Providing advice is a critical part of IFC’s strategy to support transformative private-sector projects in poor and middle-income communities. These services complement IFC’s investments by addressing challenges that companies and industries face and creating conditions that will lead to profitable development and sustainable growth.
IFC’s project preparation and advisory services help our clients remove obstacles to growing private enterprise and build robust commercial sectors. We advise companies on how to break into new markets; find and work with partners; procure funds, improve performance and competitiveness; develop standards and principles; and create pathways to become stronger industrial, social, and environmental participants in their communities.
Unlike other multilateral financial institutions, we offer client companies a range of financing and business advice backed by decades of experience. We increasingly integrate advisory services with investments to improve efficiency and productivity in emerging markets.
Examples of our work
IFC Cement Decarbonization Tool
In the cement sector, we developed a decarbonization tool that helps manufacturers evaluate factors such as alternative fuels, waste-heat recovery, and blended cement usage to devise customized emission mitigation strategies. Likewise in the steel industry, we help companies weigh the cost/benefit of technological and operational upgrades that can help their bottom lines while reducing waste and emissions.
Better Work promotes decent work and competitiveness in the global garment industry. A partnership between IFC and the International Labour Organization (ILO), Better Work unites governments, employers' and workers' organizations, global brands, factory owners and workers to improve working conditions in the global apparel and footwear industry and make the sector more competitive.
Gender Equality and Returns (GEAR)
Gender Equality and Returns (GEAR) is a special initiative of Better Work Bangladesh jointly implemented by IFC and the International Labour Organization (ILO). Piloted in 2016, the initiative has made significant strides in advancing women’s economic potential and improving access to better jobs and opportunities for women.
LEAN Advisory Program
IFC’s LEAN Advisory Program helps manufacturers stay competitive by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools with best practices like LEAN manufacturing. These technologies support predictive maintenance, quality control, and supply chain optimization—enabling companies to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and operate more sustainably. By combining AI-driven solutions with LEAN principles, the program helps clients boost productivity, minimize waste, and adapt to evolving market demands, all while aligning with IFC’s broader financing and development support.
Last updated: December 2025