SIMA’s work focuses on innovation and field-building. We have developed some of the most sophisticated funds while also contributing to industry development and bringing people together. We are innovative not only in our funds but also in how we manage SIMA by introducing a unique business model that empowers a new generation of impact asset managers. By pioneering strategic initiatives and fostering a culture of transparency and innovation, we stand at the forefront of making investments that promise not only financial returns but also tangible, positive social and environmental impact across communities worldwide. This journey marks our commitment to driving change and setting new benchmarks within the impact investment industry.
Introducing The Code of Conduct for the Off-Grid Solar Sector
Initiated by the Off-grid Solar Fund I, SIMA developed the first Code of Conduct for the Off-Grid Solar Sector, advocating for integrity and sustainability within the industry. It reflects not only our dedication to ethical investment practices but has also inspired entities like the GOGLA association to later adopt it. This initiative demonstrates that true impact investment involves the adoption of ethical practices contributing to sustainability across the sector.
Organizing The Kitchen Table Gathering for Collaborative Impact
SIMA organized the Kitchen Table Gathering, held in The Hague from April 3 to 5, 2023, to address the challenges of the off-grid solar sector. By bringing together key stakeholders for deep, collaborative discussions, this event aimed to unlock the industry’s vast potential. It served as a platform for critical dialogue, moving beyond traditional conversations to forge actionable solutions for the obstacles hindering the sector’s growth. This gathering underscores our dedication to catalyzing social and environmental change through collective action.
Improving Clean Energy Access Through SIMA's Off-Grid Solar Fund
In 2017, SIMA launched the Off-Grid Solar and Financial Access Senior Debt Fund I, B.V., the largest off-grid solar fund at the time, with a total size of $90M. It aimed to provide senior debt to off-grid solar companies, microfinance institutions, and manufacturers, significantly impacting the sector. With 22 investors, the fund disbursed $150M across 35 companies in 13 countries, notably improving clean energy access for millions and contributing to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. This initiative also pioneered ethical standards, promoting the adoption of a Code of Conduct within the off-grid solar sector.
Launching the Energy Access Relief Fund during COVID-19
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, SIMA launched the Energy Access Relief Fund in 2020, becoming the first energy access fund to address the crisis. With a total size of $90M, it has disbursed $56M to 75 companies across 17 countries, prioritizing support for women-led companies and small to mid-sized energy access firms facing liquidity challenges. This fund highlights SIMA’s commitment to ensuring the continuity of energy access during challenging times, with a significant focus on gender lens investing, qualifying for the 2X Challenge.
Launching SIMA's Commercial & Industrial Solar Green Bond for Africa
SIMA Funds has launched the $153M Commercial and Industrial Solar Green Bond, raising $131 million to support small and mid-sized solar developers in Africa. It is expected to be one of the largest impact-driven funds exclusively focused on advancing the C&I solar landscape in Africa. The bond offers short-term corporate and longer-term financing up to 10 years, targeting projects under 5MW in sectors like manufacturing and healthcare. It has been assigned the highest rating for sustainability by Moody’s. With a focus on measurable ESG impacts, this initiative is set to significantly reduce carbon emissions while creating productive jobs, especially in lower-income countries.
Introducing Asaan Ghar Finance – Affordable Mortgage Fintech in Pakistan
SIMA Funds introduced Asaan Ghar Finance Limited in Pakistan, pioneering the first fintech affordable mortgage company in the country. Asaan Ghar is distinguished by its commitment to offering Islamic home financing solutions tailored specifically for the middle class to help them achieve their dream of homeownership. The company provides a wide range of products, including home purchase, construction, renovation, and balance transfer facilities, with features such as up to 85% financing, long tenures, fast approval processes, and personalized customer service, ensuring a transformative approach to home financing.
Launching Sow Good Investments – A Crowdlending Platform in the US
SIMA Funds is in the process of launching Sow Good Investments, poised to become the first crowdlending platform that allows retail U.S. investors to engage in international impact investment opportunities. This innovative platform is designed to offer attractive financial returns while contributing to meaningful global change, reflecting SIMA’s commitment to expanding accessible, impactful investment avenues to a broader audience.
Through pioneering initiatives and innovative funds, SIMA has undeniably carved a niche in the impact investment landscape, embodying innovation and ethical practices. As we continue to move forward in our journey, our mission remains steadfast: to harness the potential of impact investing to create exemplary financial, social, and environmental change, while improving the lives of our ultimate customers at the Bottom of the Pyramid.