ImpactAlpha, November 10 – Not enough relief financing is getting to small businesses in emerging markets. Zurich-based impact investor BlueOrchard has raised $140 million invest in microfinance and small business finance organizations with the aim of preserving 200 million jobs, particularly at businesses owned by or employing women.
The fund is backed by development finance institutions in the U.K. (CDC), U.S. (DFC) and Japan (Japan International Cooperation Agency). Switzerland’s SECO is providing technical assistance capital.
BlueOrchard is looking to raise $350 million and invest in 20 emerging market financial intermediaries.
Earlier this year, BlueOrchard backed the International Finance Corp.’s COVID relief bond to support emerging markets’ pandemic preparedness and response.
