Alterfin
BIO has given 19,924 EUR Technical Assistance to Alterfin, a Belgian social investor, to improve its ESMS capacities
Amount
€ 19,924.00
Type of investment
Subsidy
Beneficiary locations
Investment field
Investment Companies & Funds
Activity
Alterfin is a Belgian financial cooperative created in 1994 which invests in smallholder farming in developing countries via microfinance institutions, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and producer’s organisations. Alterfin’s goal is to improve the livelihoods and living conditions of socially and economically disadvantaged people and communities, predominantly in rural areas in low and middle-income countries.
Active in 31 countries with 5 regional offices, Alterfin has currently a 55% exposure of its portfolio in Latin America, 21% in Africa and 23% in Asia. Alterfin is particularly committed to finance the “missing middle” by offering smaller loans on shorter terms.
Technical Assistance
Upgrading and Implementing an Environmental and Social Management System
Having a well-functioning and upgraded ESMS in line with BIO standards, including the procedures and practical tools that ensure integration of E&S management in the existing credit procedure and risk management system
Expected impact
- Every credit transaction will be screened through an efficient E&S management system. It will improve the E&S risk mitigation and will provide guidance to improve E&S practices of Alterfin’s portfolio companies.
- It could also reduce reputational risks by identifiying potential E&S failure before realizing the investment into the company.
- Furthermore, the TA project aims to provide Alterfin an understanding of the business-case of E&S management, and that they receive training on how to apply the E&S procedures and tools throughout the investment cycle
Portfolio 2021 Q4
Read impact and news about this project
EDFI AgriFI and BIO contract €6M with Alterfin
17-08-2020
EDFI AgriFI and BIO each commit to finance the equivalent of EUR 3 million in USD to reinforce Alterfin’s sustainable agriculture and microfinance portfolios. The combined investment will provide Alterfin with long-term financing to support its expansion in Africa, Latin-America and Asia. The financing from BIO will likely also be accompanied by technical assistance, a first for Alterfin.
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