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Climate Finance for the Urban Poor: A Review of Global Climate Funds

Climate Finance for the Urban Poor: A Review of Global Climate Funds

Year Published

2024

Contributing Organizations

Cities Alliance
United Nations Office for Partnership (UNOP)

Type of Resource

Research/Insights Report

Languages

English

Relevant Topics

Core Topic
Just Transition
Topic 2
Climate Finance Ecosystem

Target Audience

Governments & Policymakers
Philanthropies
Education Providers / Think Tanks / NGOs
MDBs/DFIs

Relevant Geography

Global
Climate Finance for the Urban Poor: A Review of Global Climate Funds

Resource Description

This resource reviews 3,428 projects funded by 22 global climate funds (2003–2023) to assess how much finance targets the urban poor. It analyzes funding trends, project focus, and barriers, and offers recommendations for better inclusion.

Why This Matters

Despite high vulnerability, the urban poor receive minimal climate finance. Better targeting is essential for equitable, locally led climate resilience.

Key Insights

  • Only 74 projects (21%) target the urban poor, representing just 35% (USD 12 billion) of total funding
  • Most funding is concentrated in Sub-Saharan Africa and East Asia; South Asia is underfunded
  • Adaptation dominates by project count, but dual-focus projects receive most funding
  • Most projects are small-scale; large projects and blended finance are rare
  • Barriers include lack of data, limited project targeting, and inaccessible funding for local actors
  • Recommends clearer targeting of urban poor, local access to funds, and stronger community involvement

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