SIFEM

SIFEM is the Swiss Development Finance Institution, established in 2011 as a private limited company fully owned by the Swiss government. It is an integral part of Switzerland’s International Cooperation Strategy, providing long-term financing through local financial intermediaries to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and other fast-growing companies in developing countries. The institution aims to reduce poverty and foster sustainable, inclusive, and resilient economies by creating and securing quality jobs and supporting projects towards a just transition. SIFEM is committed to aligning its investments with international environmental goals to address the global climate crisis and support emerging markets in achieving low-carbon economic growth.

SIFEM's investment strategy focuses on sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, renewable energies, and financial services. It operates across regions including Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe, targeting countries with developing and emerging economies. The institution's investments are designed to tackle the root causes of climate change and enhance preparedness for its impacts, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In 2024, SIFEM achieved a record investment volume of USD 173 million, supporting over 600 companies across more than 75 countries. The investments helped create and maintain 11,500 jobs, with 23% allocated to climate-related projects and 46% supporting women's economic empowerment. This performance underscores SIFEM's growing role in development finance and its commitment to fostering positive change in emerging markets.