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865-0006-00L 3 Credits MSC , WBZ , NDS D-GESS

Leveraging Private Impact Investors in Development Cooperation

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Christopher Humphrey
Only for MAS/CAS in Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development students, as well as specialists with at least 24 months of practical experience in international cooperation. ETH doctoral students working on topics related to poverty reduction in low- and middle income countries may also be admitted. Registration only through the NADEL homepage.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-03 00:14:09

Abstract

This five-day course demystifies impact investing for people working in development cooperation. The course provides an introduction to understanding the terminology and instruments involved in impact investing and evaluating opportunities and trade-offs for development.

Objective

This five-day course demystifies impact investing for people working in development cooperation. Impact investing—the idea that it is possible to “do good” as well as make money with certain types of investment—is changing the landscape of development cooperation. Impact investing is growing rapidly and development agencies and non-governmental organizations increasingly seek to leverage private investor resources. But many development actors are not accustomed to working with private investors, and are uneasy about their profit motivation and modes of operation. The course provides an introduction to the terminology and instruments involved in impact investing and evaluates developmental opportunities and trade-offs.

Content

Key topics - Defining impact investing and understanding its importance for development - Different types of impact investor and their incentives - Overview of instruments such as loans, equity investments, syndication and impact bonds - How to define and measure “impact” - Techniques used by development agencies to leverage private investor resources - Considering what impact investing can and cannot achieve for development goals

General Information

Language
English
Levels
MSC , WBZ , NDS
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
ungraded semester performance

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture with exercise Leveraging Private Impact Investors in Development Cooperation
Course dates: 02.03.2026 – 06.03.2026 Location: CLD A1
No time listed 40 h semesterly

Offered In