News and insights

Across emerging markets, millions of women continue to face barriers to accessing finance, growing businesses and participating fully in the economy. Yet we know that when women thrive, economies become stronger, businesses perform better and communities become more resilient. 

The Belgian Investment Company for Developing Countries (BIO) is currently preparing the launch of its second impact fund. To tackle this complex challenge and attract private investors, the institution has entrusted a strategic mission to a group of three final-year students from Vlerick Business School. It is a unique collaboration where academic excellence serves sustainable development.

We are pleased to announce the publication of our 2025 Annual Report—marking a year of strong growth, sharper focus, and deepened impact across our priority markets.

Organised by the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE), the Energy Access Investment Forum (EAIF) 2026 successfully concluded in Nairobi, Kenya, from 21 to 24 April 2026, bringing together more than 800 on‑site participants.

BIO welcomes student club Madiba

On March 24, BIO had the pleasure of bringing together, alongside FIT, AWEX, hub.brussels and Beyond Chocolate, a wide range of actors from the Belgian agri‑food sector for an exchange focused on international opportunities. The late‑afternoon event was marked by collaboration, curiosity, and the shared ambition to build stronger, more sustainable, and better‑connected global value chains.

BIO invests in initiatives that foster the recovery and long‑term resilience of Ukraine’s private sector.

This year, BIO celebrates 25 years of commitment to sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. Since its creation, the Belgian Investment Company for Developing Countries has worked alongside entrepreneurs, financial institutions and partners across the globe to support businesses that generate both economic value and positive social and environmental impact.