ADI Releases 2025 Impact Study on Blended Finance and Technical Assistance in the Indo-Pacific
Key takeaways:
- ADI-supported SMEs reached 28.9 million individuals, including 1.46 million micro-entrepreneurs
- 77% of SMEs met 2X Challenge criteria, with women holding 26% of board roles across the portfolio
- 6 MW of solar capacity was added, with 110,608 tCO₂e in avoided emissions reported
Australian Development Investments (ADI) has released its 2025 Impact Study, prepared by Alinea International, examining how blended finance and targeted technical assistance can help businesses grow sustainably and contribute to development outcomes across the Indo-Pacific.
As Australia’s AUD $250 million impact fund-of-funds, ADI was established to mobilise private capital into small and medium-sized businesses that support inclusive growth, gender equality, and climate resilience throughout the region.
The study draws on evidence from across ADI’s portfolio and explores the role that catalytic capital, combined with practical support, can play in strengthening both fund managers and SMEs. Findings from the report point to tangible outcomes, including stronger businesses, expanded access to essential services, increased economic opportunities for women, and early progress on climate-related challenges.
The report also highlights an important reality: finance alone is often not enough. Tailored support in areas such as gender integration, ESG practices, governance, and climate systems can help businesses and fund managers strengthen operations, improve resilience, and build long-term sustainability.
At the same time, the study acknowledges that meaningful progress requires ongoing effort and collaboration. Advancing inclusive and climate-focused growth across emerging markets remains a long-term process that depends on strong local partnerships, continued learning, and the active participation of investors, fund managers, SMEs, and technical assistance providers.
Overall, the report presents ADI’s blended finance approach as one model for how development finance can help mobilise private investment while supporting broader economic and social outcomes across the Indo-Pacific.