INVEST Year 4 Quarter 3 Report

INVEST works with the private sector to mobilize private capital for development and is a key mechanism that USAID uses to engage the private sector. The program is fast and flexible, responding with tailored approaches to USAID and market needs. INVEST fosters operational and technical innovation for better development outcomes and impact across various sectors. INVEST has engaged over 85 partner firms to develop and implement activities, including transaction advisory services to close investment deals and catalytic funding for asset holders to leverage USAID resources and mobilize capital for development. The program has mobilized $49 million in capital, with 80 transactions actively supported transactions and $219 million in additional capital sought. INVEST has also provided transaction advisory services to facilitate transaction closes that increase trade and investment between the U.S. and Africa. The USAID Finance and Investment Network engages new and underutilized partners to leverage USAID resources and solve challenges with market-driven solutions and innovations. The network gives USAID on-demand access to niche expertise necessary for solving the world's toughest challenges. INVEST has a network of over 400 partner firms from the investment and development community, with expertise across various sectors. The program has also built the capacity of private sector firms and small organizations to work with USAID through the USAID procurement and subcontracting process. INVEST has published 13 learning blogs and five "Voices from the USAID Finance and Investment Network" interviews, sharing lessons learned in promoting gender-lens investing practices, engaging the private sector in public goods, and mobilizing institutional investors. The program's learning strategy captures, synthesizes, and disseminates knowledge to address objectives and improve future applications. INVEST has also launched the FINsights- Mobilizing Investment for Development Webinar Series, featuring members of the USAID Finance and Investment Network. The webinars encourage partners to work together to synthesize insights and share evidence derived from practical experience.