Publications: SME Ventures

Oct 7, 2019

Jobs Study: The Central Africa SME Fund, Democratic Republic of Congo

This study gives insight into the employment effects of CASF’s investments in SMEs in the fragile state context of the DRC. The study is based on a sample of 11 portfolio SMEs located in Kinshasa. Results have been obtained by combining data from the fund’s management information system (MIS), interviews, and statistical databases.

Mar 7, 2019

Report: Moving Toward Gender Balance in Private Equity and Venture Capital

The study explores the link between financial returns and gender diversity; the lack of women in the industry; and steps needed to achieve gender balance. One of the key findings of the report is that private equity and venture capital funds with gender-balanced senior investment teams generated 10 percent to 20 percent higher returns compared with funds that have a majority of male or female leaders.

English | 137 pages | 2019 IFC

Nov 30, 2018

Private Equity and Venture Capital's Role in Catalyzing Sustainable Investment

The report suggests several specific options to increase the role of private equity and venture capital funds in mobilizing sustainable finance, including the establishment of incubators/accelerators for sustainable startups, among other suggestions.

50 pages | © November 2018 IFC | Complimentary

Nov 27, 2018

IFC SME Ventures: Investing in Private Equity in Sub-Saharan African Fragile and Conflict-Affected Situations

This report, researched in partnership with CrossBoundary LLC, highlights the critical success factors when investing in fragile states, as well as existing innovations being developed by current investors. While the challenges of investing in FCS are well known, the most effective approaches and factors required for success are still being explored.

English | 68 pages | 2018 IFC