planned capacity of Aisti's production facility in Kitee, Eastern Finland, set to commence operations in the second half of 2026.
Sustainable Materials
Aisti's acoustic tiles are crafted from patented wood fibres, providing a sustainable alternative to traditional mineral wool tiles. These tiles are designed for use in commercial and public sector buildings, such as schools and offices, and contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from buildings.
EU Green Goals
The EIB loan supports the European Union's climate change initiatives and the promotion of a circular economy by backing recyclable and reusable goods. Aisti's tiles, free from mineral wool fibres, do not release harmful fibres into indoor air, aligning with EU environmental sustainability goals.
Production and Market Impact
The planned factory will feature an energy-efficient production process powered by clean electricity, with an initial annual production capacity of 2.5 million square meters, covering 17% of the Nordic acoustic tile market. The EIB loan will also fund research and development to enhance the tiles' acoustic and fire-resistant properties, facilitating market expansion in Europe.
Regional Development
Beyond environmental benefits, the project promotes skilled job creation in a rural area with limited industrial activity and fosters knowledge transfer in bio-based manufacturing. It also contributes to the European Investment Bank’s TechEU initiative, accelerating innovation in sustainable, biomass-based solutions.
