Investors play a pivotal role in shaping society, now arguably more than ever – through the choices they make in terms of where they decide to put their money and the returns they are satisfied with.

By investing capital and resources in businesses likely to bring significant, sustainable economic gains to low-income communities, investors can positively impact those communities, in the process helping to determine how not just the current generation but future generations will live.

Note 1: SME Investor Toolkit

The UNCDF MAP Investor Series, Note 1 – SME Investor Toolkit provides insights into trends in low-income, emerging markets. It considers what it would take for SMEs to start firing on all cylinders and fulfil their potential as the engines of economic growth they are commonly assumed to be. The note emphasises identifying common ground and mutually beneficial opportunities for investors, policymakers and entrepreneurs to work together to shape a better society for the next generation. One thing is certain in the post-COVID world: multi-partnering will be key – and between diverse players too.

In addition to those of government, business/financial backers and entrepreneurs, there will need to be contributions from the likes of conservationists, scientists, urban and rural planners, NGOs, consumers, producers, and grassroots, indigenous and civil society organisations.

Note 2: Opportunities to finance clean energy for the low-income at scale

The UNCDF MAP Note 2 – Clean Energy Investor Toolkit provides insights into the realities of energy and clean energy demand and supply in low-income, emerging markets. It considers the investment case – opportunities and challenges – for expanding energy inclusion to the point where clean energy could fulfil its potential as a transformative mechanism: improving livelihoods (especially of low-income households and MSMEs) and increasing access to opportunities in support of inclusive economic growth, while combatting climate change.