Call for participants: research study on the impacts of climate risks on MSME access to finance

Access to finance is crucial to fostering climate resilience and mitigating the impacts of climate change on micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). However, there remains a significant knowledge gap regarding how physical and transition risks influence MSMEs’ access to finance and their connection to financial stability.

To address this gap, AFI, in collaboration with the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) University of London, is launching a study which will assess the impact of physical risks on bank lending to MSMEs in high-risk areas, using bank lending data to analyze the effects of natural disasters on financing conditions.

The study aims to quantify the impact of disasters on bank lending to MSMEs, provide empirical evidence to support the development of policies that enhance MSMEs’ access to transition finance, and generate insights that will guide central banks and regulators in designing inclusive green finance policies.

We need our AFI members’ support to make the project a success, by providing a data set that includes key variables such as firm size, sector, location, loan details, and financial performance indicators.

To express your interest, please contact Laura Ramos, AFI Senior Policy Manager of Inclusive Green Finance, at laura.ramos@afi-global.org. Kindly include the following information:

• Statement of Interest: A brief explanation of your reasons for wanting to participate.
• Team Leader Information: Name and email address of the person who will oversee participation.
• Technical and Expert Staff Details: Names and email addresses of staff who will supply the data set or assist with the research.
• Data Description: Brief description of the data your institution can share for the project.

Please submit your interest by August 31^st, 2024.

Kindly refer to the Terms of Reference for detailed information.