As part of the “EmPower: Women for Climate- Resilient Societies Programme Phase II (2023-2027)”, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Entity on Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women (UN Women) are partnering with regional and/or local financial institutions in target countries (Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines and Viet Nam). The EmPower Programme offers grants and/or technical assistance to financial institutions to develop clean technology loans with low interest rates and/or without collateral requirements. The loans are designed for micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) led or owned by women or targeting women as beneficiaries. This approach enhances access to financial services for women and other marginalized groups. It contributes to a gender just energy transition and higher climate resilience in line with the principle of leaving no one behind.
This guidance note explains how financial institutions can apply an environmental, social and governance (ESG) assessment tailored to women’s MSMEs as part of the application process for clean technology loans.
Source: UNWomen
