White Paper By The World Federation of Development Finance Institutions & Momentus Global
National Development Banks (NDBs) are pivotal yet often overlooked actors in the global development finance ecosystem. With mandates to address national, domestic, and local financing needs, they operate as key drivers of economic development, bridging gaps where private markets fail to deliver.
The World Federation of Development Finance Institutions (WFDFI), as the global focal point for financing development institutions, is uniquely positioned to serve as the collective voice for NDBs from the Emerging Markets and Developing Economies (EMDE), advocating for their critical role in financing the UN SDGs).
WFDFI, representing over 270 member institutions worldwide through its regional associations—ALIDE, ADFIAP, AADFI, ADFIMI, and ELTI—emphasizes the need for a more coordinated approach.
The white paper calls for stronger global representation, enhanced cooperation, and reinforced financing mechanisms to empower NDBs in their mission to drive sustainable development.
“Developing countries need a stronger voice in global finance, and National Development Banks (NDBs) are key to this effort. Yet, they remain underrepresented. As 2030 approaches, WFDFI aims to unify and amplify their voice, ensuring they drive inclusive and sustainable development. Strengthening their influence will unlock new pathways for global progress and a more equitable future.” — Edgardo Alvarez, Secretary General of WFDFI.
With Financing for Development 4 (FfD4) conference coming up in June, the UN has recognized the role of NDBs in their Zero Draft preparatory paper, highlighting how NDBs can strengthen financing in credit market segments where commercial banks are not fully engaged, including in sustainable infrastructure, energy, agriculture, industrialization, energy, agriculture, science, technology and innovation. The report also calls out the need for new regulatory frameworks, expanding the number of NDBs and leveraging resources.
Finance in Common Summit 2025: NDB’s need stronger role in global finance, says WFDFI white paper
Go To Press Release
For more information, please contact:
Eduardo Vásquez
On behalf of WFDFI
evasquez@alide.org
or
Velma McColl
Momentus Global
vmccoll@momentus.global
