Aviation’s path to net zero will be shaped not only by innovation in technology, but also by innovation in finance. Though many promising Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and clean energy projects are ready to move forward, there can be challenges with securing the scale of investment they need. ICAO created the Finvest Hub to help bridge this gap by linking vetted projects with potential financiers and partners.
The launch of the Finvest@ETAF portal by ICAO and IRENA represents the first global platform to make these connections, accelerating investment where it can have the greatest impact. It provides some screening, technical assistance, and networking opportunity to accelerate investment in SAF projects worldwide. Finvest does not directly finance projects. Instead, it connects vetted projects with potential financiers and partners, via match making hubs. It can also offer capacity-building support and resources to support project readiness.
ICAO will cooperate with several financing platforms to operationalize the Finvest Hub, with IRENA being the first.
“This launch marks a significant milestone in aviation’s net zero carbon emission journey with the establishment of our Finvest hub,” said ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar. “Our agreement with IRENA focuses on a partnership arrangement to facilitate financial resources through the ICAO Finvest@ETAF portal, for scaling up SAF and other cleaner energy solutions.”
He added that “It is a first-of-its-kind gateway between project developers and financiers” and that “this matchmaking function, using ICAO’s sustainability criteria, helps de-risk investments while ensuring environmental integrity.”
The portal’s launch was a centerpiece of the ICAO Innovation Fair, where Salvatore Sciacchitano, President of the ICAO Council, emphasized that “Innovation is providing the foundation for continued progress and sustainable development for future generations.”
Project developers worldwide are invited to submit proposals to the portal, ensuring a strong pipeline of initiatives from every region. “The success of Finvest@ETAF will depend on a strong pipeline of projects from every region. Working together through Finvest@ETAF, we can achieve our vision of offering green and vibrant air transport to all,” added Salazar.
The Innovation Fair provided a global platform to develop policy ideas and foster partnerships that will underpin progress towards ICAO’s Long-Term Strategic Plan, which envisions zero fatalities and net zero carbon emission air transport for everyone, everywhere by mid-century.
The event featured dynamic panels and hands-on demonstrations covering advanced air mobility, digitalization, automation, and sustainable fuels.
The Fair also highlighted the essential role of youth and diversity in driving aviation’s transformation, with the ICAO Innovation Competition showcasing bold, youth-led solutions.
Looking forward, the discussions at Fair will inform states’ deliberations on binding resolutions on innovation and sustainability at the ICAO Assembly, which opens tomorrow at the organization’s headquarters in Montréal.