Biodiversity loss is a pressing global concern with only 16% of the required funding accessible. In 2021, Axum staff investigated and launched the Biodiversity Investments – Researcher & Accelerator (BIRA), Africa’s First Biodiversity Accelerator, which aims to bridge the staggering US$ 700 billion funding gap, connecting on-the-ground initiatives and investors. BIRA works in partnership with FSD Africa Investments, the African Leadership University’s School of Wildlife Conservation, CreditNature, Xilva, Dalberg Catalyst, and Axum.
A key challenge in attracting investments in the sector lies in the complexity of measuring biodiversity and developing financing instruments. BIRA aims to simplify the investment process for funders through its innovative approach.
Our groundbreaking solution involves supporting biodiversity research and accelerating investments. We conduct research to inform decision making across various stakeholders that support investments. In addition, the accelerator serves as a catalyst for driving high-quality African investments and credits to the market. BIRA ensures that funders can confidently invest in biodiversity conservation projects by identifying pipeline opportunities, conducting rigorous due diligence, enhancing investor readiness, marketing and promoting credits, and providing advisory services on governance and organizational processes.
BIRA has proudly launched its inaugural cohort recipients. With a promising pipeline of over 10 organizations for the next accelerator, BIRA is poised to catalyze transformative change in biodiversity conservation efforts across Africa and beyond.
Axum plays a systems orchestrator role across coalition partners, ensuring the initiative’s effective implementation. We also offer strategy advisory to the companies in the accelerator, supporting them in identifying viable business models that can unlock commercial investments. Once companies are investor-ready, we support them in developing investor materials and facilitate engagements with potential funders.