FMO (Netherlands Development Bank)

The FMO is a Dutch development bank that invests in private‑sector projects across emerging and developing markets. Since 1970, it has focused on sectors with high development impact: agribusiness (food & forestry), financial institutions, and energy.

FMO supports agribusiness along the entire value chain. It finances crop and livestock production, processing, storage, trade, logistics, and export operations. Moreover, it promotes sustainable land use, climate‑smart agriculture, and ecosystem protection.

FMO offers flexible financing tools. These include long‑term loans, equity investments, mezzanine finance, working capital, and local‑currency funding when possible. It also leverages blended finance and public‑private partnerships to lower risk for high‑impact projects.

One recent example of FMO’s impact is its 2024 syndicated sustainability‑linked loan to ETG Group. The loan, worth USD 394 million, supports sustainable agriculture and processing operations in Africa. It is structured with clear sustainability key performance indicators, including inclusion of smallholder farmers and reduction of carbon emissions.

FMO also partners with global institutions such as FAO to enhance financing access for smallholder farmers, SMEs, and rural micro‑enterprises. A pilot under this partnership targets Kenya, aiming to strengthen agribusiness management, agro‑ecological practices, and reduce post‑harvest losses.

Because of its broad mandate and flexible financing approach, FMO is a relevant partner for agribusinesses, cooperatives, and agritech initiatives in Kenya and across Africa. By combining private‑sector investment with social and environmental goals, FMO contributes to sustainable food systems, rural livelihoods, and inclusive agricultural growth.