Learn about the Climate Venture Scaler, a UNDP programme supporting climate-focused enterprises in Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia through investment readiness, mentorship and investor matchmaking.
Climate Venture Scaler: The UNDP Initiative Helping Climate Enterprises Scale Impact Across Southeast Asia
The Climate Venture Scaler is a leading UNDP initiative under the Climate Finance Network, developed in partnership with Impact Investment Exchange (IIX). The programme supports high-potential climate ventures in Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia, helping them strengthen their business models, become investment-ready, and access direct investor connections.
By focusing on climate mitigation, climate adaptation and green innovation, the Climate Venture Scaler contributes to resilient development, gender equality and inclusive economic growth across the region. The aim is to expand a pipeline of investable climate solutions that deliver measurable environmental and social impact.
To explore similar UNDP initiatives, you can browse the official UNDP Asia-Pacific Projects page:
https://www.undp.org/asia-pacific/projects
What Is the Climate Venture Scaler?
The Climate Venture Scaler fills a critical gap in the climate finance ecosystem. While many early-stage ventures receive grants or incubator support, growth-stage enterprises often struggle to access the institutional capital needed to expand. With adaptation financing needs exceeding USD 310 billion per year, strengthening the investment readiness of SMEs is essential to unlock climate solutions at scale.
This programme provides tailored technical assistance, helping companies operating in sectors such as:
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Renewable energy
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Energy efficiency
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Climate-smart agriculture
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Urban resilience and green infrastructure
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Climate technology and digital solutions
Who Can Apply to the Climate Venture Scaler?
The programme is open to growth-stage SMEs that meet the following requirements:
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Operate primarily in Cambodia, Laos or Malaysia
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Are for-profit enterprises contributing to climate adaptation or mitigation
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Have a clear pathway to scale and profitability
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Demonstrate quantifiable environmental and social impact
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Are planning to raise investment within the next 1–2 years
Why the Climate Venture Scaler Matters
1. Addressing Financing Gaps for Climate Ventures
Many promising ventures face challenges securing mid-stage capital. The Climate Venture Scaler helps bridge this gap by preparing SMEs to engage confidently with investors.
2. Regional Focus and International Reach
By targeting enterprises in Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia while connecting them to regional and global investors, the programme accelerates the adoption of climate solutions beyond national borders.
3. Advancing Jobs, Resilience and Gender Equality
Supporting scalable climate ventures leads to new green jobs, stronger community resilience and progress toward gender-inclusive development.
Learn more about UNDP’s climate finance work here:
https://www.undp.org/climate
Programme Objectives
The Climate Venture Scaler aims to:
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Build a pipeline of strong climate ventures in Southeast Asia
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Deliver mentorship on investment readiness and impact management
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Facilitate investment engagement and commitments
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Strengthen the impact investment ecosystem across the region
The Climate Venture Scaler Journey
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Submit Your Application
Share your enterprise’s mission, climate impact and investment needs. -
Shortlisting of the Top 20 Enterprises
Selected SMEs will receive tailored mentorship. -
Investment Readiness Support
Strengthen your business model, financial structure and impact measurement. -
Investor Matchmaking Sessions
Engage directly with regional and international investors. -
Scaling Impact
Secure investment and expand your climate venture across the region.
Roadshows and Engagement Events
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Laos Roadshow
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Cambodia Roadshow
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Malaysia Roadshow
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Online Webinars
These events help enterprises deepen their understanding of investor expectations and regional climate finance priorities.
Deadline and How to Apply
Application Deadline: 12 January 2026
Apply Here!
Early applications are encouraged, as screening takes place on a rolling basis.
FAQs
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Participation in the programme is free of charge.
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The initiative is implemented by UNDP’s Climate Finance Network with support from the UK, Sweden and Norway.
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This is not a traditional accelerator, but a specialised investment-readiness programme.
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Twenty enterprises will be selected for the mentorship phase.
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Investment is not guaranteed but the programme significantly increases opportunities for raising capital.
Final Note
For more international career opportunities, visit Opportunities For Youth.
