Home » Global

Global

Peer Review on Policy-based Financing in Development Banks

On behalf of KfW, we conducted a peer review to compile and analyse lessons learnt from policy-based financing (PBF) operations of five development banks: AfDB, ADB, AFD, IDB, and the World Bank. The review focused on the sectoral and thematic orientation of PBF portfolios, the types of reforms supported, and the design of disbursement triggers.
Our work included a quantitative portfolio analysis, examination of policy matrices, and interviews with representatives of the peer institutions. Findings were synthesised into a comprehensive report and presentation, outlining global trends and lessons for KfW’s own engagement in policy-based financing.

Financing Food Systems Transformation

Bank and the sustainability think tank TMG to develop a comprehensive conceptual and financial cooperation framework for Food Systems Transformation (FST). The project aims to guide KfW’s strategic engagement within German Development Cooperation and with international partners, helping translate the complex FST agenda into actionable implementation pathways.

Funded by the BMZ the project combines research, peer learning, and strategic design. It began with a kick-off workshop in Rome, followed by a literature and discourse analysis, peer review of 24 organizations -including MDBs, PDBs, private banks, NGOs, and philanthropic actors -and the co-creation of a Financial Cooperation Concept for FST.

To ensure practical applicability, Guidance Documents were developed to support KfW in identifying financing partners, investment opportunities, and instruments for systemic change. These include analyses on potential partners for FST and on investing in land rights as a foundation for transformation. The findings inform both KfW’s FZ Future Process and BMZ’s broader reform agenda, contributing to a stronger, more coherent approach to financing sustainable food systems.

Conceptual Study on Results-based Financing Approaches

To support the expansion of its financial instruments, KfW commissioned a study on results-based financing (RBF) policies and practices of bi- and multilateral development partners. The study examined institutional contexts, design features, appraisal mechanisms, and lessons learnt from existing RBF approaches, where payments are contingent upon verified results rather than inputs or activities.

Our work included analysing donor experiences and guidelines, mapping funders of RBF projects, and compiling findings into a report. The study provided KfW with a structured overview of existing approaches and operational practices to inform future application of results-based financing.

You can read the study here.

Evaluating the Robert Bosch Stiftung’s Global Issues Program 

To assess its Global Issues support area, the Robert Bosch Stiftung commissioned a mid-term evaluation. We reviewed program areas, analysed Theories of Change, and combined surveys, interviews, and portfolio analysis.

The evaluation highlighted ways to refine funding practices, strengthen cross-thematic collaboration, and adapt impact measurement. Our findings helped the foundation align its long-term strategy with evolving global challenges.

Supporting the creation of the Blue Action Fund

To address a global funding gap in marine conservation, we worked with KfW to establish the Blue Action Fund, a trust fund supporting NGOs in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Our role included shaping the strategy, operational framework, and governance structure.

We facilitated stakeholder workshops, developed key manuals, and supported the launch of the first call for proposals. Today, the Fund is a leading platform providing critical financial support for marine and coastal protection worldwide.

➡ Learn more: www.blueactionfund.org

Developing a Toolbox for Remote Management and Monitoring of Development Projects

We advised an international donor on opportunities and risks of remote project management in fragile contexts. To support practical application, we created a toolbox with over 60 good practice examples, strategies for stakeholder engagement, and guidance on technology use.

Developed through broad consultations and participatory workshops, the toolbox equips practitioners with tools to manage projects effectively when travel or on-site monitoring is limited. It is now widely used to ensure successful programming in complex environments.

Supporting Organisational Development of the Nature Trust Alliance (NTA)

We analysed potential synergies among conservation trust funds and developed a shared services model, resulting in the creation of the Nature Trust Alliance. This collaboration reduces administrative costs and allows members to focus on their core mission of biodiversity conservation.

Following NTA’s establishment, we facilitated strategic workshops and co-developed an operational manual with the team. Today, NTA strengthens cooperation among conservation funds, increasing efficiency and collective impact.

Strengthening the Partnership between KfW and UNDP as well as UNICEF

To improve cooperation between KfW and the UN agencies UNICEF and UNDP in supporting children and families in conflict-affected settings, we facilitated the development of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for joint project design and implementation. The goal was to accelerate project preparation, enhance management efficiency, and make collaboration more predictable and effective. We also supported the partners in establishing mechanisms for knowledge exchange and co-creation of innovative approaches, helping both organizations leverage their complementary strengths for greater impact.

Over the course of a year, we worked in an agile and participatory process involving both management and technical teams. The resulting SOP manual outlines the typical project cycle and provides practical guidance for efficient cooperation. It was piloted across several UNICEF and UNDP programmes to test and refine its applicability. Through structured dialogue formats, both in-person and online, we enabled transparent collaboration, joint learning, and a strong results orientation.