WHAT INNOVATIVE FINANCING MECHANISMS ARE SCALING CLIMATE-SMART TECHNOLOGIES?

The panel discusses financing mechanisms for scaling climate-smart technologies in emerging markets, particularly across Africa and South Asia. Jonathan Berman from the Shell Foundation emphasizes the importance of raising incomes while lowering emissions on a commercial basis. Astria Fataki highlights UNDP's Timbuktu initiative, which supports start-ups and entrepreneurship across Africa, focusing on connecting players and creating a true African market. Marlène Guy, CEO of FEDA, discusses their investments in infrastructure and industrialization to promote intra-Africa trade and value-added exports. The conversation explores blended finance, the role of philanthropic capital in de-risking early-stage ventures, and the increasing commercial viability of impact investing. Speakers emphasize that blended finance makes for unexpected bedfellows, noting collaborations between philanthropic and commercial entities. The discussion also touches upon the significance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the opportunities it presents for scaling businesses across the continent. The importance of commercial viability and creating long-lasting, self-sustainable businesses is a recurring theme. The panel also touches on the growing role of AI in climate data and the potential for Africa to lead in this space.