On September 25th, 2025, ILX hosted the ILX Forum at Move in Amsterdam, convening over 200 global stakeholders to address one of the most urgent challenges in development finance: mobilising private capital to achieve sustainable and climate goals in Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDEs).
A Pension Fund Perspective
The forum kicked off with a keynote from Harmen van Wijnen, Chairman of ABP, Europe’s largest pension fund. He delivered a compelling message on the evolving role of institutional investors in a world marked by geopolitical instability and climate urgency. ABP’s impact investing strategy, introduced in 2023, positions Emerging Market Private Debt as a strategic asset class—one that delivers both financial returns and measurable societal impact. Through b-loans originated by MDBs and DFIs, ABP is able to invest in SDG-aligned projects with strong diversification and reduced volatility.
Harmen also emphasised the broader implications of this investment approach. He noted that by engaging with MDBs and DFIs, pension funds like ABP are not only accessing stable returns but also contributing to systemic change in global finance. These partnerships foster transparency, embed ESG principles, and encourage policy dialogue—creating a feedback loop that strengthens both financial markets and development outcomes. His message was clear: institutional investors have the tools and responsibility to lead the way in scaling sustainable finance.
The Future of Development Finance
A dynamic conversation between Hans Peter Lankes (ODI Global) and Kevin Nijrani (IFC) explored the future of development finance. With MDBs and DFIs evolving to mobilise private capital, innovations such as Synthetic Risk Transfer instruments and securitisation structures are expanding the reach of institutional investors into EMDEs. IFC’s collaboration with platforms like ILX is helping bridge the gap between global capital and local impact.
The ILX Journey
ILX CEO Manfred Schepers and Head of Sustainability Luz Martinez presented the organisation’s growth since inception. With $1.7 billion under management and investments in 64 projects across 29 countries, ILX has proven the viability of development finance as an asset class. The portfolio spans sectors from renewable energy to inclusive finance, supporting over 54,000 jobs and avoiding nearly 4 million tonnes of CO₂ annually.
Sigrid Kaag: A Call to Scale
Former Dutch Deputy Prime Minister Sigrid Kaag delivered a compelling address, advocating for a new compact between governments, MDBs, and institutional investors. She highlighted ILX as a model for scalable public-private partnerships and called for greater investment in social infrastructure, particularly education, as a strategic asset for inclusive growth.
MDBs and DFIs: Anchors of Mobilisation
A panel featuring leaders from ADB, AfDB, DEG, EBRD, FMO, IDBi, and IFC showcased how MDBs and DFIs are central to mobilising private capital. With ILX as a trusted co-investment partner, these institutions are expanding their reach, mitigating risk, and structuring impactful transactions across EMDEs.
Investors’ Perspective: Unlocking EMDE Potential
Institutional investors from ABP, Achmea IM, BlackRock, Folksam, PGB, and PGGM shared insights on investing in EMDE private credit. While allocations remain modest, appetite is growing. Panellists emphasised the need for scalable structures, better data, and strong partnerships with MDBs to overcome barriers such as liquidity constraints and perceived risk.
Impact in Action: Voices from the ILX Portfolio
The final panel highlighted real-world impact through ILX’s portfolio companies. Representatives from TBC Bank, Khan Bank, SAFCO Ventures, and ADB shared how ILX financing supports digital transformation, sustainability, and innovation in frontier markets. These partnerships exemplify how institutional capital can drive inclusive growth and climate resilience.
Conclusion: A Platform for Action
The ILX Forum 2025 affirmed that development finance is not only investable but essential. With the right tools, partners, and ambition, institutional investors can scale impact and returns in EMDEs. ILX continues to lead this transformation, proving that sustainable investment is both a strategic and moral imperative.
