3rd Pipeline Exchange Underscores Shared Commitment to Strengthen Urban Investment Pipelines

July 29, 2026

The 3rd pipeline exchange, convened on 3 June by ADB–CDIA and the Cities Climate Finance Leadership Alliance (CCFLA), brought together eight project preparation facilities (PPFs) and advisory organizations to jointly address critical gaps in project readiness, institutional capacity, and upstream coordination.  

Opening the session, CDIA Fund Manager Edkarl Galing emphasized that the fragmented approach to project development continues to limit the ability of cities to deliver infrastructure at scale. He called for stronger collective action across institutions, noting that partnerships among organizations are vital to building robust and bankable pipelines.  

“Collaboration is no longer optional—it is essential if we are to strengthen the quality and impact of urban investments and deliver projects at the scale cities need,” said Edkarl Galing. 

A key highlight of the exchange was a presentation by WRI India, which showcased a pipeline of over 1,000 climate-related projects across 44 cities in Maharashtra. These projects span multiple sectors, reflecting a shift toward integrated solutions that link infrastructure, climate resilience, and economic development. The initiative also demonstrated innovative approaches to financing, including pooled funding mechanisms designed to help smaller urban local bodies access capital.  

Participants also discussed persistent challenges, including limited data utilization, revenue constraints, and difficulties in financing adaptation-focused projects. In response, several organizations shared emerging tools and initiatives to support project diagnostics, pipeline development, and climate action planning.  

The exchange concluded with a shared commitment to deepen collaboration and accelerate the transition from project concepts to implementation-ready investments, positioning project preparation facilities as critical enablers of sustainable urban development.