Sustineri Partners and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) have signed a cooperation agreement aimed at advancing sustainability initiatives across the Western Balkans. The collaboration will focus on the delivery of sustainable finance projects, capacity building, the creation of an enabling environment for responsible investment, support for the ESG Adria Summit 2024, and the implementation of regional gender empowerment programmes.
“This marks a significant milestone for Sustineri Partners as we join forces with the IFC to accelerate sustainable development in the Western Balkans through this important cooperation,” said Biljana Braithwaite, Founder and CEO of Sustineri Partners. “We greatly value this opportunity and are confident that, with the benefit of IFC’s global expertise and internationally recognised programmes, we can contribute meaningfully to embedding sustainability in the region. This includes the integration of ESG standards and policies in businesses, enhancing the region’s attractiveness to foreign investment, expanding trade, and facilitating greater participation in the EU and global markets.”
The ESG Adria Summit – one of Sustineri Partners’ flagship initiatives – is dedicated to advancing sustainability across the Western Balkans and Adria region.
“We are grateful to the IFC team for recognising the Summit’s growing impact, particularly in the field of sustainable finance. We believe that through joint initiatives, targeted capacity-building, and practical project support, we can help shift investment towards stronger ESG alignment. This includes supporting businesses to embed ESG in their strategies, explore innovative financial instruments, and understand the implications for access to capital,” Braithwaite added.
“Strong ESG practices enable businesses and communities to better manage risks and safeguard livelihoods. They also support broader market access, cost efficiencies, and improved stakeholder relations,” said Nicolas Marquier, IFC Regional Manager for the Western Balkans. “We are pleased to partner with Sustineri Partners in promoting best practice ESG standards and contributing to the region’s sustainable growth.”
IFC delivers its Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Advisory Services Programme in Europe in partnership with the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO).
