UNDP, IIX Partner to Boost Women-Focused Finance

United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Impact Investment Exchange (IIX) have signed a memorandum of understanding to promote gender-inclusive sustainable finance in Bangladesh, aiming to expand funding for women-led enterprises and underserved communities.

Under the agreement, the two organisations will work to develop innovative financial instruments known as “Orange Bonds,” designed to channel private investment into businesses and projects that empower women while ensuring transparency, accountability and measurable development outcomes.

The collaboration will include research, policy dialogue, stakeholder engagement and technical support for potential bond issuers. It will also strengthen monitoring and reporting systems to ensure investments deliver tangible social and economic impact.

UNDP Bangladesh Resident Representative Stefan Liller said mobilising capital for gender equality and climate resilience requires strong market structures, informed policymaking and trusted partnerships. He noted that the initiative combines UNDP’s policy expertise and local presence with global innovations in sustainable finance.

IIX, which developed the Orange Bond Principles, brings experience in gender-focused investing, bond structuring, independent verification and impact measurement. The initiative aligns with global efforts to advance gender equality while supporting climate action and sustainable development.

IIX Founder and CEO Prof Durreen Shahnaz said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Bangladesh’s impact investment ecosystem through collaboration with public, private and civil society stakeholders.

As Bangladesh prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country status, concessional financing and trade benefits are expected to decline. Strengthening capital markets and introducing innovative financing tools will therefore be crucial to sustaining growth while ensuring development remains inclusive.

The partnership underscores a joint effort to build a transparent, resilient and forward-looking financial system capable of supporting long-term development priorities, particularly for women and marginalised communities.