We are the UK's development finance institution and impact investor, backed by the UK Government.
With over 75 years’ experience, we are a trusted investment partner to businesses in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean. We invest to create productive, sustainable and inclusive economic outcomes for those that need our capital the most and who want to build better lives for themselves and their communities.
We currently partner with over 1,000 businesses, working with our investees to help them succeed and grow impactful businesses.
IMPACT= Seed-stage venture capital: financing the next generation of high-impact start-ups
How can development finance better support the next generation of high-impact start-ups across Africa and Asia?
In the first of three special episodes recorded at the Development Finance Research and Practice Conference, we explore the role of seed-stage venture capital in supporting innovation, entrepreneurship and economic growth in emerging markets.
Host and chair Paddy Carter, Head of Development Economics at British International Investment (BII), is joined by Chirantan Patnaik, Head of Disruptive Ventures at BII, Priya Shah, Founder and General Partner of Theia Ventures, and Francesco Loiacono, Principal Research Economist at the EBRD.
Together, they examine the evidence behind successful seed-stage investing, the challenges faced by early-stage founders, and the role that development finance institutions, venture funds and catalytic capital can play in helping businesses scale and create impact.
Recorded live at the Development Finance Research and Practice Conference, organised by BII and the PEDL programme, this conversation brings together research and practical investment experience to explore how stronger start-up ecosystems can be built across Africa and Asia.
10 Sept 2026
IMPACT = Unlocking sustainable growth in Africa through innovation and investment
Across Africa, innovative businesses are addressing essential needs, creating economic opportunities and building greater resilience for people and communities. But what investment and support do these businesses need to grow, scale and deliver lasting impact?
In this episode, Freddie Tucker of British International Investment is joined by Seema Dhanani of British International Investment, David Longdon of Equator and Benjamin Njenga of Apollo Agriculture. Together, they explore how investment in innovative African businesses can contribute to stronger, more sustainable economies.
The discussion examines opportunities in areas such as energy, agri-tech and financial services, as well as the role of development finance, early-stage capital, local knowledge and partnerships in helping businesses scale. The panellists also consider how commercially viable solutions can expand access, support inclusion and address climate resilience.
4 Aug 2026
IMPACT= Mobilising capital for Asia's climate transition
In our latest episode, leaders from the Monetary Authority of Singapore, ib vogt APAC and BII discuss what’s needed to unlock more private capital for climate investment across South and South-East Asia. Drawing on examples from across the region, they explore the partnerships, funding models and investment solutions helping to scale climate projects.
Who has been a guest on Investing for Impact
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Joan Larrea
Cherie Blair CBE KC
Laurie Spengler
Michael Anderson
Raghuram Talluri
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
1 ratings
Spotify
4.7 / 5
6 ratings
Contact Investing for Impact
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
