UK-backed climate finance accelerator selects 11 Pakistani firms for 2026 Investment Programme

ISLAMABAD: Eleven Pakistani businesses have been selected for the 2026 cohort of the Climate Finance Accelerator (CFA) Pakistan, a United Kingdom-funded initiative designed to help climate-focused enterprises attract investment and scale innovative solutions that contribute to Pakistan’s transition towards a low-carbon economy.

The programme, which forms part of the UK’s broader support for climate resilience, green growth and private-sector development in Pakistan, has supported more than 230 projects worldwide and facilitated over $500 million in investment globally. In Pakistan alone, it has helped mobilise up to $40 million in climate-related financing.

The selected businesses were chosen for their potential to generate significant environmental impact while advancing sustainable development across key sectors, including renewable energy, transport, waste management and circular economy, agriculture, construction, and financial inclusion.

British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott said Pakistan faces severe climate challenges but also possesses the innovation and entrepreneurial talent needed to drive climate solutions.

“Through the Climate Finance Accelerator, the UK is helping promising Pakistani businesses transform ambitious ideas into investable projects, creating jobs, supporting economic growth and building a cleaner and more resilient future,” she said.

Under the programme, participating businesses will receive up to five months of specialised support from financial, technical, and gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI) experts. The assistance is aimed at strengthening their investment readiness and enhancing their ability to secure funding.

The companies will also present their projects to climate-focused investors during an investment event scheduled for October 2026, providing an opportunity to expand their networks and receive tailored feedback from potential financiers.

Since its launch in Pakistan in 2022, the Climate Finance Accelerator has supported 22 projects in progressing towards commercial investment deals. Previous beneficiaries include Davaam Life, Shams Power, Concept Loop and National Foods.

The businesses selected for the 2026 cohort are Go Seed IT Pvt. Ltd., Biowaste Energy Ventures Pvt. Ltd., Bioenergy Solution Pvt. Ltd., A.S. Enterprises, Trash It, Sahara Recycling Pvt. Ltd., Waste Busters Pvt. Ltd./EnterTech Labs Pvt., EcoEdge AI, Daewoo Pakistan Express Bus Service Limited, Buscaro Technologies Holding PTE Limited and Akhuwat Islamic Microfinance.

CFA Pakistan Team Lead Vardah Malik said the new cohort reflects the growing strength of climate innovation in the country.

“The selected companies represent a dynamic mix of startups and growth-stage enterprises operating in sectors that are critical to Pakistan’s sustainable development and climate transition. Through tailored technical assistance in finance, environmental management and inclusion, we aim to strengthen their investment readiness and help maximise their impact,” she said.

Malik also acknowledged the support of the UK government in creating opportunities for innovative businesses that can simultaneously drive economic growth and climate action across Pakistan.