What is Symbiotics?
Symbiotics is the leading market access platform for impact investing, focusing on private markets in emerging and frontier economies. Since 2005, it has been dedicated to offering investment, asset management, and capacity building services that truly make a difference. The group’s approach is all about connecting capital with opportunities that drive sustainable growth and financial inclusion in regions that need it most.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
Symbiotics’ impact is impressive and speaks volumes:
- Originated over 8,200 investments representing more than USD 10.5 billion
- Supported 608 companies across 99 countries
- Manages an aggregate portfolio of USD 2.5 billion spread across 19 funds and mandates
- Portfolio companies have benefited from over 170 technical assistance projects worth more than USD 19 million
These numbers highlight not just scale, but the depth of commitment to sustainable finance and microfinance in emerging and frontier markets.
Driving Financial Inclusion in Côte d’Ivoire
One standout example is Symbiotics’ USD 3.5 million investment in Djamo’s digital solutions. This loan agreement is a game-changer for financial inclusion in Côte d’Ivoire, helping to bring more people into the formal financial system through innovative digital tools. It’s a perfect example of how targeted investments can create real, tangible change on the ground.
Climate Finance and Sustainable Initiatives
Symbiotics is also deeply involved in climate finance, tapping into market opportunities that align with sustainable development goals. From partnering with Habitat for Humanity International to accelerate affordable and inclusive housing finance, to launching climate and health investment platforms with HIEx, the group is pushing the envelope on green and social impact investments.
Supporting Agriculture and Green Bonds
Innovation in agriculture is another key focus. For instance, Symbiotics provided a USD 5 million debt investment to Complete Farmer, aiming to boost productivity in Ghana’s agricultural value chain. Plus, their partnership with Nam A Bank on green facility investments in Vietnam shows a clear commitment to GSS bonds (Green, Social, and Sustainability bonds), which are vital for sustainable finance in emerging markets.
Project Impact: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 1: No Poverty
- SDG 2: Zero Hunger
- SDG 5: Gender Equality
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13: Climate Action
Capacity Building and Learning Journeys
Beyond investments, Symbiotics invests in people and knowledge. Their exclusive Learning Journey programs in Kenya and Uganda offer hands-on capacity building, empowering local stakeholders to scale impact. It’s not just about money—it’s about creating ecosystems where sustainable finance and impact investing can thrive long-term.
