NextBillion - An Initiative of the William Davidson Institute at the University of Michigan

The global ethical finance industry constitutes approximately USD 22.89 trillion worth of assets under management, an increase of 25% from 2014. However, this is seen in institutions and assets within developed markets.

Ethical finance is on track to developing its global value proposition. However, catalyzing the wider adoption requires concerted efforts to build meaningful dialogue between the two main areas of ethical finance: one segment that integrates environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors, and Islamic finance which is expected to rise from USD 2 trillion to USD 3.5 trillion by 2021.

There is a unique opportunity for ethical finance players in developed markets to connect with the Islamic/faith-based financial sector which enjoys a strong foothold in Muslim-majority emerging markets.

The 2017 AFI Global Policy Forum (GPF) will take place from 13-15 September at the International Congress Center in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt and will be the showcase of the unique financial inclusion initiatives undertaken by members in the Arab region. It is expected to be the largest and most comprehensive event ever held by AFI.

The Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI) organizes the Global Policy Forum (GPF) as the keystone event for its members. Ever year, the event is co-hosted by a different member institution in a different region of the world.

AFI has more than 100 member institutions representing over 90 nations across the globe, making the GPF the most important and comprehensive forum for regulatory institutions with an interest in the promotion of financial inclusion policy. The forum is focused on the development and improvement of national financial inclusion strategies and policies, and is used as a platform for senior financial regulators to exchange ideas and engage in peer-to-peer learning activities.

By 2050, the world needs to produce 60% more food to meet the rising global demand. We believe that innovation and technology is the key to achieving a food secure future.

For the Tech4Farmers Asia Challenge 2.0, we are looking for applicants that are transforming the lives of farmers through new technology and innovative practices in South and Southeast Asia’s emerging markets with a focus on Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Nepal. In addition, we are looking for enterprises that match market driven approaches with cutting edge business models and technology. Please note that we will only accept enterprises that have a working prototype or minimum viable product that can benefit from R&D testing as well as business and marketing services.

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