2nd Asia Pipeline Exchange Highlights Climate Finance Collaboration Opportunities

March 30, 2026

The second edition of the Asia Pipeline Exchange Roundtable, held on 24 February, convened nine project preparation facilities (PPFs) and advisory organizations to strengthen collaboration on climate-resilient and sustainable projects. Organized by ADB–CDIA and the Cities Climate Finance Leadership Alliance (CCFLA), the session underscored the importance of coordination among PPFs to accelerate climate finance in cities. 

Beatrice Orante of the C40 Cities Finance Facility (CFF) delivered a spotlight presentation on their city selection process, with Phase 4 Call for Proposals attracting 19 applications from Asia, covering energy, mobility, waste management, and adaptation projects. Ultimately, the cities of Belo Horizonte (Brazil), São Paolo (Brazil), Cartagena (Colombia), Rabat (Morocco), and Sekondi-Takoradi (Ghana) were approved for CFF support. 

The participants shared updates highlighting collaboration opportunities across Asia: The Gaia Climate Loan Fund announced its first close; with 70% of the Fund dedicated to adaptation and 30% to mitigation. The Fund’s eligibility extends across 19 countries, including India, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Mongolia. CDP’s Global Snapshot Report 2025 revealed over $100 billion in urban climate finance needs, stressing finance support for projects at the early stage.  

CDIA is advancing six studies focused on urban development, water supply and sanitation, and e-mobility projects. ICLEI offers a portfolio of early- and mature-stage projects and will launch its call for proposals in May. Gap Fund shared initiatives on energy efficiency and waste management in Uzbekistan, Thailand, and Malaysia; while Urban Act is supporting secondary cities in Asia, with new diagnostic and climate budgeting tools developed. Collectively, these updates indicate strong potential for collaboration in advancing climate-resilient urban infrastructure across the region.  

Looking ahead, the participants plan to have a strong presence at the 13th World Urban Forum on 17-22 May in Baku, Azerbaijan, proposing to jointly host investor roundtables and thematic events on housing, circular waste management, adaptation, governance, and finance. Applications for partner-led events were due for consideration during the 2nd pipeline exchange.