Gaia Impact, in partnership with Capital Croissance, Schneider Electric, Capelan, and Investisseurs & Partenaires (I&P), has reached the first closing target of €40 million for the Gaia Energy Impact Fund II (GEIF II). This fund, aligned with stringent impact criteria, will finance startups and SMEs across the decentralized renewable energy value chain. GEIF II aims to invest in approximately twenty companies, with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa, providing improved energy access, job creation, and significant CO2 emissions reduction.
Key Points:
- Gaia Impact, in collaboration with key partners, has achieved the first closing of €40 million for the Gaia Energy Impact Fund II (GEIF II).
- GEIF II will support startups and SMEs operating in decentralized renewable energy, with a strong emphasis on impact and sustainability.
- The fund aims to invest in around twenty companies, with approximately 85% of them active in Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to improved energy access.
- GEIF II’s investments are expected to create employment opportunities, reduce CO2 emissions, and enhance socio-economic development in target regions.
- Schneider Electric and I&P will provide expertise and support in their respective areas to maximize the impact of investments.
Analysis: The achievement of the first closing for the Gaia Energy Impact Fund II (GEIF II) is a significant milestone in advancing sustainable energy solutions in Africa. This fund, focusing on startups and SMEs in decentralized renewable energy, exemplifies a commitment to both financial returns and meaningful impact. By targeting Sub-Saharan Africa, GEIF II addresses critical energy access challenges in the region, offering a catalyst for socio-economic growth. The involvement of strategic partners, including Schneider Electric and I&P, highlights the collaborative effort to drive positive change. This initiative reflects a promising step towards a more sustainable and inclusive energy future for Africa.
