The Climate Finance Accelerator (CFA) South Africa has opened its Phase 3 Call for Proposals, inviting climate-focused project developers to apply for tailored technical support aimed at unlocking finance for impactful, low-carbon projects.

The CFA is a global technical assistance programme funded by the UK Government and currently operates across ten countries, including South Africa, Nigeria, Uganda, Egypt, Türkiye, Mexico, and Viet Nam. Its mission is to help countries mobilise the level of climate finance needed to meet the global 1.5°C climate target while supporting inclusive and resilient development.

About CFA South Africa

In South Africa, the CFA brings together project developers, investors, policymakers, and development partners to strengthen collaboration across the climate finance ecosystem. The programme focuses on helping climate mitigation projects become “investment-ready” by improving their structure, financial viability, and alignment with investor expectations.

Beyond climate outcomes, CFA South Africa places strong emphasis on co-benefits such as job creation, social transformation, gender equity, inclusion, and resilience to climate impacts—supporting a just transition to a green economy.

What Support Does the CFA Offer?

While the CFA does not provide direct funding, it offers hands-on, deal-oriented support designed to increase the likelihood of projects securing finance. Selected projects benefit from:

• Investor engagement opportunities
  Access to commercial and concessional investors at national and international levels, helping project developers understand investor requirements and financing pathways.

• Capacity building and expert coaching
  Guidance on project structuring, financial modelling, and risk management, alongside practical support in developing pitch decks, investment materials, and marketing presentations.

• Mentorship and best-practice insights
  Learning directly from finance, climate, and sector specialists on what makes climate projects attractive to investors.

• Gender and social inclusion support
  Assistance in strengthening and communicating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) impacts, including gender equality, social inclusion, and community benefits.

• Networking and visibility
  Engagement with government agencies, development banks, financial institutions, and fellow project developers, increasing exposure and long-term collaboration opportunities.

Application Timeline

• Applications open: 09 October 2023

• Application deadline: 17 November 2023

Interested applicants are required to complete and submit the official application form within the stated timeline.