Application Window Opens for Scaling Investable Agricultural Solutions
The SDG Impact Finance Initiative (SIFI) opened proposals for its Investment Window, offering up to 10,000,000 CHF in first-loss equity to support market-driven solutions that build resilience in agriculture, forests, and land use. The funding aims to mobilize private capital while avoiding duplication of public sector initiatives, targeting up to two awardees.
Targeting Sustainable Development Goals in ODA-Eligible Countries
Projects must operate within official development assistance (ODA)-eligible countries and directly address Sustainable Development Goal 13 for Climate Action and SDG 15 for Life on Land. The initiative prioritizes market-driven models capable of attracting significant private investment to tackle land degradation, biodiversity loss, and climate change impacts.
Eligible activities span regenerative agriculture, agroforestry, sustainable forest management, and climate-resilient value chains. Fund managers may also direct financing toward smallholders and agricultural small and medium-sized enterprises. Preference is given to projects integrating gender equality as a cross-cutting theme, specifically initiatives that improve women’s access to agricultural and forestry resources.
Requirements for Agricultural Cooperatives and Fund Managers
Funding is distributed as first-loss equity, a financial structure designed to enhance investability, thereby attracting additional capital from private investors. Cooperatives looking at the call need to align their operational capacity with the rigorous reporting and quality standards demanded by international buyers in European and Gulf markets.
Deadlines and Submission Procedures for the Investment Window
Applicants must submit their proposals through the designated portal on the official SIFI website by 30 November 2026. Proposals must clearly demonstrate alignment with the thematic focus areas, geographical requirements, and targeted sustainability metrics.
Fund managers are instructed to review the full call documentation on the official SIFI website before final submission to verify specific reporting obligations and eligibility thresholds.
Frequently Asked Questions About the SIFI Funding Call
What is the total funding allocation available per project?
The initiative provides up to 10,000,000 CHF in total funding, which will be distributed among a maximum of two selected awardees as first-loss equity.
Which geographic regions qualify for this funding opportunity?
Projects based in countries eligible for official development assistance (ODA) are eligible to apply, as detailed in the official SIFI guidelines.
What role does gender equality play in the evaluation process?
Proposals receive preference during selection if they incorporate gender equality as a cross-cutting theme, particularly by improving women’s access to resources within agriculture and forestry.
When is the final deadline for proposal submissions?
All applications must be submitted through the official SIFI portal by 30 November 2026.
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