SDG Impact Finance Initiative announces its fourth call for proposals under the Innovation Window

The SDG Impact Finance Initiative (“the Initiative”) announces a fourth call for proposals in 2025 targeting a new set of UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The SDG Impact Finance Initiative’s Innovation Window awards grants for innovative impact finance solutions that will mobilize private capital for sustainable development in emerging and frontier markets.

The fourth call for proposals will target financial solutions addressing economic and social inequalities through financial innovation, with a particular emphasis on tackling the local currency challenge.

Call Focus and Objectives

This fourth call for proposals will support financial innovation solutions (e.g. investment vehicles or financial mechanisms) that address one or more of the following UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 1: No Poverty
• SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

By addressing the local currency challenge, the Initiative aims to:

• Mitigate exchange rate risks to enhance financial sustainability.
• Facilitate access to long-term financing for local businesses and institutions.
• Align funding with local economic conditions to foster stability and growth.
• Support local actors in implementing SDG-related projects effectively.

The Initiative will allocate a total of up to CHF 2,000,000, with individual grants of up to CHF 500,000. Selected innovators will receive funding based on the alignment of their project with the Initiative’s goals and their ability to mobilize private capital.

The Initiative is funded by the Swiss Government (SECO and SDC), The Grand Duchy of Luxemburg (the Ministry of Finance) and the UBS Optimus Foundation.

Learn more and apply here!

DEADLINE: Concept notes must be submitted by March 3rd 2025 at 12:00 (noon, CET) – early submissions are highly encouraged!