Financing smart higher education institutions
Our smart campus financing solutions are enabling technology upgrades, sustainability, and enhanced student experiences for modern higher education institutions.
JULY 2025
By: Stephanie McAleer, Head of Structured Finance Americas, Siemens Financial Services
In an increasingly competitive environment, higher education institutions (HEIs) need cutting-edge technologies and innovative, smart solutions – including modern campuses -to remain competitive. As energy, cost, and resource efficiency become increasingly important, HEIs must utilize technology and financing to improve campus life for students, faculty, and staff. With globalization and technology advancements, HEIs require smart, integrated solutions to update technology and sustainable infrastructure, which would cater to the diverse, global student population. Smart solutions give the campus population a physical and digitally safe environment to learn in, protecting privacy and security through innovative technological campus solutions.
From building automation, energy efficiency solutions, campus security systems, and fire safety and security to lighting control, indoor air quality management, IoT integration, and smart metering, Siemens offers a wide range of technology solutions for HEIs.
Investing in a sustainable, smart campus is a strategic move for HEIs. According to a Student Voice survey conducted by Inside Higher Ed and College Pulse, 45% of high school students considered environmental sustainability in their college enrollment decisions, and 81% of college students are at least somewhat worried about climate change*. By transforming campus infrastructure and systems, HEIs can become more competitive and improve the higher education experience.
Siemens Financial Services (SFS) recognizes the importance of helping HEIs achieve competitive learning environments through financing. That is why SFS has expanded its lending criteria in the United States to provide financing solutions for HEIs.
Recently, SFS provided bond financing to a private university. The bond financing allowed the university to improve dormitories on its campus and enhance living conditions. One of the dormitories installed 24-hour front desk security, increasing safety and security for students.
SFS also offers the Digital Business Optimizer (DBO™), a free software tool that helps HEIs on their paths to efficiency, sustainability, and resilience**. With market expertise, technological and financing know-how, and insightful data, SFS and HEIs have the power to inspire future leaders, together.