Countdown begins for Forum website: just 30 days left

On Thursday, 15 May, 2025, an annual forum titled 'Place-based Investing - Harnessing Institutional Capital for Regional Growth' will take place at The Conduit in London's Covent Garden. The event, hosted by an unspecified organization, aims to bring together industry leaders to discuss how capital can be a catalyst for growth, resilience, and social progress at a local and regional level.

The forum's agenda will delve into trends shaping place-based investing, including net-zero efforts, affordable housing, inclusive growth, climate and nature-based investment strategies, and their benefits for local communities. Speakers at the event include Lorna Pimlott, Managing Director, Local Authorities, National Wealth Fund; George Graham, Director, South Yorkshire Pensions Authority; Diandra Soobiah, Director of Responsible Investment & ESG Integration, Nest; James Broderick, Deputy Chair, Impact Investing Institute; Vanessa Morphet, Head of Social Impact, Church of England; Laasya Shekaran, Director, Pensions for Purpose; Anna Shiel, Chief Investment Officer, Better Society Capital; and Kim Foley, Associate Director, Investor Relations, New Forest.

In addition to the forum, several significant developments have been announced in the realm of responsible and impact investing. Finnfund, a development finance institution, has announced a €80m first close of a digital access impact fund. This fund aims to improve digital services and access in underserved communities.

Aegon AM, a global asset manager, has launched a climate transition bond fund. This fund focuses on investments that support the energy transition and align with the goals of the Paris Agreement.

JICA, the Japanese International Cooperation Agency, has invested $40m in Aavishkaar Capital's supply chain fund. This investment is part of JICA's efforts to promote blended finance and support the impact ecosystem.

The event's website provides more information and registration options for those interested in attending. The forum will run from 2pm to 6pm at The Conduit, located in London WC2H 9JA. The keynote speech will be delivered by Dr. Maria Hoffmann.

This forum promises to be a valuable opportunity for industry professionals, investors, and policymakers to discuss and explore the potential of place-based investing in driving regional growth and social progress.