online-learning

E-learning Course – Demystifying Blended Finance


Examinons le Financement Mixte

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Demystifying Blended Finance (public)

Examinons le Financement Mixte (public)

Explorando el Financiamiento Mixto (público)

Demystifying Blended Finance

Explorando el Financiamiento Mixto

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__Member Training: A Spotlight on Blended Finance in Latin America and the Caribbean, May 29th, 2024, 9:00am-10:15am EST__

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Details to follow.

Member Training: A Spotlight on Blended Finance in Latin America and the Caribbean

Join us for a Spotlight on Blended Finance in Latin America and the Caribbean

Blended Finance in Latin America and the Caribbean

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__Member Training: A Spotlight on Blended Finance in the Asia-Pacific, March 27th, 2024, 9:00am-10:15am EST__

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Details to follow.

Member Training: A Spotlight on Blended Finance in the Asia-Pacific

Join us for a Spotlight on Blended Finance in the Asia-Pacific

Blended Finance in the Asia-Pacific

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__Member Training: A Spotlight on Blended Finance across the African continent, January 31st, 2024, 9:00am-10:15am EST__

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Details to follow.

Member Training: A Spotlight on Blended Finance across the African Continent

Join us for a Spotlight on Blended Finance across the African continent

Blended Finance across the African Continent

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You're invited on __December 13th at 9:00AM ET__ for an update on Blended Finance in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).

Convergence’s Historical Deals Database has recorded 171 blended transactions targeting LAC in part or in full, representing aggregate committed financing of $26 billion.

LAC remains a popular area of interest for blended finance practitioners, and blended finance can play a pioneering role, working alongside local governments by deploying catalytic capital into emerging segments and pockets of competitiveness, paving a road for private capital to follow. Join us as we discuss the trends, opportunities, and challenges of blended finance in LAC. The presentation will include a panel discussion with investors in the region.

__AGENDA__ 
9:00-9:05AM - Opening Remarks with Heiner Skaliks, Senior Advisor, LAC 
9:05-9:15AM – Data highlights, Andrew Apampa, Manager & Sneha Thayil, Senior Associate 
9:15- 9:45AM – Panel discussion with investors: 
- Diego Penagos, Senior Investment Specialist, ProColombia
- Karla Gallardo, CEO, Viwala
- Ariane Pevide, Blended & Climate Finance Director, MUFG Bank 
9:45-9:55AM – Q&A 
9:55- 10:00AM – Closing remarks

__Recommended Reading:__ 
[Blended Finance in LAC](https://www.convergence.finance/resource/blended-finance-in-latin-america-and-the-caribbean/view) (member-only) 
[Can blended finance help to address Latin America’s development challenges?](https://www.convergence.finance/news-and-events/news/45fkxIORuITCWXb0WznrqZ/view) 
Developing the Solar Market in Uruguay ([English](https://www.convergence.finance/resource/developing-the-solar-market-in-uruguay-case-study/view)) ([Spanish](https://www.convergence.finance/resource/desarrollando-el-mercado-solar-en-uruguay-caso-de-estudio/view))

 Blended Finance in Latin America and the Caribbean

Join us for for an update on Blended Finance in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).

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__Inside the Deal: Plūrālis Fund, November 30th, 2023, 9:00am - 10:00am EST__

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Explore the inner workings of real blended finance transactions through Convergence's "Inside the Deal" webinar series. Each quarter, we delve into a successful deal, inviting the deal sponsor and key stakeholders to share candid insights on structuring these intricate transactions.

Our upcoming webinar features the Plūrālis Fund, a non-partisan investment vehicle dedicated to supporting independent media. By pooling blended capital from socially conscious investors Plūrālis invests in independent media companies, safeguarding their editorial independence to foster vibrant, free societies. The fund also provides capacity building and technical assistance to these companies to strengthen their business models.

During this hour-long session the Plūrālis team will provide an overview of the fund's structure and fundraising journey. Convergence will also conduct in-depth interviews with key stakeholders involved in the transaction uncovering invaluable lessons learned along the way. The webinar will conclude with an open Q&A session.

*This webinar is open to Convergence members only.*

Inside the Deal: Plūrālis Fund

Join us to learn about the Plūrālis Fund

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__Member Training: How Blended Capital is Financing Climate-Smart Agriculture, November 22nd, 2023, 9:00am - 10:15am EST__

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Rapid global population growth coupled with a shift in dietary preferences is causing unprecedented pressure on food systems, straining and depleting soils, water and biodiversity. The effects of climate change including higher temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns and invasive crops and pests are exacerbating this challenge. While agriculture must to adapt to new climate realities, it is also a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) is an approach to managing landscapes that applies a three-pronged strategy to address both climate change and food security, aiming to simultaneously achieve increased productivity, enhanced resilience and reduced emissions.

This training will look at CSA in practice and the potential broader impact of a more sustainable agricultural production value chain on health, environment, livelihoods and gender. We will invite industry practitioners to share the latest global trends for investment in the sector and the role that blended finance can play in financing and scaling up interventions. Three blended finance transactions demonstrating the application of blended finance in support of CSA will be profiled. 

This session will feature speakers from [CGIAR](https://www.cgiar.org/), the [Caribbean Climate-Smart Accelerator](https://www.caribbeanaccelerator.org/), [Sail Ventures](https://www.sailventures.com/) and [Acumen](https://acumen.org/). Please join us for an enlightening session followed by Q&A.


Member Training: How Blended Capital is Financing Climate-Smart Agriculture

Join us to learn How Blended Capital is Financing Climate-Smart Agriculture

How Blended Capital is Financing Climate-Smart Agriculture

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You're invited on __November 22nd at 10:30AM SGT__ to discuss our recently released [State of Blended Finance](https://www.convergence.finance/resource/state-of-blended-finance-2023/view) report with an additional Asia lens. 

We will share insights on the trends, opportunities, and challenges for blended finance in the region. The presentation will be followed by sharing from industry practitioners/stakeholders on key reflections on both ASEAN and South Asian region, and a Q&A.

__AGENDA__ 
10:30-10:35AM - Opening remarks 
10:35 to 10:50AM – State of Blended Finance highlights with an Asia lens 
10:50 to 11:10AM – Insights from industry practitioners/stakeholders on key reflections from ASEAN and South Asia region 
11:10 to 11:30AM – Q&A

 Blended Finance in Asia

Join us for an update on Blended Finance in Asia

WB Webinar BFC-6

__This event has now passed. Watch the recording [here](https://www.torontocentre.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=468&Itemid=99).__

Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs) are facing numerous hurdles in mobilizing the necessary transition financing for decarbonization, including fiscal constraints, restricted access to private capital, and a shortage of expertise in project development and financing. Ramping up blended finance efforts is critical for this transition.

This panel will discuss:
- some practical examples of successful blended finance transactions; and,
- the role that financial regulators and supervisors can play in creating a conducive and stable environment for these transactions.

Panelists: 
__Laura Santa__, Sustainable Finance Group Leader, Financial Superintendency of Colombia (SFC) 
__Andrew Ahiaku__, Director and Head of Financial Sector, Aceli Africa 
__Alan Elizondo__, General Director, Fideicomisos Instituidos en Relación con la Agricultura (FIRA) 
__Dr. Nnamdi Igbokwe__, Director, Knowledge and Thought Leadership, Convergence Blended Finance

Moderator: 
__Demet Çanakçi__, Senior Program Director, Toronto Centre

*In partnership with Toronto Centre*

Blended Finance for Climate Adaptation: Implications for Supervisors

Join us to learn about blended finance transactions and the role that financial regulators and supervisors can play in creating a conducive and stable environment for these transactions.

Blended Finance for Climate Adaptation

Deal Connect

Join us for an informative webinar that will connect you to relevant blended finance investment opportunities in emerging markets. During this interactive session, Convergence members will share details about their investment opportunities that are listed on our live deals database. This is a great opportunity to explore new and unique transactions and learn from developments in the broader blended finance ecosystem. 

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting, this webinar is tailored to everyone interested in discovering promising new ventures in emerging markets.

Mark your calendar for __November 15, 2023, from 9:00am to 9:45AM ET__, as we present two compelling deals with __a gender lens focus__ from our live deals database:

- __Gender, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy for Latin America and the Caribbean by Blue Orchard:__ The Gender, Diversity and Inclusion (GDI) Strategy for Latin America and the Caribbean is an investment vehicle focusing on accelerating the financial inclusion of women, indigenous groups, afro-descendants, migrants, and other underserved groups in the region through an innovative blended finance approach.
 

- __Future of Work Fund by Chancen International:__ Future of Work Fund is a fund that is designed to provide fair and ethical financing to excluded African youth who face financial constraints for equal access to vocational and higher educational programs. Funding, though direct, is channelled through educational institutions.

*This webinar series is exclusive to investors registered on the Convergence platform.*

Deal Connect: November 2023

Join us for an informative webinar that will connect you to relevant blended finance investment opportunities in emerging markets.

Please join us virtually for the launch of the 7th edition of our flagship State of Blended Finance report on Wednesday, October 25th at 9:00 am EST.

The State of Blended Finance is Convergence’s annual report on blended finance trends, opportunities, and challenges. This year’s edition of the State of Blended Finance will feature a thematic focus on blended finance for climate.

Register for updates as they become announced. Explore last year's report [here](https://www.convergence.finance/resource/state-of-blended-finance-2022/view).

__Agenda__

9:00am - Welcome Remarks, Nnamdi Igbokwe, PhD, Director, Convergence

9:05am - Key Findings: The State of Blended Finance 2023
- Robin Ivory, Senior Associate, Convergence,
- Nick Zelenczuk, Senior Associate, Convergence
- Andrew Apampa, Manager, Convergence
- Ayesha Bery, Manager, Convergence

9:25am - Q&A, Content Team, Convergence

9:35am - Panel Discussion, Moderated By Joan M. Larrea, CEO, Convergence, featuring:
- Jay Koh, Managing Director, The Lightsmith Group
- Stephanie von Friedeburg, Managing Director, Citi
- Thierry Watrin, Green Economy Advisor, Ministry of Finance of Rwanda
- Cecilia Tam, Acting Head of Energy Investment Unit, International Energy Agency (IEA)

10:05am - Q&A with Panelists

10:25am - Closing Remarks, Joan M. Larrea, CEO, Convergence

2023 State of Blended Finance Virtual Launch

Convergence is launching the 7th edition of the State of Blended Finance Report on Wednesday, October 25th at 9:00 am EST. The State of Blended Finance is Convergence’s annual report on blended finance trends, opportunities, and challenges. This year’s edition will feature a thematic focus on blended finance for climate.

2023 State of Blended Finance Launch

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__Blended Finance and Private Investment Mobilization Update, September 28th, 8:30am – 10:00am EST__

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The session is designed for and dedicated to staff from Ministries of Foreign Affairs, development agencies and Ministries of Finance at the 30 OECD DAC members who are interested in increasing investment in Low and Middle-Income Countries (LICs & MICs) to achieve the SDGs and Paris Agreement objectives. Please register for the event below, and forward to any of your interested colleagues in these organizations.

Convergence invites you to a 90-minute webinar dedicated to blended finance and private investment mobilization. 

The webinar aims to achieve the following objectives:

- Provide an update on the leading developments in blended finance and private investment mobilization in 2023
- Summarize and operationalize the new 2023 OECD DAC rules for Official Development Assistance and private investment mobilization
- Identify and describe the leading global initiatives and upcoming events in blended finance and private investment mobilization
- Summarize the current World Bank Group Private Sector Investment Lab initiative
- Identify and agree the value of instituting quarterly convenings for the OECD DAC community (and philanthropic foundations) to advance blended finance good practices to increase levels of investment for SDG and climate impact
- Agree the best events and activities Convergence can undertake in 2023-24 to support OECD DAC members and philanthropic foundations for blended finance and private investment mobilization
- Convene a virtual networking event to allow all new and continuing staff at OECD DAC members to engage with each other – there has been immense turnover in blended finance / private investment mobilization roles and this post-summer event is a good way to connect and re-connect practitioners

*This session is exclusive to Development Agencies, Ministries of Foreign Affairs/International Development.*

If you have any questions or suggestions, please contact comms@convergence.finance,  Mira.Minkara@convergence.finance or Chris.Clubb@convergence.finance

Blended Finance and Private Investment Mobilization Update

Join us for a 90-minute webinar dedicated to blended finance and private investment mobilization.

Member Training: Blended Investments in Renewable Energy

__Member Training: Blended Investments in Renewable Energy, September 21st, 9am – 10:30am EST__

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As countries worldwide set ambitious targets to achieve Net Zero, adopting renewable and clean energy sources is high on the agenda. Despite this, emerging economies with high potential for renewable energy development such as solar and wind, face financing challenges to the implementation of these solutions.

Our 90 minute session will cover:
- An assessment of the current global renewable energy landscape, with a spotlight on developing economies.
- Convergence data trends on blended finance for global renewable energy investments: what is happening where?
- Insights from the [Climate Policy Initiative](https://www.climatepolicyinitiative.org/) on what barriers exist for investors and how policy and blended finance can be used to structure financial products that address these barriers.
- How to blend capital and assess risk at the fund-of-fund, fund, facility and/or project-level.
- We will also explore three specific renewable energy transactions in detail:
  - [AllianzGI](https://www.allianzgi.com/) and the [Emerging Markets Climate Action Fund](https://emcaf.allianzgi.com/)
  - [DBSA](https://www.dbsa.org/) and the [Climate Finance Facility](https://www.convergence.finance/deal/c8014dcb-ae24-4ce5-a8b8-27d7a46ef661/view)
  - [CrossBoundary](https://www.crossboundary.com/) and the [CrossBoundary Energy Fund](https://www.convergence.finance/deal/a0337000008gKkfAAE/view)

After this Member Training you will walk away with a high-level understanding of the renewable energy sector, the barriers to investment as well as examples of successful blended finance transactions and their impact in developing markets.  

*Space is limited to ensure an intensive and practice-driven learning experience. Each Convergence member organization has two complimentary seats in each training. To claim these seats select 'Register' above. From Eventbrite, choose 'Tickets' and enter the promo code you received by email to receive free access. Non-members can register for a fee of USD100.*

Join us for analyses on the renewable energy industry to date and how blended transactions are being structured in the sector and their impact.

In partnership with [Roots of Impact](http://www.roots-of-impact.org/) and the [Center for Sustainable Finance and Private Wealth (CSP)](https://www.csp.uzh.ch/en.html) at the University of Zurich this is an actionable, practice-driven executive program.

The program aims at empowering public, philanthropic and private sector funders to collaborate effectively to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. A special ingredient are solutions that demonstrate how to enable high-impact enterprises with market-based solutions to scale and deliver positive impact in a sustainable way – a bottom-up approach. Our more than 160 IIBF alumni to date come from major organisations across the globe, e.g. UNDP, USAID, SDC/DEZA, GIZ, Global Affairs Canada, IFC, SECO, FAO as well as renowned foundations or NGOs such as UNICEF, Shell Foundation, Aqua for All, SOS Children’s Villages, and Refugee Investment Network.

IIBF runs as an open program (based upon application) at its home base at the University of Zurich, Switzerland. It builds on the extensive academic and practical expertise of Roots of Impact, Convergence and the Center for Sustainable Finance and Private Wealth (CSP).

Impact Investment & Blended Finance Executive Program 2023

This actionable, practice-driven executive program aims at empowering public, philanthropic and private sector funders to collaborate effectively to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Executive program for impact investment and blended finance

Convergence Eventbrite

You're invited on __August 31st at 9:00am SGT__ for a virtual presentation of Convergence's recent data brief, [Blended Finance in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)](https://www.convergence.finance/resource/blended-finance-in-the-association-of-southeast-asian-nations-asean/view).

Convergence’s Historical Deals Database has recorded 107 blended transactions targeting ASEAN in part or in full, representing aggregate committed financing of US $20.7 billion.

ASEAN is primed to benefit from an increase in catalytic capital. Its commitment to net zero, the availability of financing, and its focus on sustainability, combined with its high projected economic growth, means that blended finance can be an effective tool in solving some of the challenges facing the region. Join us as we discuss the trends, opportunities, and challenges of blended finance in ASEAN. The presentation will include a panel discussion with leading investors in the region.

__AGENDA__

9:00-9:05AM - Opening Remarks with Ritesh Thakkar, Senior Advisor, Asia Pacific

9:05-9:20AM – Data brief highlights, Convergence Content Team

9:20- 9:45AM – Panel discussion with leading investors

9:45-9:55AM – Q&A

9:55- 10:00AM – Closing remarks

Virtual Presentation: Blended Finance in ASEAN

Join us for a virtual presentation of Convergence's recent data brief, Blended Finance in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)

Blended Finance in ASEAN

Join us for an informative webinar that will connect you to relevant blended finance investment opportunities in emerging markets. During this interactive session, Convergence members will share details about their investment opportunities that are listed on our live deals database. This is a great opportunity to explore new and unique transactions and learn from developments in the broader blended finance ecosystem. 

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, this webinar is tailored to everyone interested in discovering promising new ventures in emerging markets.

Mark your calendar for August 22, 2023, from 9-10 am EST, as we present three compelling deals from our live deals database:

- __Green Impact Earth Fund (GEIF) by Blue Orchard:__ This is a global Climate Focused Funds of Funds strategy that offers investments into innovative private equity, sustainable real assets, and private debt funds   in emerging and frontier markets, with a focus on addressing climate     change, water protection, and biodiversity.
- __Menterra Social Impact Fund 2 by Setuka Partners:__
  Menterra Social Impact Fund 2 aims to tackle critical issues in agriculture, healthcare, and education in India through private investments that generate both commercial returns and profound social impact.
- __The Nutritious Foods Financing Facility (N3F) by Incofin:__
  The Nutritious Foods Financing Facility (N3F) is an open-ended debt fund     that provides loans and technical assistance to SMEs supporting nutritious, safe foods in Sub-Saharan Africa.

*This webinar series is exclusive to investors registered on the Convergence platform.*


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__Member Training: Gender-Lens Applications in Blended Finance, July 26th, 9am – 10:15am EDT (GMT-4)__

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Back by popular demand, this session will revisit how a gender-lens can be applied to blended finance. Over 75 minutes, this interactive seminar will look at how gender-lens investing in blended finance is evolving and provide practical examples from our member community. We will be joined by Criterion Institute, Setuka Partners, Incofin, and Terra Global Capital.  

*The training has limited space to ensure an intensive and practice-driven learning experience. Each Convergence member organization has two complimentary seats in each training. To claim these seats select 'Register' above and you will be directed to Eventbrite. Once there, choose 'Tickets' and enter the __promo code__ you received by email __above__ 'General Admission' for free access. Non-members can register for a fee of USD100.*

Member Training: Gender-Lens Applications in Blended Finance

Convergence along with expert practitioners will take a look at how a gender-lens can be applied in blended finance, how gender-lens investing in blended finance is evolving, and provide practical examples.

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__Wednesday, June 28th, 2023, from 9:00 am-10:00am SGT__

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We invite you to join us virtually for the launch of the [Asia Climate Solutions (ACS) Design Grant](https://www.convergence.finance/design-funding/open-window/Asia-climate-solutions-design-grant). The ACS Grant will award feasibility study and proof of concept grants for the design and launch of innovative blended finance solutions that mobilize private capital to sectors critical for climate transition and resilience in developing markets in Asia including nature-based solutions (NbS), clean energy transition, and sustainable cities and infrastructure. 

Register for the webinar to:
- Learn about Convergence’s Design Funding Program and the ACS Design Grant
- Find out more about the ACS Design Grant anchor donors
- Gain insight into how to apply, grant eligibility, and evaluation criteria
- Get your questions answered, and more

The anchor donors of the ACS Design Grant are the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Australia, Olayan Group, and UBS Optimus Foundation.

*The ACS Design Grant is now open and the first deadline to submit concept notes is coming up on July 16, 2023. Visit the [ACS Design Grant page](https://www.convergence.finance/design-funding/open-window/Asia-climate-solutions-design-grant) to learn more and apply.*

Asia Climate Solutions Design Grant: Info Session (Asia/West Coast)

Join us virtually for the launch of the new Asia Climate Solutions Design Grant

Learn about the new Asia Climate Solutions Design Grant

__Tuesday, June 27th, 2023, from 9:00 am-10:00am EST__

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We invite you to join us virtually for the launch of the [Asia Climate Solutions (ACS) Design Grant](https://www.convergence.finance/design-funding/open-window/Asia-climate-solutions-design-grant). The ACS Grant will award feasibility study and proof of concept grants for the design and launch of innovative blended finance solutions that mobilize private capital to sectors critical for climate transition and resilience in developing markets in Asia including nature-based solutions (NbS), clean energy transition, and sustainable cities and infrastructure. 

Register for the webinar to:
- Learn about Convergence’s Design Funding Program and the ACS Design Grant
- Find out more about the ACS Design Grant anchor donors
- Gain insight into how to apply, grant eligibility, and evaluation criteria
- Get your questions answered, and more

The anchor donors of the ACS Design Grant are the Monetary Authority of Singapore, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Australia, Olayan Group, and UBS Optimus Foundation.

*The ACS Design Grant is now open and the first deadline to submit concept notes is coming up on July 16, 2023. Visit the [ACS Design Grant page](https://www.convergence.finance/design-funding/open-window/Asia-climate-solutions-design-grant) to learn more and apply.*

Asia Climate Solutions Design Grant: Info Session (Europe/East Coast)

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Join the virtual launch and panel discussion of Convergence's recent report, [Best Practices for Donor Governments Engaging in Blended Finance](https://www.convergence.finance/resource/best-practices-for-donor-governments-engaging-in-blended-finance/view). 

This report, produced in partnership with [Global Affairs Canada](https://www.international.gc.ca/global-affairs-affaires-mondiales/home-accueil.aspx?lang=eng), explores how select donor countries (member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Development Assistance Committee (DAC)) have designed and operated their blended finance programs. It considers the factors that have guided their decision-making and explores the best practices underpinning efficient resource allocation, optimal development, and climate impact outcomes. 

This report was constructed through direct engagement with nine donor countries, who provided insights on the varied institutional configurations covering a variety of blended instruments and approaches. 

Stay tuned for more information.

__AGENDA__

8:00-8:05: Opening remarks

8:05-8:20: Report highlights

8:20-9:00: Panel Discussion

9:00-9:25: Q&A

9:25-9:30: Closing Remarks

Virtual Report Launch: Best Practices for Donor Governments Engaging in Blended Finance

Join the virtual launch and panel discussion of Convergence's recent report, Best Practices for Donor Governments Engaging in Blended Finance.

Blended Finance Best Practices for Donor Governments

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Convergence's "Inside the Deal" webinar series provides a unique opportunity for members to gain insight into the intricate workings of real blended finance transactions. In each quarterly webinar, we showcase a deal that has achieved at least one financial close and invite the deal sponsor and other relevant stakeholders to candidly share their experiences in structuring the transaction.

In the upcoming webinar, we will focus on the AGRI3 Fund, a collaboration between UNEP, Rabobank, FMO, and IDH. The fund aims to mobilize capital by providing credit enhancement tools and technical assistance to promote sustainable practices in agricultural value chains and prevent deforestation. The fund’s model works through partner-banks, to mobilise financing by de-risking and catalysing transactions.

During the hour-long webinar, the AGRI3 team will provide an overview of the fund's design and fundraising experience. Additionally, Convergence will conduct an in-depth interview with key stakeholders involved in the transaction, highlighting valuable lessons learned. The webinar will conclude with an open Q&A session.

*This webinar is open to Convergence members only.*

Inside the Deal: AGRI3 Fund

Join us for this webinar exploring the AGRI3 Fund, a collaboration between UNEP, Rabobank, FMO, and IDH.

You're invited on June 7th for a virtual presentation of Convergence's recent report, [Evaluating the Impact of Blended Finance: Convergence's Case Study Portfolio Revisited](https://www.convergence.finance/resource/evaluating-the-impact-of-blended-finance-convergences-case-study-portfolio/view).

Since 2015, Convergence has written 28 case studies on blended finance transactions, detailing the journey of blended finance practitioners when structuring, fundraising, and launching blended finance deals.

Evaluating the Impact of Blended explores the ex-post financial and impact performance of blended finance deals, by revisiting our case study portfolio to document achieved returns, target beneficiaries, and reporting practices, amongst other key issues. 

The presentation will include a panel discussion with past case study sponsors where they will share their perspectives on what they have achieved through blended finance as well as their thoughts on the trajectory of the market going forward.

Speakers:
- Alex Eaton, CEO and co-founder of Sistema.bio
- Urmi Sengupta, Senior Program Officer at MacArthur Foundation
- Leah Carriere, Senior Program Manager, Sustainable Debt at The Nature Conservancy (TNC)
- Mac Cloyes, Chief of Staff, Blue Forest

__AGENDA__

10:00-10:10AM - Opening Remarks with Convergence and MacArthur Foundation

10:10-10:25AM - Report highlights, Convergence Content Team

10:25-10:30AM - Q&A

10:30-11:00AM - Panel discussion with Case Study Partners

11:00- 11:15AM - Q&A

11:15AM - Closing remarks

Virtual Presentation: Evaluating the Impact of Blended Finance Report

Join us for a virtual presentation of Convergence's recent report, Evaluating the Impact of Blended Finance: Convergence's Case Study Portfolio Revisited.

Evaluating the Impact of Blended Finance Report

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__Member Training: Leverage Ratios Across Fund Structures, May 31st, 9am – 10:15am EDT (GMT-4)__

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This seminar is the second instalment in a new series of online trainings aimed at providing practical knowledge on blended finance based on our members' most frequent questions. Over 1.25 hours (75 minutes), this interactive seminar will look at the critical question of how to determine the right leverage ratio based on various factors including fund structure, sector and geographic focus. Convergence along with expert practitioners will weigh in on this important topic and share examples of calculations and considerations that helped determine the appropriate leverage ratio for their blended investment vehicle. 

*The training has limited space to ensure an intensive and practice-driven learning experience. Each Convergence member organization has two complimentary seats in each training. To claim these seats select 'Register' above and you will be directed to Eventbrite. Once there, choose 'Tickets' and enter the __promo code__ you received by email __above__ 'General Admission' for free access. Non-members can register for a fee of USD100.*

Member Training: Leverage Ratios Across Fund Structures

Convergence along with expert practitioners will weigh in on this important topic and share examples of calculations and considerations that helped determine the appropriate leverage ratio for their blended investment vehicle.

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__Tuesday, May 30th, 2023, from 10:00 am-11:00am EST__

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We invite you to join us virtually for the launch of [the new Catalytic Climate Finance Facility (CC Facility)](https://www.convergence.finance/design-funding/open-window/ccfacility),  which is focused on scaling sustainable climate finance by providing market acceleration services to early-stage and market-ready blended financial vehicles in under-financed areas and sectors in developing countries. 
The CC Facility is a partnership between Convergence and Climate Policy Initiative (CPI), two global leaders in blended and climate finance. 

Register for the webinar to:
- Learn about the CC Facility and what makes it unique
- Hear from Convergence and CPI on why we decided to partner on the CC Facility
- Gain insights into how to apply and eligibility and evaluation criteria
- Get your questions about the CC Facility answered

With funding from three anchor donors, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Global Affairs Canada, and Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the CC Facility targets one of the main barriers  in the development process of a climate blended finance idea: the acceleration stage, when solutions face critical barriers and stagnation due to a lack of support. 

*The CC Facility is now open and the first deadline to submit concept notes is coming up on June 9, 2023. Visit [the CC Facility page](https://www.convergence.finance/design-funding/open-window/ccfacility) to learn more and apply.*

__Agenda__
- 10:00-10:10 AM ET - Opening remarks and introduction to the CC Facility
- 10:10-10:20 AM ET - Why Convergence and CPI have partnered to launch the CC Facility - including brief introductions to Convergence’s Design Funding Program and CPI’s Global Innovation Lab for Blended Finance 
- 10:20-10:40 AM ET - How to apply to the CC Facility and eligibility and evaluation criteria
- 10:40-11:00 AM ET - Q&A and conclusion 


The Catalytic Climate Finance Facility: Info Session

Join us virtually for the launch of the new Catalytic Climate Finance Facility

Learn about the new Catalytic Climate Finance Facility

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__Financing Nature-based Solutions in Southeast Asia, Friday, May 26th, 8:30am - 2:00pm SST__

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There is a growing need for a new generation of products and systems to accelerate and enhance the scale of NbS investments that will serve Southeast Asia’s green commodity and Nature-based Solutions (NbS) markets. [Palladium](https://thepalladiumgroup.com/) and [Convergence](https://www.convergence.finance/) are organizing a half-day knowledge-sharing and networking event in Singapore on May 26, 2023 to build relationships among project developers, investors, and donors with an interest in scaling financing for NbS.

This knowledge exchange and networking event will increase the visibility of project financing needs, investor requirements and viewpoints, and showcase solutions for effectively deploying capital for nature-based solutions (NbS) in SEA leading to new collaboration opportunities and innovation for scaling up NbS models.

The event will take place in the central business district of Singapore from 9 AM to 2 PM and include a light breakfast and lunch. The draft agenda is available on the registration page.

Please contact Steve Bosak, partner at DTG, at steve@designthinkersgroup.us with any questions.

Financing Nature-based Solutions in Southeast Asia

Join Palladium and Convergence for a half-day knowledge-sharing and networking event in Singapore.

Training

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TwtLBOWBARk

The State of Blended Finance is Convergence's flagship annual report that provides an updated analysis of the blended finance market, including blending approaches, sectors, regions, and investor trends. The launch event included a presentation of report highlights and key findings followed by a panel discussion featuring speakers from Citi, The Lightsmith Group, the International Energy Agency and Rwanda's Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning.

This year’s edition once again focuses on climate. Drawing from our Historical Deals Database, the report presents new data and analyses on the global market for blended finance for both climate mitigation and adaptation, including insights on deal and investor trends. The report also illustrates the present blended finance landscape with expert commentary from Climate Policy Initiative, International Monetary Fund, International Energy Agency, and many more.

Read the full report [here](https://www.convergence.finance/resource/state-of-blended-finance-2023/view).

The State of Blended Finance is Convergence's flagship annual report that provides an updated analysis of the blended finance market, including blending approaches, sectors, regions, and investor trends.

The State of Blended Finance 2023 Launch Recording

[https://prod-convergence-public.s3.amazonaws.com/webinars//joan_mas_full.mp4](https://prod-convergence-public.s3.amazonaws.com/webinars//joan_mas_full.mp4)

On October 4, 2022 Convergence participated in the Transition Finance towards Net Zero: Scaling Blended Finance conference. The conference, which took place in Singapore, was organized by the Monetary Authority of Singapore with knowledge partners McKinsey & Company and Convergence. Watch Convergence CEO Joan Larrea's presentation on the basics of blended finance.

The power of blended finance lies in its ability to pool capital from public, private and philanthropic sectors to achieve superior development outcomes and contribute to the SDGs in developing countries. This session introduced the concept of blended finance and demonstrated how, where and when this approach is best deployed. It also provided an overview of the blended finance landscape and covered the role of the various stakeholders in the space. 

How does blended finance mobilize commercial capital by altering the risk and return paradigm? How can various stakeholders support a transaction whilst concurrently achieving their organizational objectives?

Watch more videos on blended finance [here](https://www.youtube.com/@ConvergenceBlendedFinance).

Watch Convergence CEO Joan Larrea's presentation on the basics of blended finance at the Transition Finance towards Net Zero: Scaling Blended Finance conference in Singapore.

Blended Finance: What is it and how does it work?

An Overview of Blended Finance: What is it and how does it work?

[https://prod-convergence-public.s3.amazonaws.com/webinars//edited_State+of+Blended+Finance+2022+launch.mp4](https://prod-convergence-public.s3.amazonaws.com/webinars//edited_State+of+Blended+Finance+2022+launch.mp4)

The State of Blended Finance is Convergence's flagship annual report that provides an updated analysis of the blended finance market, including blending approaches, sectors, regions, and investor trends. The launch event included a presentation of report highlights and key findings followed by a panel discussion featuring speakers from Allianz, The Nature Conservancy, IFC, and The Shell Foundation.

For the first time, this year’s report focuses on climate and provides an overview of the state of the market for both blended finance for mitigation and adaptation, including insights on deal and investor trends. The report also includes includes expert commentary from Swiss Re, the Nature Conservancy, Shell Foundation, and more.

Read the full report [here](https://www.convergence.finance/resource/state-of-blended-finance-2022/view).

Capacity Building

Convergence hosts a range of blended finance capacity building programs for practitioners. Options are available across all audience levels and are offered both in-person and online.