The Global Capacity Building Coalition (GCBC) took centre stage as Simon Thompson provided a detailed overview of its mission, membership, and ambitious plans. Established under India’s G20 presidency, the GCBC is a broad-based alliance aiming to strengthen climate finance capacity, particularly in emerging markets. In just three months since its official launch, the coalition has grown to encompass around 5,000 public and private financial institutions, 160 financial centres and exchanges, and millions of finance professionals worldwide.
This diverse alliance, including UN agencies, multilateral development banks, philanthropies, and both public and private sector finance bodies, is focused on identifying the most effective approaches to capacity building. Its goal is to channel funding from MDBs and philanthropic entities into strategies that will accelerate climate finance. Simon emphasised that the GCBC’s work will blend both “high-tech” solutions—like a new global capacity building platform—with “high-touch” activities, such as regional forums and on-the-ground collaborations.
Demonstrating the Digital Platform – Clementine Le Nagard
Clementine Le Nagard then introduced the GCBC’s beta online platform, now accessible in six UN languages, including Arabic and Bahasa Indonesian. The platform is structured into three main sections:
- Knowledge Hub: A curated repository of reports, frameworks, and webinars searchable by topic, resource type, and geography.
- Case Study Map: A global showcase of real-world examples of capacity building and climate finance initiatives, enabling users to explore strategies relevant to their region or sector.
- Events Calendar: A regularly updated listing of upcoming conferences, workshops, and forums that support ongoing engagement and learning.
During the live demo, Clementine encouraged attendees to test the platform’s features and provide feedback. She made it clear that this is a living resource intended to evolve in response to user input and the changing needs of the climate finance landscape.
Looking Ahead: Involvement and Input
In closing, Simon Thompson invited finance professionals, educators, and capacity building providers alike to explore the platform, share their insights, and consider deepening their involvement with the GCBC’s efforts. The demonstration and overview reinforced the GCBC’s commitment to collaboration, transparency, and innovation in building the capacity needed to scale climate finance, especially in regions that need it most.
Key Takeaways
- Global Coalition with Local Impact: The GCBC’s rapidly growing membership highlights a collective effort to strengthen climate finance capacity worldwide.
- High-Tech, High-Touch Approach: Digital platforms are complemented by in-person forums, ensuring both scalability and contextual understanding.
- User-Driven Enhancement: The beta platform welcomes feedback from users to refine and improve its resources and functionalities.
- Knowledge, Case Studies, and Events: The platform’s integrated structure ensures stakeholders can access information, learn from global examples, and stay engaged with upcoming opportunities.
The GCBC’s presentation underscored a forward-looking vision: to create an ecosystem where knowledge, tools, and collaborations can effectively advance climate finance and support sustainable development goals, particularly in emerging markets.