Our Approach
At the heart of the CARFF (Christian Aid Resilient Futures Fund) is venture philanthropy, using philanthropic capital not just to spend, but to build, de‑risk and sustain. We support enterprises over time by blending finance with technical assistance, governance support and impact learning. Success is measured by long‑term outcomes, not short‑term outputs.
Philanthropic capital allows the CARFF to:
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Absorb early risk and provide flexible, patient funding.
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Crowd in co‑investors and catalyse larger flows of capital.
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Stay committed through volatility and market disruptions.
The result is impact that endures, rather than evaporates when funding cycles end.
<<< Access to power is essential - that’s why micro-grids are the innovation and investment of choice.
How We Invest
The CARFF operates a mixed and blended portfolio, designed to balance impact, risk and sustainability. Our capital may be deployed through concessional and soft loans, equity and quasi‑equity instruments, guarantees and risk‑sharing mechanisms. This flexibility allows us to meet enterprises where they are, rather than forcing them into unsuitable financial structures. Our investment approach can evolve through phases; partnering with established fund managers initially, then increasing direct investments as our own pipeline and capacity grow.
Chipo Madembe (27) carries a crate of tomatoes she has harvested from her farm. >>>
Investment DNA
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Impact‑first orientation, with financial sustainability as a means, not an end.
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Long‑term time horizons, reflecting the slow nature of adaptation and system change.
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Focus on resilience, adaptation and inclusive economic participation.
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Geographic focus predominantly on Africa, but building capacity to expand responsibly.
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Transparent reporting and risk management, overseen by an independent board and investment committee.
Returns are not pursued at the expense of impact. Impact is not pursued without financial discipline.
<<< Newlife Leatherworks Chairlady, Joymore Chiripanyanga (30) holds a pair of boots the group made.
What We Invest In
The CARFF focuses on enterprises and initiatives that strengthen climate adaptation and resilience; create inclusive and decent employment; support smallholder farmers, women and marginalised communities; and build local economic ecosystems capable of withstanding shocks.
This may include:
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Climate‑resilient agriculture and food systems.
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Water, energy and nature‑based solutions.
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Enterprises providing climate adaptation services.
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Inclusive finance and market access platforms.
We prioritise models with replication potential High job creating climate conscious industries and system‑wide relevance.
Imarisha Kilimo project run by Christian Aid partner Beacon of Hope in Dagoretti, Nairobi, Kenya. >>>
